LGBT Chamber Members, we are here with you through these trying and unprecedented times.
Call us, email us, join us for our many informational webinars, we are here for you. We have
compiled a list of resources for your reference.
LGBT Chamber Members, we are here with you through these trying and unprecedented times.
Call us, email us, join us for our many informational webinars, we are here for you. We have
compiled a list of resources for your reference.
Latest COVID-19 Information– December 14, 2020
Austin-Travis County is currently in Stage 4– November 2020
Order Relating to Notices to Vacate (Travis County) – Sept. 30, 2020
Order Relating to Notices to Vacate (Austin) – Sept. 30, 2020
Health Authority Emergency Rules – August 14, 2020
Stay Home, Mask, and Otherwise Be Safe (Austin) – August 14, 2020
Stay Home, Mask, and Otherwise Be Safe (Travis County) – August 14, 2020
Stay Home, Mask, And Otherwise Be Safe – June 26, 2020
COVID-19 Dashboard Software Update Scheduled for Friday, June 26 – June 25, 2020
Visit the Multi-Media page for informational webinars during the time of Covid-19
STAY HOME – WORK SAFE
ORDER 20200324-007
Supplemental Guidance Based on Executive Order No.GA-14
April 2, 2020
The City of Austin and Travis County have issued a Public Health Order requiring individuals to remain in place at home,with exceptions for essential work and activities. When conducting an allowed activity, people must maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing.
Essential (and some Non-Essential) Businesses
Under the Order, all business must cease operations and remain in place except essential businesses. Essential businesses must comply with social distancing requirements. Essential businesses include:
Grocery stores, farmers’ markets, food banks, convenience stores hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, veterinary offices and other healthcare services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Relating to COVID-19
For Texas Businesses and Community Economic Development Partners
From The State of Texas:
Our priority is the health and safety of Texas residents, local businesses and communities throughout the state. The Office of the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism staff and our community partners are closely monitoring the situation and following the advice of health officials and government agencies. This is a dynamic situation and we will update this information as we find out about new
resources and hear about new policies devised to help businesses cope during and after this crisis. For additional news and resources regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), go to gov.texas.gov/business/coronavirus.
The 883-page bill, titled the “CARES Act,” includes thousands of dollars in direct payments to most Americans, and huge loan packages designed to help keep small businesses and corporations afloat.
Please take a moment to let us know how your business is being impacted By Covid-19 to help us best prioritize our efforts for our members. We are working to continue promoting your compaines but will be going above and beyond as we move through this together.
Texas Workforce Commission – Rapid Response
Contact: rapidresponse@wfscapitalarea.com for Travis County rapidresponse@ruralcapital.net for the surrounding counties of Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano and Williamson to schedule an information session.
Small Business Administration
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) – (@USDOL)
SBA Disaster Recovery Assistance
Join us for the latest information about SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. These sessions will cover the basics of the program, how to apply and where you get get additional help with preparing and applying for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans through the SBA’s website
The information presented on all calls will be the same.
Please join at the date and time best for you.
March 26 | 10 am | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 72234974
March 27 | 2 pm | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 723165179
March 30 | 10 am | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 79129946
March 31 | 10 am | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 26501703 (Spanish)
April 1 | 2 pm | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 366690258
April 2 | 2 pm | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 484237430 (Spanish)
April 3 | 10 am | Skype Call in Link | Conference ID 783528154
Join by phone: +1 210-469-4148
This guide is likely to be updated frequently and all users are encouraged to reference this page for updates.
News from the desk of Council Member Jimmy Flannigan
City of Austin is updating COVID-19 and Austin Public Health webpages around the clock with the latest news, guidance, and declarations related to topics like sanitation requirements and restrictions on bars & restaurants to bans on social gatherings.
COA COVID-19
Austin Public Health
The sites lay out basic information in clear, easy to understand detail. Stay on top of what’s happening in our city to assuage fears and stay informed.
If you have further questions, please call 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000. If you feel unwell, please contact your health provider before going to a clinic, urgent care, or ER.
