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it will have on our community. It will bring in more visitors, which translates into more money funneling into our community,” Snyder said. However, The Chamber endured one of the single most difficult times in its history when the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world. “It’s been a challenging couple years because of the pandemic,” according to Matthews. He explained that one of the first things The Chamber did was start the Southern Oregon Strong social media page to share information and resources with the community. “We were where businesses could get information on new rules, mandates, loans, and other resources,” said Matthews. “We also fought on the political front for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) so businesses could obtain additional financial support.” Snyder agreed, noting that The Chamber was open for all businesses, not just Chamber members. They quickly became a vital community resource. “When PPP became available, we were handling about 50 calls a day from businesses. We were directing businesses on how to get help, how and where to apply, and how to determine if they qualified for available funds,” Snyder explained. Additionally, Snyder said The Cham- ber started a program that promoted all local restaurants, regardless if they were Chamber members. The pro- gram received positive feedback from both businesses and patrons, helping the community to reconnect amidst the pandemic. “We’re also securing grant money for small businesses,” Snyder said. “The Chamber was recently given funds to be doled out to small businesses that were hurt by the pandemic, but who couldn’t apply for other aid programs. We went to the businesses
“We’re made up of about 90% volunteers,” he said. “These are local business and community leaders that dedicate resources and time so they can help other businesses in our region. This work is done by volunteers — people born and raised here, who love Southern Oregon, and want to help.” - Travis Snyder, Chamber Board President and CEO of Precision Electric
Travis Snyder, Chamber Board President and CEO of Precision Electric.
Committee, which helps support pro-business candidates at local and state levels. “We have a saying — ‘If you’re not at the table, you’re probably on the menu.’ The Chamber works hard to make sure there are pro- businesspeople representing the local community and what’s important to us here.” The Chamber also hires a full-time lobbyist to track state and federal bills, as well as city and county government issues. This ensures The Chamber can effectively advocate for the best interests of local businesses. Additionally, Matthews said The Chamber created the Legislative Action Committee, “...a group of business leaders that come together every month to talk about what we should advocate for and recommend to the Board of Directors.” However, Snyder noted that while The Chamber advocates for Jackson County in Salem, they always remain focused on the local community as well. “The Chamber was very active in supporting the new Rogue Credit Union Community Complex and understanding the positive impact
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The Business Review | September 2021
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