In the current economic climate, chambers have had to innovate and enact new programs quickly to both advocate for and support their communities and generate revenue for their organization.
With daily Zoom calls and constantly changing regulations, we are all feeling stretched thin and at times it can be hard to be creative.
Inspired by this shared feeling, we are starting a monthly feature to bring you programs and ideas from chambers around the West with the hope of inspiring each other and working together to bring the chamber industry and our communities through these difficult times with strong and bright futures.
Winters Chamber Creates Relief Fund, Voucher Program for Fire Victims
The community of Winters is one of many that have been affected by devastating wildfires this summer. The Winters (CA) Chamber organized assistance for victims through a Fire Relief Fund as well as a voucher program. Those needing assistance receive vouchers which can be redeemed at local businesses. Small businesses who accept vouchers are then reimbursed by the chamber through a fund consisting of donations collected from larger businesses in the community. This is a great way to not only support those affected by the fire, but also to help support local small businesses during this challenging time. Way to be a Champion for your Community!
Contact: sue@winterschamber.com.
Billings Chamber Launches 3C Rebranding
Billings (MT) Chamber has gone all in with a new branding campaign, declaring “We are Your 3C’s Chamber” and branding themselves “Champions and Conveners the Catalyst for growth” across their website, videos and all communications. Their messaging is consistent and cohesive across multiple channels. They create excitement with impactful statements like “We are the spark that ignites business growth.” This is a wonderful example of a strategic and well thought out 3C campaign.
Visit their website dedicated to the 3C’s at 3cs.billingschamber.com.
Central Coast Coalition of Chambers Measures Current, Long-Term Impacts of COVID-19
Twelve California chambers on the Central Coast have joined together to perform a monthly survey of the effects of COVID-19 on their region. Data has been collected since May, analyzed and made available, showing overall effects and comparing data month to month. The survey includes data about greatest concerns, school/childcare plans, general sentiment, revenue, business operations, greatest needs and more.
View the San Luis Obispo (CA) Chamber website for an article sharing the August survey results at slochamber.org.
Vail Valley Partnership Hosts Community Resiliency Bootcamp
Vail Valley (CO) Partnership is providing members an “opportunity to dive deep with likeminded professionals into eight different issues that are defining the future of Eagle County.” The bootcamp focuses on understanding how external issues affect planning and decision making in the community and how to come together to collaborate and lead through these challenges. The Community Resiliency Bootcamp includes five 2-hour in-person sessions that take place from June to October.
For more information on the program, visit www.vailvalleypartnership.com.
Tulsa Regional Chamber Exceeds Goal with $1 Million Board Challenge
The Tulsa (OK) Regional Chamber assessed its critical revenue needs and came up with a revenue campaign focused on their board members. The Board Challenge requested accelerated payment of receivables, as well as above and beyond gifts of 25% dues amount. The campaign was successful in achieving 80% board participation and exceeding the $1 million goal.
Contact: allisonwalden@tulsachamber.com.
Las Vegas Chamber Holds Virtual Washington, D.C. Fly-In
The Las Vegas (NV) Chamber joined with the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance to host a virtual D.C. Fly-In via Zoom to advocate on behalf of Nevada’s business community. The multi-day event included virtual meetings with Nevada’s congressional delegation and leadership, policy groups, trade associations, The Brookings Institution, International Economic Development Council, National Association of Workforce Boards, the U.S. Chamber and more. The event also included two socially distanced in-person receptions. Participation included almost 100 chamber members as well as numerous sponsors. It was a creative way to continue to convene leaders and influencers and be the catalyst for change amidst a pandemic.
Learn more at www.vegaschamber.com.
Carlsbad Chamber Launches Gift Carlsbad—Shop Local Stimulus Program
The Carlsbad (CA) Chamber recently launched Gift Carlsbad, a joint revenue-generating effort with the Ready Carlsbad Business Alliance, Carlsbad Village Association, Visit Carlsbad and City of Carlsbad to promote support of local businesses deeply affected by COVID-19. Gift cards are available for purchase on an online marketplace platform and can be purchased for more than 50 local businesses. Customers who order a $25 gift card receive a $5 bonus while those ordering $40 or more get a $10 bonus.
View Gift Carlsbad at www.giftcarlsbad.com.
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Information featured each month in Around the West is taken from chamber newsletters that W.A.C.E. receives from its members. We try to share best practices, ideas and programs from chambers working hard to be Catalysts, Conveners and Champions and make a difference in their community. Make sure to subscribe W.A.C.E. to your mailing list, if you haven’t done so already, and you may be featured in a future Insider!
Send e-newsletters to: jennifer.johnson@calchamber.com.
Send mailings to: W.A.C.E., P.O. Box 1736, Sacramento, CA 95812-1736.