The Wilco Coronavirus page includes a scroll of links to their news pages and updates. The Williamson Co. & Cities Health District COVID page offers helpful resources for healthcare and food service impact.
Click through the Travis County COVID-19 page for the latest updates and resources.
The Aunt Bertha Social Care Network is a national network that connects people with social services and programs — making it easy to find social services in various communities, for nonprofits to coordinate their efforts, and for customers to integrate social care into the work they already do.
• Aunt Bertha has just launched a COVID-19 -specific page, Find Help to link folks to resources to find food assistance, pay bills, and other free or reduced cost programs that help people affected by the pandemic.
The HD 136 Neighbor to Neighbor Seniors Food & Wellness Program has launched and volunteers and donations needed. The program began as a partnership between the offices of TX State Rep John Bucy, our District 6 office, CM Jimmy Flannigan, and Hill Country Community Ministries.
Until full online infrastructure is set, please contact:
• HCCM via their website
• TX Rep Bucy’s office via info on this Facebook post
H-E-B & Favor #TexansHelpingTexans Effort launched their Senior Support Line See how you can get assistance or support their program:
Seniors can place orders from curated list of essentials via a phone line, the @Favor app, or favordelivery.com/seniors. The line will be staffed with volunteers to accept/process home delivery orders, 9am-1pm. To access, call 1-833-397-0080.
All fees waived for first 30 days, w/ $10 tip for the Favor Runner. Please continue to be patient with these heroic teams as they serve our communities. #TexansHelpingTexans
• Capital Metro & COVID-19 Updates as schedules modify and change
• MetroRail Red Line Updates and changes
Austin Bergstrom International COVID page shares updates on protocol and restrictions
Here are a few sites we’ve been tracking for current food information in Central Texas:
• Austin Takeout Tracker
• Austin Department of Transportation Press Release concerning allowing businesses to request street parking to be converted into to-go pickup spaces.
• Central Texas Food Bank Find Food Now page Immediate food relief and assistance
• H-E-B & Favor #TexansHelpingTexans Efforts and Senior Support Line
On the WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS site:
• WFS Job Seekers assistance site for workers whose employment has been disrupted by economic changes
On the TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION site:
• Unemployment Benefits To apply, please visit here
More JOB SEARCH sites
• WorkInTexas.com The state’s job search website.
• Capital Area Career Centers They have three centers open with limited staffing to assist the public.
Business hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm.
North 9001 N IH 35, Ste 110, Austin, TX 78753
East 3401 Webberville Rd, Bldg 1000, Austin, TX 78702
South 6505 Burleson Rd, Austin, TX 78744
Hiring events at the centers are cancelled until further notice.
On the COA COVID page:
• COA Information for Businesses, Events & Venues is one of the blue boxes at the top of the page. Click to find workplace recommendations, info on gatherings, an FAQ and more.
• Scroll to the bottom of the COA Community Resources page for posters you can print and post in your place of business on every door
On the WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS site:
• WS Layoff Aversion Support Businesses facing layoff or closure, WS offers proactive, business-focused intervention and layoff aversion support.
• WS Precautions for Employers includes CDC’s recommendations for best practices in worksites that must stay open but also encouraging flexible sick leave situations to support workers while dealing with the crisis
On the TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION for Employers site:
• Sign up for TWC Updates
• TWC Precautions for Employers
• The COA COVID-19: Community Resources & Available Services page includes resources for individuals experiencing various challenges with info on No Evictions, Childcare, Housing, Utilities, etc.
• Aunt Bertha Social Care Network
• Bartender Emergency Assistance Program
• Austin Spirit Newsletter (for bar and beverages folks)
Local nonprofit Survive2Thrive (founded and managed by District 6 neighbor Courtney Santana) has been working through the crisis to find suitable accommodations for people who cannot count on their home environment for safe shelter.
A number of control orders and emergency rules have been introduced mandating specified actions aimed at slowing the spread
and reducing the impact of COVID-19.
