Its great to be a part of the Kent community!
As executive director for the Kent Chamber of Commerce, I have had the good fortune of meeting people who serve our community in so many different ways. Balancing home, work and volunteer efforts can be challenging and yet there are so many who tirelessly give of their time. There are many reasons to volunteer but quite simply, the personal and business fulfillment you receive from donating your time and/ or belonging to professional organizations is personally and professionally rewarding. As the executive director of the chamber, I have the opportunity to be active in the community and sit on multiple boards and interacting with a wealth of different people. I am constantly amazed by the depth of giving in our community.
Never underestimate the power of networking. Membership in associations and volunteering will allow you to connect with your peers and share ideas, ask for advice, share best practices and new ideas and brainstorm for your future.
It allows you to use your peers as a sounding board and often make great friendships. The Kent Chamber of Commerce represents over 450 businesses that have interest in the health of the business community and Kent. We provide education and networking opportunities to partner with other businesses and organizations for the good of the community. Our partners include both multimillion dollar international companies and small locally owned businesses. The Kent chamber relies on its members to bring issues forward that need to be addressed and the feedback is the key to the success of the Kent Chamber of
Commerce.
In recent months the Kent Chamber has made headlines in our differences with the city of Kent regarding taxation and fees levied upon the business community. The purpose of this article is not to debate them but to applaud the city of Kent, business community and individuals for coming together to discuss different points of view. After all, we live in a country where debate and dialog of our differences is a cornerstone and this communication is vital. The chamber and the city of Kent work closely together to create an atmosphere where businesses thrive and the community as a whole prospers. In matters concerning or affecting local business, the city requests input from the chamber and takes that information into consideration when making decisions. While the chamber and the city don’t always agree, we applaud the city of Kent and council for continuing to work with the Kent chamber, organizations and individuals as we amalgamate our visions for the good of our community.
Kent has a plethora of choices of organizations that need your leadership and volunteer efforts. There are associations for nearly every profession or area of interest. These synergistic groups are stronger because of the individuals and businesses that join them. Being involved and part of the conversation does not only pertain to business organizations. Be active in what affects your life whether it is with your child’s little league, your home owners association, a professional organization or getting involved with an organization you are passionate about.
The impact you can make with just a couple hours a month in an organization or through volunteer efforts will provide you exponential growth while helping your community.
Andrea Keikkala is executive director of the Kent Chamber of Commerce.
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