By: Jenn Tracz*/CABO’s Executive Director-
Using CABO as an everyday resource
Each month when I sit down to write my column I am always drawn to the multitude of benefits CABO has to offer the businessperson. However, this month I’d like to focus on the many benefits CABO can offer you, the everyday consumer. The buying power of LGBT individuals is expected to hit $800 billion in 2011. That’s a lot of money that we are all spending, so doesn’t it make sense that we spend it at places and with businesses that support equality?
Taking a step back from my leadership role in the CABO organization and placing myself in the shoes of the average LGBT consumer I see the value of spending my money with companies that support me. As I plan for my wedding this summer the CABO member directory has become a resource that I keep close by to help guide me in my purchasing decisions. I’ve successfully found an amazing photographer, a hair salon and several companies to help me with invitations and keepsakes for my guests.
It is gratifying for me to be able to put money into the pockets of businesses that support CABO and support equality. I encourage you to look into your local LGBT chamber of commerce to help you decide whom to do business with. CABO is CT’s LGBT chamber and it is likely the state you live in has one too. To find the chamber closest to you, go to the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce’s website, www.nglcc.org. CABO has great relationships with the surrounding states, which are home to the Greater Boston Business Council (www.gbbc.org) and the NGLCC New York (www.nglccny.org), both amazing LGBT chambers.
CABO’s corporate partnerships include; Aetna, Foxwoods, Murtha Cullina LLP, Comcast Business Class, Clear Channel Radio and The Rainbow Times. Each of these businesses has something great to offer and their commitment and support to the LGBT community is what separates them from the rest. We highly encourage you to do business with one or all of them. As a CABO member there are many great exclusive offers to take advantage of.
* In her role as Executive Director, Jenn is responsible for maintaining and growing membership, developing strategic business partnerships and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization. In addition to being CABO’s executive director, she also is a small business owner specializing in planning, branding, social media and design services.
