Chamber headquarters dedication is Oct. 17
The Anderson County Chamber of Commerce will hold a dedication ceremony for its new headquarters at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at 500 N. Charles Seivers Blvd. in Clinton, following nearly three years of fundraising that generated $1,175,695 in contributions from individuals, businesses and industries throughout the county.
The new building honors the chamber’s founders 93 years ago and the community leaders and businesses that continue to support its work in economic development, community partnerships and preservation of Anderson County’s history.
The facility will be named the William “Bear” Stephenson Family Chamber Building, recognizing the lifelong Anderson County resident and his family. Stephenson built the successful Stephenson Realty and Auction business in Clinton, now in its 43rd year. He is known throughout the region as an auctioneer who frequently donates his time and talents to nonprofit organizations to help them raise funds.
In gratitude for the support of his community and family, Stephenson is donating $1 million to the Anderson County Chamber Foundation to support the new headquarters.
“The chamber is a vital part of economic development and economic activity in the community,” Stephenson said.
“My parents and my brother have passed away, so I decided to make a major gift to the chamber. I’m leaving it to the future of Clinton and Anderson County. I’m just glad I could help.”
The new chamber headquarters stands on land donated by Joe Hollingsworth Jr., CEO of The Hollingsworth Companies, an industrial real estate development and construction firm.
The 1.35-acre site sits at the corner of Charles Seivers Boulevard and Weaver Street, a prominent location on one of Clinton’s busiest commercial corridors.
“The new building and location are a clear statement about Clinton’s and Anderson County’s future economic destiny,” Hollingsworth said. “I’m proud to be a small part of helping Bear and Rick (Meredith, chamber president and CEO) create this foundation for the future of business and industry in Anderson County.”
For more information, see the chamber’s website at andersoncountychamber.org.