My name is Ben Helt. I own a coffee roasting/retailing business in downtown Raytown, Mo named Benetti’s Coffee Experience. We are in our third year of business, but I have been active in the Raytown Chamber of Commerce since 2002. My involvement prior to Benetti’s was due to my position as the community relations director for Raytown Quality Schools. The transition from non-for-profit employee to local business owner has been a wonderful experience, and has given me the opportunity to have a unique perspective when it comes to community development and economic development in our community. However, I certainly have a lot to learn.
My family and I live in the second home that we have purchased in Raytown, and I sincerely like living and operating a business here. However, I’m not a Raytowner. I did not grow up here, and I think this in important to note. I knowingly moved into the Raytown that we know today. I remember no “glory days” of this first tier suburb. However, I am committed to do my part in creating the next Raytown.
I believe that I fall into a category of young families that are attracted to Raytown because of its diversity, and because of its potential.
I am also the type that doesn’t want to wait for an organization to meet a certain set of standards before I join. If possible, I would rather join and be part of making the changes I feel passionate about.
This blog is meant to serve as a communitcation tool while I serve as the 2010 Chair of the Chamber of Commerce. Since we are a board driven organization, it is easy to have a disconnect between the leadership and the membership. I would like to bridge this gap as much as possible. Here, I will share my current opinion on issues and events, rationale behind some of this year’s initiatives and just general information about our efforts. I am only one member of the part, but what I share here will reflect what I will push toward as I serve in a leadership role.
Feel free to contact me at chamberchair@benettiscoffee.com with any comments or questions.
[...] About Me [...]