Order of Control for Mass Gatherings and Critical Infrastructure (Austin) − March 21, 2020
Order of Control for Mass Gatherings and Critical Infrastructure (Travis County) − March 21, 2020
Executive Order relating to COVID-19 Preparedness and Mitigation (Texas) − March 19, 2020
Order of Control Measures for Healthcare Facilities (Austin) − March 13, 2020
Resolution to Ratify Declaration of Local State of Disaster (Austin) − March 12, 2020
Order of Control Measures for nursing homes, assisted living and other long-term care facilities (Austin) − March 11, 2020
Updated 5/7/2020
Review the Austin Economic Injury Bridge Loan Program Frequently Asked Questions for answers to common questions about the loan program.
Visit the Economic Development Department’s Small Business Resource Directory for a list of local, state, federal and community resources. Filter by “Disaster Relief” to find immediate support for your business or non-profit organization impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The City of Austin Economic Development Department Small Business Program provides business training, educational events, and coaching to empower entrepreneurs. SBP is offering virtual online classes and 1-on-1 coaching sessions to small businesses. Visit the Small Business Program website to learn more about our class offering and coaching opportunities.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) resumed accepting Paycheck Protection Program loan applications on Monday, April 27 at 9:30AM CST. This federal loan is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Eligible borrowers can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. Visit the Small Business Administration website to carefully review PPP regulations and guidance.
Review the City of Austin’s COVID-19 page for additional resources and updates on the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Call 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 if you have questions about local orders related to the City’s COVID-19 response
Call 2-1-1 or visit the 2-1-1 Texas website for information on food, health, housing assistance and more.
Released 4/1/2020
New Order Strongly Recommends Critical Infrastructure Facility Requirements – March 21, 2020
COVID-19: Small Businesses Can Apply for up to $2M in Federal Disaster Assistance Loans – March 21, 2020
New Orders to Align COVID-19 Restrictions Statewide – March 20, 2020
Individuals Urged to Monitor Health and Take Temperature to Protect Community from COVID-19 – March 20, 2020
Austin Transportation facilitates food pick-ups amid COVID-19 dine-in closures − March 19, 2020
Austin-Travis County Ramps Up COVID-19 Testing Capacity − March 18, 2020
Austin-Travis County Offers Help for Residents and Businesses During COVID-19 Outbreak − March 17, 2020
Fight to Contain COVID-19 Stepped Up with Temporary Restrictions on Restaurants and Bars − March 17, 2020
Modifications to City operations due to COVID-19 − March 15, 2020
Gatherings of 250+ People Banned to Help Tackle COVID-19 − March 14, 2020
New Advice for Individuals Aware of Contact with COVID-19 Cases − March 14, 2020
Organizers Urged to Cancel Events and Restaurants Mandated to Boost Sanitation to Help Prevent Spread of COVID-19 − March 13, 2020
Austin two positive cases of COVID-19 in Austin-Travis County News Conference − March 13, 2020
Two presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Austin-Travis County − March 13, 2020
City of Austin Utilities suspends disconnects amid COVID-19 − March 13, 2020
Control Order Issued to Combat Spread of COVID-19 among Vulnerable Populations − March 11, 2020
COVID-19 Update: Special events in Austin-Travis County − March 9, 2020
Order of Control for Bars, Restaurants, and Gatherings (Austin) – March 20, 2020
Order of Control for Bars, Restaurants, and Gatherings (Travis County) – March 20, 2020
Executive Order relating to COVID-19 Preparedness and Mitigation (Texas) – March 19, 2020
Order of Control for Bars, Restaurants, and Gatherings (Austin) − March 17, 2020
Order of Control for Mass and Community Gatherings (Austin) − March 15, 2020
Order of Control for Mass and Community Gatherings (Travis County) − March 15, 2020
Food Establishment Rules (Austin)− March 13, 2020
City of Austin local state of disaster / Travis County local state of disaster − March 6, 2020
Mr. Schumann is a founding partner of Savrick, Schumann, Johnson, McGarr, Kaminski & Shirley, L.L.P. He has been practicing law since 1989. Mr. Schumann’s primary focus is on general litigation matters including insurance disputes and insurance coverage matters, commercial and contractual disputes, and personal injury defense. Mr. Schumann appears regularly in state and federal courts throughout Texas.
