MILTON – On a day that could certainly use a bit of good news and luck, the Central PA Chamber of Commerce reached a new milestone in membership!
For the first time in its 115-year history, the Chamber has attained 500 current members. It happened when a paid application was received in the mail on Friday, March 13.
The Chamber warmly welcomes Falls Finds Thrift Shop, Hughesville, which is also a member of the Chamber’s 499th member – Greater Hughesville Business Association.
“It is with great pride that I announced to the team of the Central PA Chamber of Commerce that we’ve surpassed our highest number of members in history and reached an internal goal of 500 members,” said Tea Jay Aikey, President & CEO, since late 2017. “I recall in early 2011 that we had a little over 200 members total. To say now in 2020 that we have 500 is a credit to the team of individuals who serve the members of the Central PA Chamber daily. That not only includes the staff but the many volunteers who make up the board of directors and various committees.
“I truly believe staying dedicated to our Vision and Mission statements is what sets us apart and makes us the preferred resource center. ‘Friday the 13th‘ has never been luckier for us!”
“I’ll just add I’m excited to have new businesses join our organization that recognize the economic impact the Central PA Chamber provides,” said Ron Mackley, of iHeartMedia – Williamsport/Shamokin, who serves as the Chamber’s 1st Vice Chair and Chairman of the Engagement Team.
The Central PA Chamber has experienced tremendous growth in the last several years, by innovating and providing a wide variety of new programs and services that are beneficial to the area business community, as well as non-profit organizations.
Some of the latest additions are the Raising the Board (RtB) program and Leadercast Live.
In 2019, RtB was introduced as a way to build the skills and confidence of current and future non-profit board members. The program was designed completely in-house by Chamber members and staff. There were 26 graduates last year.
The next set of classes are scheduled for 9 to 11 a.m. on the following Wednesdays – April 22 & 29, May 6 & 13 at the Central PA Chamber of Commerce, 30 Lawton Lane, Milton. Learn more by visiting www.centralpachamber.com/rtb.
Also last year, the Central PA Chamber became a host site to the largest one-day leadership conference on the planet – Leadercast Live! The Chamber will once again host the all-day event on May 7 on the Bucknell University campus. Learn more by visiting www.centralpachamber.com/events.
You can find much more information about how the Chamber is working for you on its web site, or stop in and/or call during office hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday). The number is 570-742-7341.
