Since its launch four weeks ago, the Jax Pack Downtown Merchants association has grown to more than 30 participants because of a need, a group co-founder says.
"We're tired of nothing happening for Downtown, so we're going to do something about it. As merchants, we have the ability to make things happen," Jennifer O'Donnell, manager of Chamblin's Uptown bookstore and cafe, said Tuesday.
Ida Metzger, co-owner of Diversions Relaxation & Gifts in the Elks Building and association co-founder, said the effort has quickly grown through communication among participants and potential participants.
The organization's Facebook page is available to all Downtown business owners who wish to promote Downtown as a retail and entertainment destination. The site distributes news and promotions related to Downtown merchants.
"Social media has become a very good source for us," said Metzger.
At the organization's weekly gathering Tuesday, Metzger presented an update on possible marketing and promotion ideas developed by the group over the past four weeks. Metzger said the list of ideas is constantly evolving and the group welcomes feedback from all Downtown businesses.
She said plans are under way for an event aimed at introducing Jax Pack to the entire community to coincide with the unveiling of the historic Seth Thomas clock at Jacobs Jewelers scheduled for April 17.
Improving the cleanliness of Downtown's retail areas also is a priority for the organization.
Metzger said in light of the reduction in services by Downtown Vision Inc.'s Ambassador program, the association is planning a volunteer effort. She said the association has invited HandsOn Jacksonville to become involved.
Downtown Vision is the property-tax funded nonprofit organization created in 2000 by City ordinance to advocate for the urban core.
The organization announced in February reductions in the Ambassador program because of budget restrictions
The Jax Pack founders are considering options for incorporating as a 501c3 nonprofit corporation with the help of attorney Deborah Reid of Rumrell Law, who is providing pro bono legal consultation for the organization.
Officers have not been formally elected, but a core group has formed to move the organization forward.
In the interim, O'Donnell is serving as treasurer, with Metzger assuming the role of spokesperson for the group.
Catherine Lee with Axia Public Relations and Jay Harris, owner of Strght & Nrrw Clothing Boutique, are handling media and public relations.
K. Anthony Boutique owner Katja Barfield is Jax Pack's events coordinator.
O'Donnell said Jax Pack is based on providing to business owners a new avenue for Downtown improvement that is by design different from what has been done in the past.
"This is about Downtown business owners, people who feed their families based on the success and profitability of their business. Downtown Vision has had 12 years. In four weeks, we've grown to more than 30 business owners who are tired of nothing happening," she said.
The next meeting of Jax Pack is scheduled 3 p.m. April 10 at Chamblin's Uptown.
For more information, visit facebook.com/jaxpackdowntownmerchants.
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