Owner and operator of Seedlings Gardening, a company she founded in 2011. A native Austinite, Reese earned a master’s degree in architecture from Texas Tech University. She now puts her skills to work designing and installing landscapes with a focus on style and sustainability. Outside of work Reese enjoys exploring the many creative and advocacy opportunities Austin has to offer and spends time with her partner Angela and their three dogs, Ziggy, Star, and Domingo.
Tahjar Roamartinez is recognized as a thought leader in global defense and cybersecurity. She served in the U.S. Army with distinction and retired as an Army Signal (Communication) Officer. With her passion, experience, and training, Tahjar achieves proven results in innovative and robust cybersecurity solutions. As an Army Officer, Tahjar designed and implemented enterprise email services, reporting tools, policies, and processes for the Department of the Army that military personnel continues to benefit from today. Tahjar is the President, Co-Founder, and Chief Executive Officer for CEHT, LLC (joint venture) and Cyber Warfighters Group, Inc a cybersecurity consulting, customized training, and solution firm.
She currently serves as a founding member of the National Security Innovation Council Board of Directors for the State of Texas, Director for Board of Directors for Austin LGBT Chambers/Chair for Supplier Diversity Committee and serves as an Advisory Board Member for the National University System.
“Keys to life’s success is consistency, excellence, and persistence.”
Rich is currently a co-chair of the chamber’s Health and Wellness Committee. The goal of the committee is to make sure our members … and members of the Austin community … have the tools they need to be in good health emotionally and physically. He served on the board for eight years prior to returning to the board in 2021. In seven years of his previous two stints he served as the board’s secretary. Rich is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, He recently retired after 43 years of being a full-time meteorologist.
Rachel Rosen is a seasoned facilitator, coach, and the founder of S.P.A.R.K. She is on a mission to spark and sustain conversations about inclusion and racial equity. As a lesbian in an interracial relationship, her WHY is personal, as she wants her future children to live in a more just, equitable world.
With a Masters from Stanford, as well as extensive training in leadership and organizational development, S.P.A.R.K. experiences are grounded in theory and practice. In her years as a coach and facilitator, Rachel believes that intentional conversations hold space for us to see ourselves in each other’s stories, reminding us that we’re far more alike than we are different—when we choose to truly listen to one another. As a consultant, Rachel and her team partner with organizations to help them make progress on their equity/inclusion goals. They help their clients strategize with an equity lens, check their blindspots, and catalyze equity-centered leadership at every level of their system.
Also, as the founder of an interactive & inclusive game (www.spark4community.com), Rachel and her team also regularly hold space for communities to come together across racial, gender, generational, sexual identity, and cultural differences—engaging in conversations about creating conditions for equity work, counteracting biases, and listening with intentionality.
If you’re looking for support holding space for conversations about inclusion, diversity, equity, intersectionality, or unconscious bias, feel free to check out these two pages and reach out with any questions you may have: https://www.rachelvrosen.com/di-consulting-services/ & http://www.rachelvrosen.com/on-your-stage/
✉️ spark@rachelvrosen.com
💻 Services: www.rachelvrosen.com
💻 Products: www.spark4community.com
Nico Ramsey is a corporate social responsibility professional and a civil rights activist from Austin, Texas. At the municipal, state and federal level, Nico works with Central Texas nonprofits that promote systemic change to break the cycle of poverty, provide access to safe and affordable healthcare and for queer and racial justice and equality.
He serves on the Board of Governors for the nation’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization, The Human Rights Campaign and the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Nico is also affiliated through committee work with the City of Austin’s Corporate Engagement Council, United Way for Greater Austin, ZACH Theatre, Leadership Austin, Vivent Health and Todos Juntos Learning Center.
