Message from our President & CEO

Dear Fellow Chamber Members,

In 2010, like many businesses, the Chamber began to refocus its energy and get back to basics to provide and support more networking opportunities to increase our member’s center of influence in an effort to grow their business. In 2011, we charged forward with that effort by providing more FREE Business Networking events as well as creating new networking initiatives.

In January, we started our first Linked @ the Chamber Group, a targeted Networking group using LinkedIn to develop new relationship. I am proud to say, this group has become a success and we are now in the process of organizing a second group.

Providing value added services is a priority. In December, the Chamber with the help of Always Aware rolled out our Community Portal. This portal promotes the buy local approach and allows Chamber Members, at no cost, to create custom coupon discount banners. This is FREE advertising to help attract new customers to members businesses.

Our Affinity Partner programs continue to grow providing discounted services to our members and their employees.

The Chamber is also updating its website. The changes will enable visitors to quickly view the calendar of events, business directory and member news. In addition, a new feature provides a tab for classified listing so members can post help wanted ads. There is also a new resource tab where you will find current information and links to valuable partner resources such as the Dept. of Labor, Workforce Investment Board, Economic Development and the SBA. As business and community members search our site, this section will enable us in becoming more of a resource in helping the community get to the right partners.

Again, the Board would like to congratulate all of the Honoree’s who were recognized at our Annual Community Service Awards Dinner on Wednesday, June 1 at Scotland Run. This year, the categories were expanded to include Business Person of the Year, Small Business Person of the Year, Citizen and Chamber Member of the Year. All of the finalist give so much to make Gloucester County a better place to live and work and we thank them for all they do.

As we move forward, the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce will continue to grow membership and continue to provide value added services as we strive to become the GO TO organization in South Jersey for networking and business growth.

One behalf of our Board of Directors, I thank our membership for all the support they provide the Chamber. We are here because of you and for you. We look forward to seeing each of you at future Chamber events.

Les Vail
President/CEO