Frequently Asked Questions! And the Answers!

What does the Chamber do?

You have probably heard that question asked at one time or another. It is a legitimate question and many people, including those to whom the Chamber is very important, have different concepts of exactly what our Chamber of Commerce is, how it works, or what it is for.

There are, in fact, a lot of misconceptions about the Chamber. For example, there are those who believe the Chamber gathers statistics, prints nice brochures, visits new businesses, answers inquiries and advertises what a great place South Columbia County area is to work, live and enjoy life.

They are right, up to a point. We do all those things, and proudly so. All of those jobs are important. But, they aren't why the Chamber is here. They are fringe benefits of the Chamber; the things we do as a matter of routine because they need doing and we are good at them.

The primary functions of the Chamber go far deeper than those niceties. The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce is a catalyst, a common vehicle through which business and professional people work together for the common good of the community.

A better community means better business conditions, and we work for a better community for everyone. That's why we do what we do. This brings us back to the original question: What do we do? There is, in the final analysis, one reason for the Chamber to exist ... to do whatever is necessary to keep the area's economic condition at a level where businesses will risk their resources here in hope of making a profit ... everything else is just frosting on the cake ... a means to the end.

In any community, it is from the profitable operations of business that all other benefits are derived. Only by succeeding in this fundamental goal can we provide the jobs and produce the wealth to finance all the governmental, civic, educational, cultural and charitable needs that our community is faced with every day.

That leaves one final question: Who is this "we" that does all this? "We" are you! The Chamber members and all of your business and professional friends who are also Chamber members.

YOU ARE THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. You provide the ideas, the drive, the goals, the funds and the voluntary services to keep the Chamber doing what it does. You are the Chamber, and without you, there wouldn't be any Chamber, and - just who would do all those things if the Chamber didn't?

We need the confidence that it can be done in our community, county and state. We need to be available to do it, and if we can, and if we do, we will be accountable to the coming generations who will be the true judges of what we do today.

Q: Who runs the Chamber?

A: The management staff of the Chamber consists of one executive assistant and one Chief Executive Officer. These are behind-the-scenes specialists with backgrounds in diverse areas such as event planning, advertising, and community and government relations. They have the knowledge, expertise, and energy necessary to help you make the South Columbia County area a better place to live and do business.

Q: What does the Board of Directors do?

A: The Board of Directors is the policy making body of the Chamber. Its members represent the business, industrial and professional leadership of the community. The Board is elected by the membership and has rotating terms of office. The Chairman of the Chamber presides over the Board of Directors.

Q: How will my business gain exposure through membership?

A: As a Chamber member, your business is referred to hundreds of callers looking for lodging, goods and services. New members are recognized in our monthly newsletter and introduced at our regular Chamber Koffee Klatches, forums, and other Chamber sponsored events. Renewing members are recognized regularly in our newsletter for their continued support. Advertising in our newsletter and sponsorships of programs and events are available to Chamber members.

Q: Is my investment spent wisely?

A: The Chamber is run by business people just like yourself. We operate under the guidelines of a mission statement and business plan. We use generally accepted accounting procedures, and annual budget reviews are conducted. It is very important for the Chamber to get the most out of every dollar.

A comprehensive planning process each year insures that programs and objectives have been thoroughly reviewed for their effectiveness in meeting the real needs of local and regional business and community concerns.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce is the best business bargain in South Columbia County. A basic membership investment can cost as little as $120.00, depending on the size of your business. Dues may be paid quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. There is a one time up-front set up fee of $25.

Q: Are my dues tax deductible?

A: Yes. Membership investments are tax deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense. Dues paid to the Chamber are not a charitable tax deduction for federal income tax purposes.

Benefits of Membership:

• Take advantage of brochure rack privileges where thousands of visitors and potential new residents can access your information. (The South Columbia County Chamber receives over 20,000 visitors annually). 
• Enjoy constant marketing through the Discover Oregon Treasures brochure, which is distributed at all nine state welcome centers and various Chambers of Commerce throughout the entire state. 
• Allow Chamber volunteers to refer thousands of callers your way. The South Columbia County Chamber receives almost 15,000 calls annually. 
• Attend koffee klatches, business after hours, forums, and other Chamber sponsored events to network with fellow business men and women and to hear interesting speakers and Chamber business reports. 
• Advertise and submit articles in our online monthly newsletter, which gets reaches out and is seen by over 1000 individuals a month. 
• Receive a complete business listing in the Chamber's online database, that may include links to your web site for additional attention. 
• Be alerted to business opportunities sent exclusively to the Chamber office for Chamber members. 
• Host a Business After Hours in your business for networking opportunities to put you in touch with potential customers, partners, and suppliers. 
• Benefit from effective representation on issues at the local and state levels. 
• Help shape the future of our organization and city with involvement in Chamber committees. 
• Become involved with a variety of successful special events. 
• Enjoy trade show representation. 
• Be a part of the largest business organization in South Columbia County that works towards improving our area’s economic base and the promotion of business development.
• Free listing in our Community Directory - over 15,000 copies printed annually! 
• Free listing on the South Columbia County Chamber Website 
• Direct referrals from the Chamber Office. 
• Opportunity to participate in the marketing program through specially designed relocation packets, web presence, and maps. 
• Co-op advertising opportunities at reduced rates. 
• Free use of the Chamber bulk mail stamp, for mailing 200 or more advertisements. 
• Member to Member discounts with a current listing in the Chamber newsletter. 
• Regular e-mails updating you about area events, current topics, and up to the minute news from the Chamber. 
• A member mailing list of approximately 365+ businesses available ONLY to Chamber members. 
• Advertising opportunities in the Community Directory and the monthly newsletter at discount member rates. 
• Opportunity to have your business highlighted in the monthly newsletter. 
• A Chamber Office Staff dedicated toward helping your business grow and succeed!