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Members and Supporters,
As we reflect on the past month, one thing is clear—the strength of this Chamber is in the way our community shows up. From meaningful connections at events and powerful moments of visibility to member milestones and new partnerships, April has been a strong reminder of what we’ve built together over the past decade.
As we continue celebrating a Decade of Impact, we’re not only honoring that progress—we’re building on it as we head into one of the most visible and impactful seasons of the year.
Enjoy this latest update from the Chamber as we reflect back on a powerful month of connecting members and community. Plus, we highlight Maureen Maiuri, Chamber Operations Manager and her reflection of what the Chamber's 10-Year Anniversary means to her.
In community,
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Tammi Wallace (she/her)
Co-Founder, President & CEO
Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce
Not a member yet? There’s never been a better time to get involved! Join now.
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10 Years of Growth: The Chamber's
Journey and Mine
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Behind every organization that grows into something meaningful is a group of people who quietly, consistently, and wholeheartedly invest in its success. For the Chamber, one of those people is Maureen Maiuri. Over the past decade, Maureen has been more than a team member — she has been a steady force behind the scenes, helping shape the Chamber during its earliest days and supporting its growth into the thriving organization it is today.
What began as professional support through an external partner organization quickly became something more: a true mission match. Through long hours, countless events, and a deep commitment to the community we serve, Maureen has helped build the infrastructure, relationships, and culture that make the Chamber what it is today. As we celebrate a Decade of Impact, we are incredibly grateful for the dedication, sacrifices, and heart she has poured into this work.
In her own words below, Maureen reflects on what the Chamber’s 10-Year Anniversary means to her.
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Pride In Business Celebration Luncheon + After Party — Sponsorship Opportunities
As we celebrate the Chamber’s Decade of Impact, Pride In Business 2026 returns as our flagship Pride Month celebration on Friday, June 12, at the Hilton Americas-Houston. This will be one of the most visible moments of our milestone year. With more than 1,000+ business and community leaders expected, this event offers unparalleled visibility for sponsors committed to LGBTQ+ economic empowerment.
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Attend
Join us for an unforgettable day of connection, recognition, and community.
🎟️ Tickets Now Available
Early Bird Deadline: Friday, May 15
| | | Congratulations to the 2026 Pride Houston Grand Marshals | | Way to go! Congratulations to the Chamber Members below who were recently announced as 2026 Pride Houston Grand Marshals. | | | | Female Identifying Grand Marshal | | Male-Presenting Grand Marshal | | |
Mandy Giles
Founder
Parents of Trans Youth
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Ashley Barnes
Wellness Program Manager
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
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Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr.
CEO
Elation Physical Therapy
| | Distinguished Grand Marshal | | Distinguished Grand Marshal | | Distinguished Grand Marshal | | |
Jack Berger
Institutional Giving Officer
the Montrose Center
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Brad Pritchett
CEO
Equality Texas
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Kennedy Loftin (posthumous)
the Montrose Center
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Foundations of Impact:
Honoring Our Inaugural Partners, Inaugural Members and Founding Members
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Every milestone has a beginning—and ours was made possible by partners and members who believed in the Chamber before it became what it is today. As we celebrate a Decade of Impact, we are honored to recognize the Inaugural partners, Inaugural members, and Founding members who joined in year one and helped us build this strong foundation.
This month, we are highlighting Chevron, Accendeo, and Gonzalez Olivieri LLC.
| Chevron - Inaugural Impact Partner | | Accendeo, LLC - Inaugural Member | | Gonzales Olivieri LLC — Inaugural Member | | As we celebrate this milestone anniversary year, we extend our deepest gratitude to Chevron, Accendeo, Gonzalez Olivieri LLC, and all of our inaugural partners, inaugural members, and founding members. Your belief in this Chamber from the very beginning helped turn vision into reality. Because of these members, we are stronger. Bolder. Unstoppable. Together. | | |
Recently, Chamber Co-Founder, President & CEO, Tammi Wallace visited with member, SalonTrose. The salon has been a member of the Chamber since 2022. Thank you to Owner/Stylist Meagan Kuharski for the long-time support of the Chamber.
SalonTrose is a "Salon For All".
Woman-owned.
Inclusive.
Education-driven.
Custom color, cuts, extensions, barbering + organic tanning in the heart of Montrose.
Thank you to the owner, Meagan Kuharski, for the hospitality and for your longtime support of the Chamber.
