:: Chambers of Commerce ::

 Find out more about what a Chamber's function is, who runs it and who the members are. 

:: What is it? ::

A Chamber of Commerce is an action agency designed to meet community needs. It is a voluntary organization of individuals and businesses who band together to advance the commercial, financial, industrial and civic interests of a community. 

Chambers of Commerce are

* Civic clearinghouses

* Public relations counselors

* Legislative representatives at the local, state and national levels of government

* Information bureaus

* Research and promotions mediums

:: Who Runs It? ::

The organization is run by a Board of Directors, elected by the Chamber's members. The Board, serving without pay, sets the policies. The administration head of the Chamber is the Executive Director. 

:: What Does It Do? ::

The variety of a Chamber's activities is virtually unlimited, depending on community needs and the desire and ability of the Chamber to meet these needs. Its overall mission of community development is determined by its program. . . Its goals, usually called a Program of Work.

:: How Does It Work? ::

Action groups (also called councils, task forces, committees) are the backbone of the Chamber. They are the units that accomplish the organization's goals and objectives. The needs of the community and policies of the Chamber determine the kinds and number of these action groups.

:: Who Pays For It? ::

Financed on a voluntary basis, a Chamber's expenses are apportioned among its membership base comprised of both businesses and individuals. Chamber membership is an investment in the present and future of the individual's and community's welfare. The Chamber activities are not funded by any branch of government.

:: Who Are Its Members? ::

Any business or individual sharing a common interest in community improvement is eligible for membership.