Chamber Board Convenes at Retreat

The Chamber staff and its Board of Trustees convened on January 31 at St. Andrew’s House in Union for a retreat to formalize board appointments and set priorities for the year. The cozy space and hospitality at the venue was ideal for the twenty Chamber leaders comprised of past and present Board members and staff. The group spend the day reflecting on prior year results and focusing upon the year ahead.  According to a survey of our membership, overall member engagement is better this year over last, according to a recent industry survey. Our Chamber ended the year in a strong financial position and achieved an all-time membership record.

We attribute that largely to advocacy, access to resources, and promotion becoming more essential than ever during the pandemic. Our annual membership survey confirmed that these are some of the top reasons for investing in the Chamber. We have developed our program of work to ensure:  The Chamber is a catalyst for business growth. The Chamber is a convener of leaders and influencers. The Chamber is a champion for a strong community. The board unanimously affirmed these overarching goals. Further discussion led to identifying strategies that will guide how we serve as a catalyst, champion, and convener.

As a catalyst, we sustain a healthy economy by working with local school districts and post-secondary institutions to ensure training needs meet recruitment demand. In fact, workforce development initiatives are now among the top priorities of our employers. We also offer informational programs and flexible networking opportunities. We are certified national partners of Grow with Google and Small Business Saturday™.  

We make it a point to be at the heart of important issues like workforce development, quality of life, and civic engagement. We are a convener of meaningful conversations. We have built strong relationships with business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders. Access to these individuals gives us a powerful voice to represent our nearly 400 members and 10,000 employees on issues that matter.

Being a champion means that we are active in supporting local efforts. Our staff, board members and volunteers work to build a healthy economy, promote tourism opportunities, leverage partnerships, and develop plans to build Mason County’s future.

Bottom line: the Shelton-Mason Chamber of Commerce seeks to make positive things happen for our businesses and in our community. What do you believe the Chamber should be known for? Drop a note to CEO Heidi McCutcheon. She’d love to hear your thoughts.