May I promote my business and/or services to fellow CWC members?
CWC Policies prohibit direct marketing to and mass solicitation of our members. We try hard to protect our members from receiving unsolicited emails, etc. as a result of being listed in our directory, especially because all of our members are businesswomen, and, therefore, have some sort of value proposition to pitch to fellow members. We know from experience that this type of activity, if left un-checked, can discourage members from joining or continuing their membership. This policy extends to our events/activities which we dub 'solicitation-free zones', again, to protect our members and their guests from unsolicited appeals.

The organization does seek to support our members in their various personal and professional pursuits. This is accomplished primarily through relationship building with fellow members. A natural outcome of friendships formed is an interest in one another's professional pursuits. It is not uncommon for members to turn to each other when in need of specific services or professional advice. Members are encouraged to browse our CWC online directory, which sorts members by industry affiliation for easy access when looking for professional and business contacts. 

How does the CWC select its program ideas?
The Program Committee and the Member Relations Committee are responsible for program selections, scheduling events approximately six months in advance. If you have an interesting suggestion for a program, please bring it to the attention of a board member or the executive director. Program ideas are tested against certain criteria; for example, a presentation may not generally be used as a vehicle for selling or marketing goods or services.

How do I become more involved with the CWC?
In 2007, several new committees were formed that rely on CWC member involvement. These include: Membership Recruitment, Member Relations, and Marketing/P.R. In addition, the various Program Chairs look to include members to plan each event. If you have an interest in serving on a particular committee, please contact that committee's Chairperson (listed below the Board of Directors on the website).

I am concerned about attending events and not knowing anyone. Is it hard to become acquainted as a New Member?
It can indeed be uncomfortable to walk into a room and not know anyone, so we want to make that easy for you.  For the first year after joining the CWC, your name badge at events will note that you are a 'New Member'. The entire membership is encouraged to reach out to our newest members and introduce themselves. In addition, our Board of Directors wants to meet you. Please go up to anyone whose name badge identifies her as a 'CWC Board Member' and introduce yourself as a New Member; you will immediately find yourself in good hands!

We also hold New Member Breakfasts on 2-3 occasions throughout the year to introduce our newest members to each other and to the board members. Do try to attend one of these breakfasts when you receive the invitation.