The Benefits of Joining Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Source: US Chamber of Commerce by Jamie Johnson
If you’re looking for new business opportunities, have you considered joining your local chamber of commerce? Let’s look at how joining a chamber of commerce can benefit your business and how to maximize your membership investment.
The benefits of joining your local chamber of commerce
New business contacts
When you join a local chamber, you open your business to a network of potential partnerships. Business contacts from your local chamber could become the supportive community you turn to one day for assistance or vice versa. These contacts could serve as your sounding board for new ideas and even partner with you on a new endeavor.
Increased credibility
Joining your local chamber of commerce could give you more credibility with potential customers. One study found that 64% of adults familiar with their local chamber of commerce were more likely to purchase from a chamber member. A positive perception of your business could lead to higher profits.
Increased visibility
As your local chamber grows, so will your visibility in the community. Most chambers of commerce hold monthly networking opportunities, allowing you to meet other professionals in your area. Your local chamber may offer additional opportunities to market your small business by highlighting your company in its newsletter, website, or social media platforms.
Business resources
Many chambers of commerce offer financial resources. For example, your chamber may be able to provide financial aid if your business is going through a crisis, or they may inform you about low-cost loans or free grant programs you may qualify for.
Your membership may include additional perks, like discounts on certain products or services. Some chambers of commerce even provide access to affordable healthcare or business insurance.
Professional development
In addition to networking events, chambers often hold events and training sessions focusing on professional development. These are affordable ways to improve your skills and increase your knowledge.
How to calculate chamber ROI: Leads, referrals, visibility, and cost per opportunity
Joining a chamber of commerce is an investment, so you want to understand what you’re getting in return. Start by tracking how many leads you receive from chamber events, introductions, or member directories. Over time, you can estimate how many of those leads turn into paying customers and how much revenue they generate.
It’s also important to consider the indirect benefits, like increased visibility and brand recognition. For example, being featured in a chamber newsletter or speaking at an event may not lead to immediate sales, but it can build trust and awareness of your business in your community.
Finally, compare the total value you receive from a chamber membership compared to the cost. If you spend $500 to join and generate $5,000 in new business, your return on the investment (ROI) justifies the cost. Evaluating the cost per opportunity can also help you decide whether your membership is worth it long term.
Unlocking a membership’s full value: Committees, sponsorships, ribbon cuttings, and member directories
Your chamber of commerce membership is only valuable if you take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer. Here are ways to maximize your membership:
- Join a committee or attend events. Getting involved in a committee or regularly showing up to networking events helps you build familiarity with other members. The more visible you are, the more likely people are to refer business your way.
- Take advantage of sponsorships and ribbon cuttings. Sponsoring an event or hosting a ribbon cutting can quickly put your business in front of a larger audience. These opportunities often come with added promotional opportunities.
- Optimize your member directory listing. Many chambers include an online member directory that can act as a referral tool. Make sure your profile is complete and clearly explains what your business offers.
- Know why you joined. Whether your goal is generating leads, building partnerships, or increasing brand awareness, be intentional about the events and opportunities you prioritize.
- Include your team when possible. If your membership allows, encourage employees to attend events or join committees. This expands your reach and helps your business stay visible even when you’re not present.
###
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a proud member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and an active part of the U.S. Chamber Federation of small and regional chambers, which routinely provides content like the article above. The content above does not constitute legal, accounting, tax, or other professional advice but is for general informational purposes. For accurate, complete advice, readers are encouraged to consult with qualified legal, accounting, or other professional advisors before making any decisions based on the information provided. If you need help finding qualified help, please contact the Chamber for a list of our members.
ABC Supply – New Member Highlight
ABC Supply Co. Inc. in Montoursv
ille, Pennsylvania, is a trusted supplier serving contractors, builders, and homeowners throughout the region with a wide range of roofing, siding, windows, gutters, decking, and other exterior building products. As part of the nation’s largest wholesale distributor of roofing and building materials, the Montoursville branch combines the resources of a nationally recognized company with the personalized service of a local team committed to helping customers complete projects efficiently and successfully. Known for dependable delivery services, knowledgeable staff, and strong relationships with industry professionals, ABC Supply continues to support the local construction community by providing quality materials, convenient jobsite solutions, and customer-focused service that has helped make the company a respected name in the building supply industry.
