Membership Application

What is the Chamber of Commerce and How Does It Work?

       A Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary federation of the business community uniting the efforts of businesses and professional individuals to ensure a healthy economic and socio-economic base to benefit the entire community. The Chamber of Commerce harnesses the tremendous potential of the private enterprise system and enables its membership to accomplish collectively what no one else could do individually.
    The policies and programs of the Chamber are determined by its Board of Directors, elected by the membership. They, in turn, employ a chief executive officer, whose basic responsibility is to organize and execute the Chamber's programs and carry out its policies.
    The Chamber represents and promotes the area's economy, and encourages business and industrial investment, broadening the tax base and providing employment. To business prospects, and newcomers, the Chamber represents the community's self-image. Chambers of Commerce are increasingly involved in non-commercial areas, such as education, human relations, environmental, cultural and governmental concerns. These challenges have caused Chambers of Commerce to become a viable force in seeking solutions to today's social problems.
    The Chamber of Commerce is a "business" and it incurs costs of operations and expenses similar to any other business. Those expenses are apportioned among its members, individuals and firms, representing all types of business industry and the professions. All share a mutual desire to achieve a better community for all its citizens. Chamber of Commerce membership is an investment in the present and future welfare of both the individual and their community.
    The Chamber of Commerce is the salesman for its community and businesses-unceasingly promoting their products and services-and at the same time is their watchdog-protecting their interests, particularly in the political arena. The united voice of the Chamber of Commerce has often proven effective and beneficial to business where a single voice can go unheard.
    Basic to all activities of the Chamber is its unifying influence. Through committee involvement, every Chamber member contributes to an organizational effort that is mutually beneficial to his community and to himself. Over the years, Chamber of Commerce operations, attitudes, and programs have changed to meet the challenges of today.
    So join your Chamber today! Do not wait until tomorrow. The opportunities available to you as a Chamber member are challenging and profitable. Today's investment in your Chamber of Commerce will produce immediate results. If commitment is what you feel about your business and your community's future, contact your Chamber office today!