Learn more about the salon at https://www.salontrosehtx.com/.
| | | | | Congratulations to Chamber Impact Partner Hilton Americas-Houston on receiving the 2025 Connie Award, Hilton's highest honor for excellence, recognizing standout performance, guest satisfaction, and service across the portfolio. | | Congratulations to Chamber Member PromoPrint Group on their 15 Year Milestone Award! | | | | | |
This month, Chamber Member Gristworkz was featured in OutSmart Magazine in an article titled Brewing Up an Inclusive Vibe at Gristworkz. The brewery is an LGBTQ+ owned business pairing up "craft beer with food, cocktails, and community."
👉 Read the article
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Chamber and Inaugural Member, Michael's Cookie Jar, is also highlighted in OutSmart Magazine's March issue. Read more about owner Michael Savino's background, his focus on classic flavors, and what keeps customers coming back time and time again.
👉 Read the article
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Raed (l) and Carlos Gonzalez
(Photos by TALIAFERRO PHOTO + FILM)
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Modern Family in the Making
Recently, Raed Gonzalez, with Chamber Inaugural Member Gonzalez Olivieri LLC, and his husband, Carlos, were highlighted in OutSmart Magazine. Author David Clarke talks to them about how they met and their journey to becoming fathers.
👉 Read the article
| | Congratulations to Cari Middaugh, with Chamber Hospitality & Tourism Member, Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center, for her recent recognition as Manager of the Quarter! 👏 | | | Do you have some good news to share? From time to time, the Chamber highlights significant accomplishments, big milestones and other good news about our Members and Corporate Partners. Please submit news about your member business via the form below. | | |
We’re proud to officially launch the Houston Area L.O.V.E. Survey — LGBTQ+ Opinions, Voices, and Experiences.
This is the first comprehensive, community-driven survey designed to establish a baseline understanding of LGBTQ+ life across the Greater Houston region — and we need your participation.
The L.O.V.E. Survey is a collaborative effort led by the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with theKinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University and the Montrose Center, with support from more than two dozen LGBTQ+ organizations across the region.
This confidential survey explores topics that shape everyday life for LGBTQ+ individuals across the Greater Houston region, including:
- Healthcare access and mental health
- Workplace culture and economic security
- School experiences and housing stability
- Social connectedness, basic needs, and discrimination
This is a pilot year, laying the foundation for long-term, repeatable research that will help ensure LGBTQ+ people are seen, counted, and better served across Greater Houston.
| | Rooted in Pride: How the HOPE Act and Donate Life Month Are Growing a More Inclusive Future | | |
As we recognize Donate Life Month, we’re proud to partner with one of our newest members, LifeGift, to share why this moment matters—highlighting the life-saving impact of organ, eye, and tissue donation, the progress toward greater inclusion, and how each of us can play a role in giving the gift of life.
For many, this message resonates deeply. But for individuals and communities historically impacted by stigma or exclusion—especially within the LGBTQ+ community—this moment carries an even deeper significance. It’s not only about raising awareness, but also about recognizing progress, expanding access and ensuring that the gift of life is truly inclusive. One example of that progress is the HIV Organ Policy Equity (HOPE) Act, a transformative piece of legislation that has reshaped what is possible in organ donation.
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Did you know that one of the valuable membership benefits is the ability to post open job opportunities on the Chamber Jobs Board? Plus, we regularly promote listings featured on the Chamber Job Board to help expand your reach.
Posting a job is quick and easy through the Member Info Hub. Don’t miss out—take advantage of this benefit to connect with talented candidates within the Chamber community and beyond.
| | To help you prepare for the upcoming 2026 elections, we’re proud to share trusted, nonpartisan voter resources from Chamber Member, the League of Women Voters of Houston. Thank you to the League for providing the valuable voter information resources below. | | | | |
First Friday Meet & Eat at Traveler's Cart
It was another fantastic First Friday Meet & Eat with our host, and new Chamber Member, Traveler's Cart. Thank you for hosting!
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Connect with the Chamber - The Woodlands
This month, we gathered in The Woodlands for Connect with the Chamber—and it was exactly what makes this community so powerful.
From new faces to familiar ones, the room was filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and a shared commitment to showing up for one another. This is where it starts—building relationships that turn into opportunities, collaborations, and impact across Greater Houston.