The True Cost of Healthcare: It’s More Than Premiums
Source: My Benefit Advisor
When employers evaluate their health benefits, the conversation almost always starts, and ends, with premiums. While those costs are highly visible, they represent only a portion of the true financial impact. The bigger, less obvious costs often go unmanaged.
Healthcare doesn’t just affect your balance sheet; it directly influences how your workforce performs every day.
Absenteeism is the most recognizable factor. Employees dealing with unmanaged health conditions, delayed care, or financial barriers to treatment are more likely to miss work. But even more costly is presenteeism—when employees are physically present but not fully productive due to health issues, stress, or fatigue. This silent drain on performance often exceeds the cost of absenteeism yet rarely shows up in traditional reporting.
There’s also the impact on retention. Benefits that feel expensive, confusing, or difficult to access can lead employees to seek opportunities elsewhere. In a competitive labor market, healthcare isn’t just a cost, it’s a key component of your value proposition as an employer.
And then there are downstream financial effects. Poorly managed plans can lead to higher utilization of emergency services, increased specialty drug spend, and delayed diagnoses that result in more complex and costly treatments over time.
The takeaway is simple: focusing solely on premiums provides an incomplete picture. A high-performing benefits strategy looks at total impact—cost, utilization, employee experience, and long-term outcomes.
Employers who take this broader view are better positioned to make informed decisions. By improving access to care, supporting employee engagement, and monitoring trends throughout the year, they don’t just manage costs, they improve performance. Because in the end, the true cost of healthcare isn’t just what you pay, it’s what it prevents, what it enables, and how it shapes the health and productivity of your organization.
The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
Keystone Care A.B.A – New Member Highlight
Golfers and Sponsors Set for Tomorrow’s Tournament
We will be kicking off the weekend with our 14th Annual Golf Tournament tomorrow at the beautiful Berwick Golf Club! Since 2012, this tournament has brought our community together each May for a fun-filled day on the course, and this year is shaping up to be another great one. As with all of our events, this weekend wouldn't be possible without the help of our amazing sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor:
- SERVEPRO of Columbia, Montour, and Sullivan Counties
Additional Sponsors:
- Alexander Family GMC Truck
- American Paper & Suppl
- Atlantic Culinary
- Barry Isett
- Benton Rodeo
- Berwick Golf Club
- Belles Signs
- Blossoms in Bloom by Megan
- Breezeline
- BNI Central PA
- Cole's Hardware
- Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau
- Comfort Suites
- Community Giving Foundation
- Country Fresh Market & Hardware
- First keystone Community Bank
- For The Cause
- Fulton Bank
- Gannon Associates
- Gray Builders
- Hayden Power Group
- Henry Dunn Inc.
- Horst insurance
- Innotek
- Knoebels Amusement Resort
- Kreisher Marshall & Associates
- Lily's House
- Mckonly & Asbury
- My Benefit Advisor / World Kinect
- Original Italian Pizza – Bloomsburg
- Perkins
- Pine Barn Inn
- Preferred Portables
- Quaker Steak & Lube
- Sean Black State Farm Insurance
- Service Electric
- Service First Federal Credit Union
- Sip' N' Stuff
- The Land & Residential Connection
- The Press Enterprise
- Trivium Packaging
- Turkey Hill Inn & Brewing Company
- Walkers Jewelers
- Wild For Salmon
- Zimmer Insurance
We can’t wait to see everyone on the green for a fantastic day of community and competition!
Member News ~ May 21, 2026
Events & Dates:
Camp Victory's 20th Annual Golf Tournament- June 4
Golf for Victory 2026 will be taking place at Frosty Valley with registration starting at 11am. Visit their website to register.
The Berwick Historical Society is Hosting a House Tours of Berwick event for American 250 -June 13 and 14
Penn College Essential Welding Skills Clinic - June 15 through 17
Essential Welding Skills is a 4-module stackable training pathway offered through Penn College's Workforce Development division. Each module builds on the last. Participants who complete the full pathway leave with process-specific AWS qualifications and the skills to compete for welding jobs across Central Pennsylvania's manufacturing and construction sectors. No prior experience is required to begin. Learn More & Apply Today.
