COMMITTEES

AFAD is the largest event hosted in Elmore County, annually. This event committee fundraises, organizes and ensures our local Airmen are acknowledged and thanked for their continued service.

2023 Goals:

  • Bring the Mountain Home Air Force Base and local community together for a day of “thanks” and celebration.
  • Provide attractions and entertainment to all that attend.
  • Identify an organization that is affiliated or services military members and their families for donation/grant opportunities.

Past Accomplishments:

  • Named the largest Parade in the State of Idaho.
  • This event draws approximately 10,000 attendees, annually.
  • In 2020, the Air Force Appreciation Day donated $1,760 to the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline to help assist military members and general operations.

Chairperson: Betsy Hiddleston, Elmore County Extension Office

The Business to Business Committee is an organizing committee that focuses on creating opportunities for fostering relationships between members, identifying needs of small business, and providing insight and resources for Chamber events.

2023 Goals:

  • Peer-to-Peer relationship building activities among committee and general membership.
  • Create a strategy to identify small business needs.
  • Define and expand Chamber events and programs.

Past Accomplishments:

  • Served as Chamber Ambassadors, supporting not only the Chamber mission but also ensuring the membership was heard.
  • Revamped the Chamber “Bucks” program to a Chamber Gift Certificate system.
  • Assisted with the planning and execution of events like the Home-Based Business Fair and Shop Small Saturday.

Chairperson: Jennifer Gilbert- Dynamic Gals Boutique

This committee focuses strictly on giving back to underprivileged children during the holiday season. Qualifying families must live in the Mountain Home Area. Each year the committee implements an application process; Giving Tree tags at local stores; and a workshop for gift drop-offs, wrapping and pick-up.

2023 Goals:

  • Increase donations and the number of children served through the program.

Past Accomplishments:

  • In 2019, over 574 children were gifted items including clothing and toys.

Chairpersons: Nancy Thompson, Trinity Mountain Floral & Brenda Frank

*The Military Affairs Committee requires additional membership fees.

In 1980, the Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce established the Military Affairs Committee (MAC). The objective of the committee is to build a rapport with incoming military personnel and leadership. They establish a legislative committee to work with local, state, and federal representatives on “hot-button” items to ensure the needs of Mountain Home Air Force Base are met. Today, the committee is made up of over 70 businesses and still carries on its mission.

REASONS FOR BECOMING A MAC MEMBER:

  • Support Idaho’s military members and gain a better understanding of the economic impact the base has on the State of Idaho.
  • Network with other business owners and socialize with your peers at various functions throughout the year, with a common goal of military interest.
  • A portion of MAC Dues will support efforts and travel expenses for our Political Action Team and the City of Mountain Home Military Liaison. Travel includes trips to Washington, DC to maintain open communication with the Pentagon regarding base realignment, infrastructure, and additional funding.
  • The 366th Fighter Wing Honorary Commander Program shares the 366th Fighter Wing’s mission and accomplishments with community neighbors, particularly business and civic leaders. Each unit’s honorary commander is paired with a unit commander or a member of the wing’s leadership. Being a member of MAC adds strength to an application to become an Honorary Commander by demonstrating commitment and understanding of the need to have a dominant presence of the military within Idaho.
  • Military Affairs Committee membership distinguishes you as a civic and business leader within the Mountain Home community and eligible for:
    • Invitations to attend wing change of command ceremonies
    • Civic Leader Tours
    • MAC Socials, Luncheons and other events.

2023 Goals:

  • Work with the City of Mountain Home Military Liaison, community leaders, and state representatives to secure funding for the MHAFB Water Project.
  • Research and advocate for schooling infrastructure needs.
  • Work with the City of Mountain Home and Base personnel to identify housing needs and potential development projects.

Chairperson: Kelley Thibodeau- First Command

The Travel and Tourism committee promotes regional tourism and manages the Desert Mountain Visitors Center. The committee creates promotional pieces and partners with the surrounding areas to leverage assets and increase overnight stays.

2023 Goals: TBD

Past Accomplishments:Things to Do

Chairperson: Kimberly Mulkey