Introducing The Hardy County Chamber of Commerce

Celebrating 18 Years of the Hardy County Chamber of Commerce

This past September marked 18 years since the founding of the Hardy County Chamber of Commerce, a milestone that reflects nearly two decades of community collaboration, business support, and local pride.

The story of the Chamber began on September 5, 2007, when ten community-minded individuals: Don Baker, George Tusing, George Banks, Jeff Dearing, Doug Mitchell, Sheldon Arbaugh, Jessica Baker, Peggy Hawse, Tracey Ratliff, and Bill Westfall, gathered at the Ponderosa Steakhouse with a shared vision: to create an organization dedicated to supporting and connecting Hardy County businesses. Along with Curtis Hall, these founding members became the first Board of Directors of what would officially become the Hardy County Chamber of Commerce.

Hardy County Chamber Annual Gala 2024

In those early days, the group worked diligently to move from an interim formation to a fully incorporated Chamber, establishing formal leadership roles such as President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Board Members. It wasn’t always easy, there were questions, concerns, and moments of uncertainty, but perseverance and a shared belief in Hardy County’s potential kept the vision alive.

When speaking with Don Baker, the Chamber’s first President, he shared that planning for the Chamber actually began earlier, in the spring of 2007, with an open community meeting. At that meeting, Bill Loving, then CEO of Pendleton County Bank (now Pendleton Community Bank), offered valuable advice and encouragement drawn from his own experience founding the Pendleton County Chamber of Commerce. His insight helped shape the foundation of Hardy County’s Chamber.

Local Networking Event hosted by the Chamber

Don recalled that the biggest early challenge was simply getting members to join, a common hurdle for new organizations. Fortunately, the Chamber’s first Executive Director, Alecia Sirk, rose to the occasion. Her dedication and enthusiasm helped attract members and solidify the Chamber’s role in the community. One of the Chamber’s early achievements under her leadership was helping to create a Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB); something that could only be established once a Chamber of Commerce existed. This was a major step towards promoting Hardy County as both a business-friendly and visitor-friendly destination.

Another memorable part of those early years was the success of the Business After Hours events. Don described them as well-attended, enjoyable evenings that not only brought members together but also gave the Chamber a visible presence in the county. With an office space established on Main Street, the Chamber quickly became a hub for local engagement.

Second Saturday event at Wardensville Garden Market

Although the physical office has since closed, the Chamber’s mission continues stronger than ever. By visiting members in person and working to revive Business After Hours gatherings, we’re carrying on the founders’ spirit of connection and collaboration. Our goal is to host at least one After Hours event each month, giving our members regular opportunities to network, share ideas, and celebrate the vibrant business community that makes Hardy County so special.

Eighteen years later, the Hardy County Chamber of Commerce remains a testament to what vision, teamwork, and community spirit can accomplish. To those who helped build it from the ground up, and to all who continue to support it today, we say thank you. Here’s to many more years of growth, connection, and community pride.