MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

The East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce helps support and promote business within the region of East Gwillimbury.  I think that you will find our website a valuable resource of business and events in the area.

Last year the Board of Directors approved a long term Strategic Plan designed to promote growth and offer services and support  to the current members.

4 areas of support or pillars were identified.
Pillar 1  Networking and Special Events

The East Gwillimbury Chamber provides a forum for business owners to exchange leads and information.
Every month there is a breakfast meeting, featuring a sponsor business.  This event is always well attended and fun!  If the breakfast time does not work for you try our “After hours” events with networking at a “host” business – in the past we have done everything from fishing to theatre to browsing in an antique store!  Once a year we have a Gala event with awards in different categories.  Members and guests enjoy a dinner, speaker and social networking.

Pillar 2 Member Services.

The website is just one service that is available to members to feature their business.  There is also a
comprehensive Business Directory, listing all current members.  Newsletters and e-Voice announcements keep members in tune with new information, upcoming events, and available member to member discounts. The office informs the members of upcoming events both within the Chamber and in the greater Region.
Another essential service we offer members is a Group Life Insurance and Benefits programme.

Pillar 3 Administrative Services, Information and Education

The Chamber has an efficient office staff who keep members informed of all the Chamber has to offer.  This pillar reviews the By-Laws, policy and procedures, the finances and reports annually to the membership.  On the educational side, we offer informative speakers throughout the year including Small Business Week and an annual CPR training day.

Pillar 4  Advocacy and Outreach

The mission of this pillar is to act as the voice of the Chamber and its members through various committees.  For example, in the Town of East Gwillimbury, a member of the Board sits on the Town’s Business Development Committee and Councillor Jack Hauseman represents the Town at the Chamber Board Meetings.  A highlight of the year is the Mayor and Council Luncheon when we meet the Councillors  and Town staff members.  We hear first hand, future plans for our area.  Other close relationships are shared with the Ontario and regional Chambers of Commerce.

Each pillar is represented by a dynamic team who strive for continuous improvement in growing the Chamber and enhancing  the services offered.

In times of a tough economy there is a greater need of a close support system.  I encourage everyone who is looking for services, whether at home or in the office, to seek out local business.
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