We look forward to seeing you!
Natalie is an employment and business law attorney and credentialed workplace investigator. Her team of business professionals at the Lynch Law Firm are skilled in employment law, human resources, industrial psychology, and corporate strategy. Along with Chamber board service, Natalie participates actively in animal welfare issues, the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Humane Legislative Network, and her son’s adventures. She brings strong organizational skills and extensive experience with other small and large community organizations. She believes the Chamber provides a safe and empowering arena for LGBT employees and company leaders to better themselves, network, and find resources that align with their outlook in a mutual pursuit of business opportunities. Natalie’s vision for the Chamber is stability and professionalism. She believes the Chamber needs to invest in itself in order to move to the future.
HR Considerations for Small Businesses
Business has been good and now you thinking about expanding, but what are the common pitfalls of adding additional staff to your team? In this training we focus on the following topics:
Making QuickBooks work for you
QuickBooks is a powerful accounting package, but are you using it to your fullest advantage. We will cover how to effectively setup QuickBooks to effectively manage your business, including setting up accounts, queries and reports.
How to promote your new or existing business
Join us as we discuss various methods of promoting your business. We will cover how to promote your website through the use of keywords, web advertising, and design. Additionally, we will discuss various methods of promoting your business in the market.
Lending Made Easy
This panel discussion will include lenders from multiple financial institutions to discuss the lending process for small businesses, common pitfalls, and things to consider as you apply for a small business loan.
Risk Mitigation Through Insurance
We will attempt to answer the age-old question of how much is too much and what is just enough. Mitigating your risk exposures through insurance can be tricky and complicated. This training session will be aimed at providing business owners topics to consider when engaging with insurance brokers to protect their business and assets.
Tax Considerations for New and Growing Businesses
Tax laws are constantly changing, so do you know what steps you can take to reduce your tax liability? This course will focus on changes in the tax codes that may affect your business. We will discuss typical deductions and some common pitfalls that business owners fall into when preparing for tax time. Help you CPA (and potentially reduce your fees) by being properly prepared
Covid-19 Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines are coming out and you have questions. Come meet with Dr’s from Signature Care and Physicians Premier. They will explain the options being presented and what may be best for you.
One year later-Mental Health Resources
Thank you for participating in the Austin LGBT Chamber 2020 Toy Drive!
Gifts Received to benefit Lifeworks Austin and Givens Toy Drive!
With Covid-19 we want to be careful about donation drop-offs.
Drop Off Locations & Phone Numbers:
Signature Care:
5701 W Slaughter Ln, G101 Austin, TX 78749
(512)651-5787
Signature Care:
21315 TX-130 Bldg. 4, Pflugerville, TX 78660.
(512)975-4773
Valerie is a lecturer at the Stan Richards School of Advertising and Public Relations at the University of Texas at Austin. She is a social impact strategist, writer, and consultant specializing in change-related communications–especially in the areas of environmental protection, health, public affairs, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Valerie has spent her career breaking down complex environmental issues into fun, profound campaigns that take creative risks and get results. She cofounded EnviroMedia in 1997, leading as CEO for 22 years with clients that included Vital Farms, Dell, Microsoft, Google, Intel, HP, Daimler, LafargeHolcim, AMD, Tetrapak, and many government and nonprofit organizations. She is Chair-Elect of the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, President-Elect of the League of Women Voters of Austin, and a board member of Austin Habitat for Humanity. Valerie received a Bachelor of Journalism in Public Relations from UT and is teaching two “Integrated Communications Management” classes in the Stan Richards School in Fall 2020.