A special thank you to Chamber Member Conduit Coffee for hosting us and creating such a welcoming space for connection.
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3rd Thursday Breakfast
With 150+ attendees in the room, the energy, conversations, and connections at our 3rd Thursday Breakfast this month were a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of this thriving community.
A special thank you to our featured speaker, Jim Szczesniak, A.A.E., Director of Aviation for the Houston Airport System (HAS), for sharing valuable insights on the future of Houston’s airports—from major modernization projects to long-term growth shaping our global city.
We’re deeply grateful to our sponsor, PromoPrint Group, and congratulations on their incredible 15-Year Milestone Anniversary! Your continued support and impact in our community do not go unnoticed.
| We were also honored to recognize National Donate Life Month, alongside our newest member, LifeGift, reminding us of the life-saving impact of organ, eye, and tissue donation. | | |
Show Your Pride Open Studio Photo Shoot - April 18, 2026
We finished up our Show Your Pride Photo shoots. Thank you to everyone who participated this year. Check out the photos at showyourpridecampaign.com.
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Show Your Pride Open Studio Photo Shoot - April 23, 2026
It's been an amazing two months capturing our community for the Show Your Pride Photo campaign. Thank you to Sesh Coworking for hosting the photo shoots again this year. Check out the photos at showyourpridecampaign.com.
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Show Your Pride Open Studio Photo Shoot - April 27, 2026
Our last Show Your Pride Photo shoot included having KHOU 11 on-site to interview some of our participants. Keep an eye out for the Pride Month segment on Great Day Houston in June. Check out the photos at showyourpridecampaign.com.
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Out & About Mixer Co-Hosted by the British Consul General in Houston, Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, Houston Bar Association LGBTQ+ Committee, and Lambda Legal
It was a powerful night of collaboration bringing together three leading organizations together with the British Consulate Houston. We welcome the new Consul General, Richard Shackleton MBE, and his husband Mr. Pedro Ruiz, to Houston. We are proud to call the British Consul General in Houston one of our longtime International Partners.
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BE A PART OF OUR UPCOMING EVENTS!
The Chamber calendar is regularly updated, so bookmark it! We are continually updating the calendar with events so check back often. Our Event Calendar provides the details and all you have to do is register. We hope you'll join us - as always, we'd love to see you! We have so many ways to engage and be involved every month.
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Meeting with Traci Nolen at HGAC
Chamber Co-Founder, President & CEO, Tammi Wallace, along with Chamber Member Jackie Aguilera, with jagEDsolutions, met with Traci Nolen, Principal Industry Liaison, with the Houston-Galveston Area Council, Gulf Coast Workforce Board - Workforce Solutions. Great things ahead!
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Houston Business Journal VIP Reception for Community Leadership Awards
We joined the Houston Business Journal for a VIP Reception for their inaugural HBJ Community Leadership Awards. We are honored to be recognized this year as a Community Impact Award Honoree.
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Houston Business Journal Community Leadership Awards
We were honored to be recognized by the Houston Business Journal as part of their inaugural Community Leadership Awards.
To be included alongside so many incredible individuals and organizations making a difference across Houston is truly meaningful.
We’re also proud to serve as a Community Partner for this year’s awards—continuing our commitment to uplifting those who are leading with purpose and creating lasting impact across our region.
Thank you to the Houston Business Journal for your partnership and for shining a spotlight on the leaders and organizations helping move Houston forward.
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Houston Rockets Pride Night
A heartfelt thank you to the Houston Rockets—a longtime Chamber Impact Partner—for recognizing the Chamber on the court during Pride Night as we celebrate our 10-Year Anniversary. Being acknowledged in that moment—on court, in front of so many—is something we won’t forget.
What made the night even more special was seeing our Chamber members woven throughout the experience:
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DJ Crazy V bringing the energy
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The Gay Fan Club who supplied the Rainbow Fans
- A powerful moment recognizing veteran Naomi Scales, with Chamber Member MarFran Cleaning, and her wife Marilyn Jordan
We are so proud to once again partner with the Houston Rockets on Pride Night and to engage our Chamber Members in game activations. This is what it looks like when business and community come together in meaningful, visible ways.
Thank you to the Rockets for your continued partnership and for creating space where our community is celebrated—loudly and proudly.
