Member Services
Networking Meetings
You will rub elbows with some of the nicest business people in the West Columbia Gorge at these events held on select Wednesdays at various business locations. One of the benefits of your membership is participating in networking meetings, either by attending or by hosting. When you host an event, you and your business are the focus and you get a chance to showcase your business establishment. When you attend an event, you have the opportunity to introduce yourself and your guest(s), as well as bring your best marketing materials to hand out. Announcement time allows you to tell the group what specials or other news you have to share. All of our networking events provide a great way to promote your business!
Chamber Coffee Chat: Presently because of Covid19 and honoring social distancing mandates, the Chamber is meeting every Wednesday at 8 am to 8:45 am on Zoom. Check the website calendar for Zoom info and the guest speaker for the Chat. A different member’s business is featured each week and there is a time for introductions of all present.
Website Listing/Marketing Opportunities
Our website will have your business listed as part of your member benefit. Part of your business listing will include a free link to your business website. You are also included in our widely distributed Chamber guide and directory published by Pamplin Media. As we train the general consumer about the value of looking to its local chamber for business contacts, being listed on a chamber website is a MUST for all businesses. The West Columbia Gorge area receives thousands of visitors during any given year. Some of them decide to come back time and time again. Using their phones they have access to any business that we have on our website.
Board of Directors
Your leadership skills are needed! You will work with other caring leaders of the community whose sole purpose is to insure we are serving our business community at all levels. Our website will provide information in this area.
Committees
As with any non-profit organization, the Chamber relies on volunteers to make things happen. We offer all members the chance to help keep our chamber viable and relevant. Consider serving on one of the following:
Membership
Work side-by-side with our staff to keep ideas flowing and put feet to the planning, as we discover new and innovative ways to add to our member benefits. You will also be instrumental in aiding in ribbon cuttings, recruiting drives, and long-term planning. You may also be called upon to help with board member recruitment and training. Your talents will be put to good use. Come and be part of growing the Chamber!
Economic Development & Government Liaison
We are a diverse community and each of the industries that encompasses our area need representation as each progresses. It is imperative that we identify roadblocks and trends in the work force in order to improve the quality of life for all who live and work in the West Columbia River Gorge. These are exciting times, as industry standards are being developed. This committee provides information on how businesses and governmental agencies can interact. You will meet leaders in our government and help bridge any gaps that may exist. You will help identify and provide opportunities for governmental agencies and chamber members to come together at different venues throughout the year. Join this committee to become aware and help bring awareness to the chamber membership.
Fundraising & Special Events
Chamber events need a large corps of volunteers to help plan and implement. Whether it is for fundraising or for participating in the planning of an exciting and fun event, you can be a part of the creative process. You are welcome to bring your skills to aid the Chamber in its efforts. Special events presently include the Holiday Tree Lighting Celebrations for Fairview, Wood Village and Troutdale. The Chamber will also present its bi-annual Marketplace Trade Show on October 6 at the Troutdale House by the Sandy River/Caswell Sculpture Garden. The Passport to Businesses event will help open businesses once safety restrictions are lifted. These fine events bring community locals and visitors together.
Tourism
Get to know our various state and regional partners in the tourism industry. Help in planning and getting the word out to the local business community about the great economic impact tourism has in our region. Learn and share what you know about our area to assist in providing the best visitor experience. Your involvement can help us in providing information to both domestic and international travelers as well as with the Chamber membership and the regional community.
Sponsorships
Businesses and individuals who have the means to support the chamber really are major contributors. They shape what is possible for our Chamber by providing the financial backing. We offer various opportunities to contribute as a sponsor. We also invite sponsors to participate in board or committee roles. We have the flexibility to shape a package for you as a sponsor.
Your financial investment
in a chamber offers not only networking opportunities but marketing, as well. Through our social media, we are able to reach people from all over the world! We amplify your voice. We strive to promote all that our businesses and non-profits are doing to engage the consumer.