Adam has been an active member of the LGBT Chamber since 2016 as both a Board Member and Ambassador. He is also an active singing member and committee member in the Austin Gay Men’s Chorus. Professionally, he is the owner of Texas Independent Insurance & Risk Management where he serves as a Risk Manager and Advisor of Insurance Services. He specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and prides himself in working with honesty, integrity, loyalty, and respect. His passion is to help the Chamber grow in membership and grow in support, both inside and outside of the LGBTQIA+ Community. He is honored to represent his community as a leader in the Chamber and looks forward to working hard toward the ever-so-important goal of growing the success of LGBTQIA+ businesses in Austin. Adam also serves on the Board of the Austin Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association as the Vice-President of Sponsorship and is the Treasurer for the Board of Directors of his neighborhood’s owner association. In his free time, Adam loves good food, good conversation, good movies, and playing board games with his friends and family. You might catch him playing a round of golf every now and again – he’ll be the one looking for his ball in the hazards!
With over 18 years of consulting experience, Josh has provided consulting services to clients in a variety of industries, including financial services, manufacturing, energy, transportation, technology, construction, and engineering. Joshua serves on the firm’s National Committee for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), which focuses on scaling the application ERM projects to meet the needs of middle-market clients. In addition, he serves as the regional leader of the firm’s financial institutions practice, focused on driving value through internal audit and loan review.
From hackathons to IPOs to global product launches, I have spent the last 18 years building award-winning marketing programs and teams at technology companies, including Silicon Labs, Jive Software, and National Instruments. I’m obsessed with creating innovative campaigns that measurably impact the 4Rs: reputation, reach, relationships, and revenue.
I have been published in several outlets, including the Harvard Business Review and Wall Street Journal, and a speaker more than 60 events such as Adobe Summit, SXSW, The Federal Reserve, Forrester, and Gartner. I’ve also been included on the following lists: Social Media Club Top 100, Kapost’s 32 of the Texas Marketers to Follow, Traackr’s Top 25 Marketers in Software and Top 25 Content Marketers, and Austin’s SMC Women Kicking Ass.
I’m extremely passionate about communications, equity and education. I’ve contributed to the community as a White House LGBTQ Tech & Innovation Fellow under President Obama, the board vice president of the Texas Interfaith Center for Public Policy, a STEM non-profit Changing Expectations board member, and a Leadership Austin essentials participant.
I’m a proud graduate of The University of Texas, wife to a wonderful partner, and mom to a goofy labradoodle. My superpower is finding the perfect .gif for any situation.
A serial entrepreneur, Becky has spent her career building great businesses, teams and company cultures. In her most recent venture, The Arreaga Agency – Farmers Insurance, Becky along with her sister and business partner Liz, are bringing a fresh, new perspective to insurance. Along with their team of seasoned insurance pros, The Arreaga Agency is dedicated to educating and empowering clients to see insurance as a powerful tool designed to build and protect their best life. In short, to worry less and do more as a result of a comprehensive insurance strategy – Home | Auto | Commercial | Life | Retirement.
Previously, Becky served as agency founder/partner of experiential marketing agency Mercury Mambo. Mercury Mambo specialized in developing targeted shopper and experiential campaigns designed to drive sales at the point “Where Commerce & Culture Collide!”. Clients included some of the top brands on the planet such as Anheuser-Busch, 7-11, Moet Hennessy, Dr Pepper/Seven Up Inc., JM Smucker brands, People en Español Festival, REI, and the Outdoor Industry Association to name a few. Becky currently serves on the National Board of Directors of the College of Mass Communications at Texas Tech University. Becky is an award-winning graphic designer, having won 3rd place in her third-grade fire prevention poster contest.
A dynamic, out-of-the-box leader who tackles one challenge after another. Ms. Cannon is currently the Executive Director of the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce after recently serving as the Vice President of Government Relations with the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce. Cannon also served as a Senior Policy Analyst for the City of Austin. Prior to her work in politics, Ms. Cannon has been a seasoned entrepreneur having spent many years in the Austin startup space. Ms. Cannon served as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Texas State University and has been a guest blogger for CBSNews.com. She has been a featured presenter at various technology events. Cannon graduated from Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Kyle wants to gain a better understanding of the local issues facing the community and be more active in the LGBT community. He has served the Chamber through board service, happy hours and the Large Company ERG Committee. Kyle brings expertise with large company ERG programs and can leverage his connections on the Chamber’s behalf. He believes LGBT businesses help promote equality and acceptance in the city. Kyle’s vision for the Chamber is to help smaller businesses make the right connections to grow. He also wants to encourage more participation with and from LGBT youth to help grow a better tomorrow.
