The Gulf Coast Builder’s Exchange (GCBX), a not-for-profit trade organization, has launched the “Proud to Build” campaign to promote and support its diverse group of members.
The campaign will be incorporated across several mediums including the GCBX website, e-mail marketing, social media and member initiatives.
“Our members are an integral part of the economic development of the southwest Florida community, and this campaign will bring their stories to light,” said Mary Dougherty-Slapp, executive director of the Lakewood Ranch-based trade organization. “Regardless of their specific profession within the building community, our members contribute to this region in so many ways – from smart growth initiatives to philanthropic efforts; we are proud of our strong and varied membership and are pleased to promote these efforts to the entire community,” said Dougherty-Slapp.
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In partnership with Sarasota-based public relations firm 360 Degrees PR, the GCBX campaign will feature stories about members and their local history in the region, highlighting why they are proud to be a part of the building community.
“The building industry recruits and retains strong young talent to the area,” said Russ Bobbitt, board chair of the GCBX and Partner/Agent at Purmort & Martin Insurance Agency. “These people are raising their families, paying taxes and volunteering in our community. The building industry certainly has a strong social and economic impact on our region. In addition to that, our members are improving the area by building with environmentally friendly, state-of-the-art structures,” said Bobbitt.
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Member stories will be displayed online at the GCBX website and shared through the Proud to Build Facebook page and Twitter accounts.
“Keep a lookout for the ‘Proud to Build’ phrase to start popping up all over the place – from bumper stickers to banners and shirts,” said Dougherty-Slapp.
The first two members profiled for the campaign were Jon Swift of Jon F. Swift Construction and Nathan Carr with Willis Smith Construction.
“Our building community took Sarasota out of its infancy stage. Back when we were just a beach town everyone emptied out of downtown Sarasota right at 5 p.m. in a race to get home,” said Jon Swift. “Now we’re a thriving, bustling center of employment with a growing economy. A vibrant community leads to tax dollars from new residents for roadways, infrastructure and more, and I’m proud to be one small part of that process,” he said.
The Gulf Coast Builders Exchange was established in 1952 and is a not-for-profit corporation operating as a trade organization. Under the guidance of a volunteer Board of Directors, the organization’s philosophy of “members working with members” has been successful in helping individual members grow. This success has become the foundation for the continued development of the organization.
The GCBX membership is comprised of over 300 companies in Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties. It includes some of the most respected contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, service providers and businesses in construction‑affiliated industries.
