There is now a Poughkeepsie chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce (HCC), whose goal is to create an international movement promoting holistic, natural and sustainable products, services and solutions. As a group associated with the international organization, the new chapter will promote and support holistic and sustainable professionals and business owners in the Hudson Valley.

The chapter will host a Holistic Happy Hour at 6:30 p.m., February 9, at Angel Aura Spiritual Boutique, in Pawling. Members will bring snacks, and nonmembers can attend for $5. Regular chapter meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. every second Tuesday, at Asian Temptation Fusion, located at 718 Dutchess Turnpike in Poughkeepsie. Meetings are free for HCC members and $10 for nonmembers. The February 12 topic will be Preparing Your Tax Documents. “

Poughkeepsie is the perfect place for the Holistic Chamber of Commerce,” says Maryalyce Merritt, chapter president and owner of Akasha’s Journey. “We have a large population here and a community that really values those products and services. It’s time for us to come together and show the standard of integrity and professionalism we bring to the work we do. I see association with the international organization as a natural partnership for our vibrant and growing holistic business community. We are in the service business, yet we are still hidden. That marketing aspect is where I really see a need for support. The HCC offers that.”

All potential professional and business members must submit references before being accepted for chapter membership, she says.

The HCC is an international organization that brings consumers together with holistic and eco-friendly options. There are almost 1,500 professional HCC members throughout North America. All members are reference-checked prior to being represented in the online Member Directory (HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com).

For more info about the Poughkeepsie chapter of the HCC, visit HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/pkpse.