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Chamber Night at Houston Astros
Let's try it! We decided to try a "Chamber Night" with longtime Impact Partner, the Houston Astros. Not Pride Night...but just a night at the game, together, and we had 88 members and guests show up! And...on top of all the fun...the Astros beat the Colorado Rockies.
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AJC Dinner
We joined the American Jewish Committee for a moving evening, "AJC Uncomfortable Conversations with Emmanuel Acho." The author of the book, "Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew," brought powerful insight on connecting in a challenging world.
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Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon
We are always honored to be included in the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon—an incredible gathering that reflects the strength, leadership, and impact of Houston’s Latino business community.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Laura Murillo for her fearless leadership and for always making space for collaboration and connection. We’re grateful for all she and her team do to move our city forward.
And thank you to Chamber Impact Partner Shell USA for hosting us at your table—we truly appreciate your partnership and support.
This is what it looks like when business and community come together.
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Walk to End HIV
We were proud to stand with our community at the Walk to End HIV alongside Chamber Member Allies In Hope Houston.
Thank you to everyone who showed up to walk with us—and to the incredible volunteers who gave their time and energy to staff our table.
We’re especially proud to call Allies in Hope a nonprofit member of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. Their impact in our community is powerful, and we’re grateful to walk alongside them in this work.
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Connecting!
It's always great to connect with our elected officials and their amazing staffers! Chamber Co-Founder, President & CEO, Tammi Wallace, met with Bricen Whitaker, Outreach Director, with the office of Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. She has been an outstanding champion for the Chamber over the past ten years and a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
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Houston Dynamo Soccer Celebration Unveil
Thank you to the Houston Dynamo & Dash Owner, Ted Segal, for the invitation to attend the Houston Dynamo Soccer Celebration Unveil at Shell Energy Stadium.
As Houston prepares to take center stage during the FIFA World Cup, this special gathering offered a first look at how the teams plan to bring the energy and passion of the world’s game to their unique venue in the heart of East Downtown.
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Legacy Pasadena Southmore Clinic Ribbon Cutting
Our team joined Chamber Impact Partner, Legacy Community Health, for the ribbon-cutting on their beautiful new clinic in Pasadena.
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Balloon Kings Grand Opening
Congratulations to Chamber Member Balloon Kings on their Grand Opening this month!
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⭐ Share Your Chamber Experience on Google!
Have a great experience with the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce? 🌈
We'd love your feedback! You can also help others discover our work by leaving a quick Google Review! Your feedback not only supports our mission—it helps more businesses, organizations, and community members find and connect with the Chamber.
👉 Leave a Review on Google
Your voice helps amplify the impact of our incredible community. Thank you for taking a moment to share your experience! 💜
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NOT A CHAMBER MEMBER? JOIN TODAY!
With almost 600 members, it’s a great time to be part of our growing and thriving Chamber community! Learn more about membership benefits and levels.
| | You’re Part of Our Story — Help Us Celebrate 10 Years | |
As we mark the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce’s 10-Year Anniversary, we’re reflecting on the people, businesses, and partners who made this decade of impact possible. Your support, engagement, and belief in building an economy where everyone belongs have shaped the Chamber’s growth, influence, and reach across Greater Houston.
We would be honored if you’d share a short testimonial about your experience with the Chamber. Your story may be featured as part of our 10-Year Anniversary celebration—helping us honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.
👉 Submit your testimonial and be part of our story
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As we look ahead to Pride Month and beyond, we invite you to lean in—show up, engage, and be part of what comes next. Whether it’s attending an event, sharing your story, supporting fellow members, or stepping into the spotlight at Pride In Business, your presence matters. This is how we continue building an economy where everyone belongs—together.
As we move forward in this milestone year, we remain focused on what matters most—creating opportunity, strengthening connections, and ensuring our members and community continue to have a voice in the economic future of our region. Thank you for being part of this journey. Your engagement, leadership, and support are what make this work possible. Together, we will continue building on a decade of impact—and shaping what comes next.
Ten years ago, we were fighting for visibility.
Today, we are shaping economic conversations.
Tomorrow, we build even greater impact.
Thank you for being part of this journey — whether as a founding member, a new member, a sponsor, a volunteer, or a partner. Your engagement fuels this work.
We are proud of the past decade.
We are energized for the next.
Stronger. Bolder. Unstoppable. Together.
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SPEND WITH PURPOSE
Choosing where you spend your dollars is one way to show support for LGBTQ+-inclusive businesses in our community.
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