GRAVETTE -- Steve Harari, president of the Greater Gravette Chamber of Commerce, has announced his resignation from the position, effective Dec. 31. Harari said he would be stepping down to focus on his business, Narrow Path Advisors, which works with a range of area businesses and organizations.
He will also be resigning as co-chairman of the Gravette 2030 Vision steering committee, member of the Western Benton County Alliance core leadership committee and chair of the Workforce Development sub-group and advisory board member of the APSRC/HIRED Program, all of which are groups he was serving on behalf of the chamber.
Harari's announcement read, in part, "I'm stepping down primarily because the commitment level and performance requirements for the chamber president exceed what is reasonable to expect from an unpaid volunteer. We've added numerous new programs this past 18 months, programs specifically aimed at filling identified needs in the business community and community at large. These programs require strong leadership to help Gravette anticipate and prepare for the growth in NWA that is coming our way. I have little doubt that at some future time, there will be a paid president leading the Gravette Chamber."
Harari said he hopes to remain involved in the community and encourages chamber members and community friends to continue supporting the other chamber officers, Alaina Carlton, secretary and office administrator, and Sundee Hendren, treasurer. He encouraged anyone interested in being considered for the chamber president's position to contact him, Alaina or Sundee.
He outlined several accomplishments in the 18 months in which he has served as chamber president. Some highlights included:
Membership has doubled from 35 to over 70
Attracted over a dozen new members from outside Gravette and Hiwasse
Hosted or sponsored over 60 in-person events
Launched Back to School Appreciation Days and student career workshops with the Gravette School District
Launched the Gravette App for searching area businesses, jobs, deals and local events with nearly 1,000 downloads
Kicked off the Gravette 2030 Vision program in collaboration with the city
Established strong relationships with the leadership of sister chambers along Highway 59
"This has been a great opportunity for me as a newcomer to Gravette, and I am grateful for the friendships and contacts that have been established with many of you!" Harari said, "Thanks again for all of your support for our chamber!"