A city is only as strong as the support behind it. And thanks to the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber of Commerce, Santa Rosa and its surrounding areas have grown stronger despite threats of fires, floods and now a pandemic. An easy selection by the readers for Best Chamber of Commerce, the Santa Rosa Metro Chamber prides itself on being more than just another run of the mill membership program. They look to build a community that motivates others, generates business and nurtures a region.
How does it feel to win Best Chamber of Commerce? “It’s an honor to be recognized in this way, and deeply validating for the chamber team, who are some of the most dedicated and passionate people I’ve worked with,” says Peter Rumble, chief executive officer of the chamber. “That dedication and passion for our community and members comes through in what the organization does, sometimes in areas that aren’t expected.” Some of those unexpected areas include services such as providing STEM tutoring for children across the county; support for affordable housing construction through a housing fund; and bringing major employers together to invest and encourage housing production.
The Santa Rosa Metro Chamber of Commerce was established to create business opportunities and ensure the current and future economy of the area is alive and well. The Metro Chamber also aims to serve as the voice of business in the Santa Rosa area, marketing Santa Rosa as a must-see destination for all visitors in a quest to grow the economy.
The Santa Rosa Metro Chamber of Commerce is engaged on every level, and its committed to acting in a leadership role with a regional perspective, focusing on excellence and collaboration.
“Our mission is what brings out team together to support, promote and advocate for our members and create a vibrant, sustainable economy. “I’m proud to see this mission come through in our programs, and expressed through the dedication and devotion of our team to the community,” says Rumble.
The Santa Rosa Metro Chamber can also point to a successful resume of involvement in local issues to help generate the change that has helped shape the community at large. The Chamber spearheaded plans for the Golden Gate Bridge, provided the original land for Santa Rosa Junior College, aided in the launch of Memorial Hospital, supported improvements to Highway 101 and promoted safety upgrades at the Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport.
While the chamber is known for its long-standing programs such as Leadership Santa Rosa and the Mike Hauser Academy, in recent months the chamber is spearheading newer initiatives such as an affordable housing fund and emergency mini-grants. “[It] would never happen without the dedication of volunteers and deep partnership with other organizations throughout the community,” says Rumble. “Times of crisis, like this remind us that we must rely on each other, we are all connected, and we have a moment to see what is important and who to rely on.” From the work and attention to detail on the front lines of business, to the behind the scenes legislation, it’s no wonder the organization was voted No.1 by NorthBay biz readers. “I’m so proud of our organization and our community for demonstrating the best of what can be, time and again, over the last several years,” says Rumble.
