About Our Chamber| The Voice of Business The Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce is a strong and credible voice for business, representing more than 400 members. The Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer, not-for-profit federally regulated organization. Specifically, The Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce through its members and successive councils promote the Westside as a "good place to work, live and do business". |
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Members are encouraged to participate in activities and make their thoughts heard when it comes to improving business opportunities in our community. It is the members who are the driving force behind the community. As an advocate for these members, the Chamber lobbies municipal, provincial and federal governments. A united voice has far more impact than a single one.
Mission Statement
The
Vision Statement
To be the inclusive voice of our membership, by taking a collaborative role in social and economic development.
History
The Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce was originally formed in the 1940’s and was called the Westbank Board of Trade. Amongst the pioneers that worked to form this body were people such as Dorothy Gellatly, known as Doro or Granny to many old-timers.
The Chamber is “Incorporated” federally under the Board of Trade Act and is required by law to annually advise the names of it’s council members to the Minister of Consumer & Corporate Affairs. the Act prescribes the “mandate” under which the Chamber must operate.
The Philosophy of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce to which we are members is to “promote the economic, social and civic development of the community”.
This means the Chamber is an advocate of development that will be for the “benefit of the majority" not necessarily for “business only”. Perhaps a more acceptable and less misunderstood word would be “enhancement”. Development for development’s sake may not be the best for the community and the Chamber is very cognizant of this fact.
Specifically, the Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce through it’s members and successive councils attempted to promote the Westside as a “good place to work, live and do business”. Our many accomplishments speak for themselves and we do not plan to rest on our laurels for there is still much to be done.
The council or directors that have been elected are volunteers who give freely of their time because they believe the community needs leadership. Many devote countless hours for the betterment of the community in which we live, unsung heroes, yet important just the same.
Membership in the Chamber is not restricted to those in business. As the B.C. Chamber mandate says, it is open to those who have an interest in the community. If you are a concerned citizen you should consider joining.
Contact Us
Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 250-768-3378 Toll Free: 1-866-768-3378
Fax: 250-768-3465 email: chamber@westbankchamber.com
Hours of Operation
Summer Hours*: Monday - Sunday
Fall/Winter Hours: Monday - Friday
*May long weekend to August 31st
