The United States Chamber of Commerce awarded the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive impact on the community on Wednesday, March 20.
“Accreditation validates a Chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Executive Director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations. “We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise.”
“As one of just 19 Chambers of Commerce accredited in Texas, out of 400 Chambers in the state, we are proud of where we are and committed to move from the top 3% in the nation to the top 2%,” said RaDonna Hessel, CEO of the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce.
2013 is the first year the Grapevine Chamber has applied for accreditation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
“It is exceptional for a Chamber to receive a 4-Star Accreditation in its first effort,” said Hessel. “Of course our ultimate goal is to become the sixth 5-Star Accredited Chamber in Texas; so the Chamber’s Board of Directors has already started work to reach that goal.”
Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes Chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to receive accreditation, a Chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs and technology. This extensive self-review can take six to nine months to complete.
“Our Chamber’s goals are to create strong leadership, business partnerships, and stewardship and prosperity, and each goal helps in promoting businesses that add value to our community, which is the mission of the Grapevine Chamber,” said Hessel. “Building a strong business base ultimately benefits all of those who live, work and play in Grapevine.”
Local Chambers are rated accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars or 5-Stars. State Chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.