Chamber Work That Matters
Each January, we take a moment to reflect—not to start over, but to build on what we’ve learned and accomplished alongside you. If you haven’t had the chance yet, I encourage you to pause and celebrate the good that came out of last year. One place to start: take a look at the impressive slate of finalists who will be recognized at next week’s Gala.
Chamber work doesn’t begin fresh with each calendar year. It carries forward, informed by your needs, your feedback, and the conditions shaping our region’s business climate.
As we begin 2026, we remain focused on our core purpose: serving as a Catalyst for business growth, a Convener of leaders and influencers, and a Champion for a strong community. That work is as visible as a packed Chamber luncheon or a downtown event, and as quiet as a one-on-one business referral, a legislative meeting, or a policy letter sent on your behalf.
Together with partners at MasonEDC and the North Mason Chamber of Commerce, we’re continuing to align on key regional issues like childcare, workforce development, and infrastructure. These aren’t abstract challenges. They impact your ability to hire, grow, and compete. Whether it’s advocating for broadband expansion, tracking regulatory changes, or meeting with legislative leaders, we’re committed to showing up and speaking up for local business.
That advocacy ramps up as the legislative session begins this month. This year, for the first time, the Chamber, MasonEDC, and North Mason Chamber presented a shared set of legislative priorities to guide our collective advocacy efforts throughout the 2026 session.
Behind the scenes, we’re also advancing regional efforts to support career-connected learning and future workforce readiness. Through our partnerships with local schools and educational nonprofits, we help students explore pathways into high-demand industries and skilled trades. These efforts not only create opportunity for students but also help build a sustainable talent pipeline for our employers.
We continue to support campaigns like Shop Local and Small Business Saturday, provide referrals and promotional exposure for our members, and offer exclusive resources through our Grow with Google Certified Partner status. Chamber membership includes access to business workshops, professional tools, and advocacy on state and local issues. It also lends credibility—what many call a “good housekeeping seal of approval”—that helps build trust with customers and clients.
You don’t have to attend every event to benefit from membership. While participation strengthens relationships, much of the value comes from what the Chamber is doing on your behalf while you’re busy running your business.
That said, if you are looking to plug in, we’d love to see you. We resume our regular events in February: Business After Hours are held on the second Wednesday of each month and Chamber luncheons on the third Friday. We also encourage you to save the date for the Expo & Bite of Mason County on July 17 and Golf Tournament on August 21.
We also continue our role in tourism support, particularly in Hoodsport, where our visitor center serves as a vital stop for travelers heading into Olympic National Park. By encouraging visitors to explore local shops, trails, and businesses, we help extend their stay and increase their economic impact across the region.
This year, Washington will also welcome the FIFA World Cup. As part of a statewide network of business organizations, we are actively monitoring opportunities and challenges that this global event may bring, particularly for business readiness and tourism. We’ll continue to share information, marketing, and resources for businesses to become “World Cup Ready.”
We are also moving forward to determine the scope of our 2026 beautification program. The Chamber coordinates the summer flower baskets and winter holiday lights that help make Shelton a more inviting place to live, work, and visit. This is an expensive undertaking—and we need your help. Contributions from local businesses and the community fund the program and gifts of any amount are appreciated.
If you haven’t reviewed your membership benefits recently, now is a great time to do so. From tiered investment levels to customizable sponsorship options, affordable advertising in Business Matters, and more there are many ways to tailor your membership to fit your goals.
Thank you for continuing to invest in the Chamber and in the strength of our business community. I’m proud to serve this region and look forward to what we’ll accomplish together in the year ahead.
