U.S. Chamber Awards Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation
The United States Chamber of Commerce, at its board meeting this week, awarded the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community.
“Now more than ever, chambers of commerce have stepped up to serve as a resource to the business community and advocates of free enterprise” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber vice president of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “Through the pandemic these chambers continue to lead while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, value in programming and effective communications. They are commended for their sound policies and practices, and for this great accomplishment.”
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 6-9 months to complete.
“This is a significant accomplishment that can only be achieved through a focus on excellence in all facets of the organization; members, programs, volunteers, board leadership, and staff,” said Gary Laird, Hanover Chamber President. “I would like to extend a special thanks to our staff and board of directors for their efforts and support throughout this process.”
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.
Accreditation is a tremendous achievement. There are 190 Accredited chambers of commerce across the country and 125 have 5-stars. Moreover, the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce is one of only four Accredited chambers in Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.
The mission of the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce is to deliver value to members and advance the interests of the business community. For more information, visit www.hanoverchamber.com.