Chamber Info

A chamber of Commerce is a voluntary federation of the business community uniting the efforts of business and professional individuals to insure a healthy economic and socioeconomic base to benefit the entire community. The Chamber of Commerce harnesses the tremendous potential of area public and private enterprises and enabling its membership to accomplish collectively what no one could do individually.

Our purpose is to advance and promote the general welfare of the Hollister area so that its citizens and business community shall prosper. The Chamber is a nonprofit organization with nearly 200 members who are working together to maintain and improve the quality of life for the community. Emphasis is given to economic, civic, cultural and educational interests of our area while promoting a sound and healthy economic climate for Hollister. We are men and women of the area who recognize that together we can preserve our historical heritage, while building the safe, progressive municipality that will take our community into the new millennium. Our membership includes businesses of all sizes and individuals who want to be a part of making a difference and building a future. We are your spokesperson-we are your business voice to the city communicating your concerns and requests.

Do not wait until tomorrow to join. The opportunities available to you as a chamber member are challenging and profitable. The benefits are tangible for the individual as well as the community. Today's investment in your Chamber of Commerce will produce immediate results and continued returns. If commitment is what you feel about  your business and your community's future, contact us today at 417-334-3050.

Here are the top questions asked of the Chamber:

  1. HOW does the Chamber work?
    The policies and programs of the Chamber are determined by its Board of Directories, elected by the membership. They, in turn, employ a full-time paid Chamber President, whose basic responsibility is to organize and execute the Chamber's program and carry out its policies.
  2. WHAT does the Chamber do?
    The Chamber represents and promotes the area's economy, and encourages business and industrial investment, broadening the tax base and providing employment. To business prospects and newcomers, The Chamber represents the community's self image. We are increasingly involved in noncommercial areas, such as education, human relations, environmental, cultural and governmental concerns. These challenges have caused us to become a viable force in seeking solutions to today's social problems. We also influence national, state, and local legislation affecting business.
  3. WHO finances the Chamber?
     The Chamber of Commerce is a business and it incurs costs of operations and expenses similar to any other types of businesses. Those expenses are apportioned among its members, individuals, and firms, representing all types of business, industry and professions. All share a mutual desire to achieve a better community for all it's citizens. Chamber of Commerce membership is an investment in the present and future welfare of both the individual and our community.
  4. WHY join the Chamber?
    The Chamber of Commerce is the salesman for its community and businesses -- promoting their products and services-- and at the same time is their watch-dog-- protecting their interests, particularly in the political arena. The united voice of the Chamber of Commerce has proven effective and beneficial to business where a single voice can go unheard. The benefit of belonging to the Chamber is full-time representation and year round results.
  5. WHAT is the best way to get the most out of my membership?
    Our most satisfied members seem to be those who attend meetings and activities and who get active in the Chamber. We believe the Chamber is the perfect place to make contacts with potential new customers for your business profession. At the same time, we realize your time is limited, so all meetings and committees meet for a purpose and follow and agenda to use everyone's time most efficiently. As with lots of things, what you get out of your Chamber membership depends on what you put into it!
  6. HOW do I market through the Chamber?
    There are several ways to market your business through the Chamber.
    Free Service Opportunities:
    * Brochures or business cards displayed in the Chamber lobby.
    * Listings in our Chamber Directory
    * Networking Functions
    * Website listing and/or link
    * Listing as a new member in our newsletter
    * Committee involvement
    * Ads in our monthly newsletter
    * Flash Faxes ( First Fax is FREE!)
    * Membership mailing labels
    * Special event sponsorships
    * Hosting Chamber events
  7. HOW do I get involved on a committee?
    Annually, the Chamber seeks volunteers for our various committees...but you don't have to wait until then! We have a list of committees included with the new member packets and encourage you get involved as soon as your time allows .
  8. YOU and your Chamber
    Basic to all activities of the Chamber is its unifying influence. Through committee involvement, every chamber member contributes to organizational effort that is mutually beneficial to the community and to oneself. Over the years, Chamber of Commerce operations, attitudes and programs have changed to meet the challenges of today. However, one premise remains intact--programs are the integral role of involved and concerned citizens to protect and preserve our free enterprise system. Today, as it was in 1768 when first Chamber of Commerce was formed, the basic concept of a Chamber of Commerce remains the same: voluntary organization representing the business community marshaling the energies and effort of its membership toward accomplishment of common goals.