Jason wants to further the impact and reach of the Chamber within Austin metro. He believes that assembling of some of Austin’s well-connected, hardworking, diverse, and well-suited visionary talents can carry the city and the Chamber to new heights. With the backing of his media connections, Jason can help shine an even brighter light on the Chamber. Jason served the Chamber by representing KVUE at the 2018 Proud! Gala. He brings experience with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake Fundraiser in 2016-2017. His operating philosophy is “to whom much is given, much is required” and he tries to live by that every day. He believes LGBT businesses are important to the local economy to provide added, critical, relative, and business savvy support to the LGBT community. Jason’s vision for the Chamber is to help eliminate any sort of negative stigma of LGBT or non-profit organizations or what people negatively think about communication chamber organizations.
Retired Attorney/State Executive turned Transgender advocate/activist. After a 31 year career in Law, Risk Management, Insurance and Executive Management with the State of Texas, Ms. Bow now devotes her time to working for social justice and fostering understanding and acceptance of the Transgender Community.
Chase is a Vice President at MassMutual Southwest, a financial services firm. Having worked extensively with chambers of commerce in the past, Chase was responsible for the creation of our chamber’s Ambassador program. He recently served on the Board of Directors for the Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival. Chase enjoys racing sailboats on Lake Travis where he is an active member of the Austin Yacht Club, volunteering at the Austin Galano Club, and is an avid astrophotographer with the Austin Astronomical Society. He is an alumnus of Tarleton State University and Leadership Austin. His family has lived in Texas since 1835.
Hunter Coleman is a Wealth Management Advisor at Raymond James Financial. Based in Austin, Texas, Hunter operates as a dedicated financial concierge, bringing a deep level of
experience and knowledge to LGBTQ individuals, families, and the specialized physicians he serves. Hunter is designated as an Accredited Asset Management Specialist to assist high net worth clients with portfolios of significant wealth. Hunter is a financial advisor who, in addition to providing traditional advice and guidance, can help clients establish and pursue their unique financial objectives through personalized investment strategies that align with their values. As a fiduciary, Hunter believes in forging lasting relationships built on understanding, trust, advanced ethics, and a heightened level of privacy. Hunter is a former college football player and a graduate of Columbia University in the City of New York. He studied psychology, political science, and classical literature. Hunter serves as a member of the Board of Directors and as a Committee Chairmen for the Austin LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. He is the President of the Columbia University Alumni Association of Austin. Additionally, Hunter serves on the Finance Committee and the Development Committee of AIDS Services of Austin. Hunter was born in Louisiana and has family living throughout the great state of Texas, in New York, and California. He and his partner live in Austin with their rescue dog, Argos.
Experienced Business Owner with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and printing industry. Skilled in networking, leadership, lead generation, marketing, and email marketing. A strong business development professional.
Serving in the Austin homeless community, addiction and mental health industries are her passion outside of the LGBT Chamber.
Originally from the Hill Country of Mason, Texas, Gunner Gardner is well familiar with the areas surrounding Central and West, Texas. After graduating from Granger High School, Gardner took to Alpine, Texas to play Division 3 Collegiate Tennis for Sul Ross State University. While there, he served as the President of The Rotaract Club Alpine, a division of Rotary International. Through Rotaract, Gardner organized several charitable fundraising efforts to support organizations like the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and those affected by tragedies like the Flint Michigan Water Crisis, The Nepal Earthquakes and more. In May of 2017, Gardner graduated Cum Laude and received his Bachelor of Arts in Social Science with honors in History and Political Science. He was most recently named the 2016-17 Community Service Athlete of the Year by the American Southwest Conference and the NCAA.
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