Committee Spotlight: Special Events

Committee Spotlight: Special Events

Memorable moments. Meaningful connections.

IFMA Houston’s Special Events Committee brings members together to build relationships, enjoy time with colleagues, and support meaningful causes. Behind every event is a team of volunteers coordinating the details that help turn chapter membership into lasting connections.

In this spotlight, committee chair William “Will” Martinez and co-chair Sonja Garcia share what goes into planning these gatherings, what makes them rewarding, and how members and companies can get involved.

Meet the People Behind the Events

Will is a facilities manager with Amegy Bank, overseeing facilities in Texas and projects across its sites. In the interview, he shares that he has been part of IFMA Houston for about 15 years and has served as chair or co-chair of the Special Events Committee for the past three years.

Sonja is the marketing manager at RSI. Her interest in networking—and her enthusiasm for bringing people together—made the committee a natural fit. As a newer chapter member, she saw an opportunity to contribute and jumped in to help.

More Than an Event on the Calendar

The committee’s work starts well before event day. Researching venues, coordinating vendors, reaching out to sponsors, and organizing volunteers all take time and teamwork.

The payoff is the opportunity for members to get to know one another beyond their job titles. Will explains that a conversation may not lead to an immediate business opportunity, but those connections can grow into trusted professional relationships and a network of people to turn to for expertise.

“Being a member is one thing, but attending an event is really going to strengthen your membership.”

— Sonja Garcia

Events with Personality and Purpose

For Will, the Clay Shoot holds a special place. The event benefits U.S.VETS Houston, a cause that is personally meaningful to him as a U.S. Army veteran. It was also one of the first events he was tasked with organizing.

Sonja shares her excitement about helping with Haunted Lanes, the chapter’s Halloween event. Costumes, raffle prizes, and opportunities to mingle capture what she enjoys about special events: creating an atmosphere where people can have fun and connect.

Both leaders point to the people as the most rewarding part. For Will, it is seeing volunteers arrive early and work together to make an event successful. For Sonja, it is watching the planning come together and seeing members enjoy themselves.

Help Make the Next Event Happen

You do not have to volunteer at every event to make a difference. Will welcomes members who can help with even one or two events a year. Reach out to the committee leadership to learn how you can contribute.

Companies interested in sponsoring an event can contact Will or Sonja, or email [email protected].

Whether you attend, volunteer, or sponsor, you help create the connections that make IFMA Houston a community.