The Women's Center Educational Event- June 23
Join the Women's Center from 9am - 3:30 pm at the Hub at Mulberry Mills for an Educational Event focused on understanding the realities and intersections of Elder Abuse and learning how communities can respond and support survivors. Register Here.
Lily's House Offering Pet First Aid & CPR - June 27
The demonstration will be led by Dr. Nancy Dreschel and limited seating is available. The Class will begin promptly at 10:00am. See the flyer for more details.
Announcements:
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodrick Realty Announces Award Winners
Kevin Hodrick, Broker, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodrick Realty, of the Danville office announced the monthly awards for April 2026. The awards for the sales associate with top production in listings was presented to Carla Farley and sales also went to Liz Masich. Congratulations Carla & Liz.
Montour Area Recreation Commission and Talen Energy Announce Actions to Support the Current and Long-term Operation of the Montour Preserve
Talen Energy (Talen) and the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) announced that they have taken additional steps to support the current and long-term operation of the Montour Preserve recreation area through an updated and enhanced lease agreement. The new agreement significantly extends the lease term, shifts the responsibility for certain capital improvement projects to Talen, and funds the Montour Preserve’s 2026 operating expenses.
Managing the aftereffects of being scammed By First Keystone Community Bank May 2026
First Keystone Community Bank recently addressed the effects scam can have on a person and how to take measures to avoid becoming a victim by visiting several of the bank’s 19 branches during Scam Survival Week, May 11-15. Read the full press release here.
Service 1st Announces Future Site in Berwick, PA
Service 1st Federal Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Berwick, PA. The credit union recently purchased land located at 2295 West Front Street, Berwick, PA. More details will be announced as plans are finalized. Click here to stay updated as plans progress.
Danville Arts Council Announces 2026 Summer Concert Series at Memorial Park
The annual Summer Concert Series will return to Memorial Park this summer, offering a series of free live music for the community to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs and spend Tuesday evenings listening to a variety of local and regional performers in the heart of Danville. For more information, visit www.VisitDanvillePA.org
Bloomsburg School District - What's So Cool About Manufacturing- Best of PA Award Nominee
Congratulations to the WSCM Student Team from Bloomsburg School District who are advancing to the WSCM State Awards for their "Best of PA" nomination. This year Bloomsburg students were paired with local Manufacturer, SEKISUI KYDEX. Good Luck Bloomsburg!
Danville Memorial Day Events- May 19 through 25
The Montour County Veterans Affairs Office released the 2026 schedule for Memorial Day Events. The Ceremonies will start on Tuesday May 19th and conclude on May 25th. Click here for full details
Cooper Electric Offers LED High Bay Upgrades for a Limited Time Through May 31
Now through May 31st, Cooper Electric is offering a special LED High Bay upgrade for the outdated HD or fluorescent lights for your business. To find out how you can take advantage of this offer, reach out to Jason Troutman at 570-317-1297 or email him at jason.troutman@cooper-electic.com.
Mamoth Recycling E-Waste Recycling Day set in Berwick - June 6
Mamoth Recycling will hold an E-Waste Recycling Day from 10am-1pm at its facility in the BIDA Complex (117 Powe House Rd, Berwick PA 18603) in partnership with Rep. Robert Leadbetter.
Susquehanna Valley United Way's 5th Annual Recovery Picnic - June 11th
Montour Night Out - June 11
Community members are invited to attend Montour Night Out on Thursday, June 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Danville Area High School football stadium. This annual event brings together first responders, community organizations, and local partners for an evening focused on community connection, safety awareness, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can expect a variety of interactive displays, opportunities to meet local police, fire, and emergency personnel, and learn more about the services available throughout the region.
Willows Vending – New Member Highlight
Willows Vending brings convenient, dependable refreshment solutions to workplaces, businesses, and community spaces with a service approach rooted in people first. More than simply placing vending machines, Willows Vending focuses on understanding the needs of the individuals and organizations it serves. Whether supporting employees during a busy workday, offering guests quick access to snacks and beverages, or helping shared spaces feel more welcoming, Willows Vending provides practical self-service options designed around everyday comfort, accessibility, and convenience. It is their goal to have an option for all people, paying special attention to items that accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, which you do not typically see in traditional vending machines.
What sets Willows Vending apart is its focus on dependable service, accessibility, and personalized vending solutions that support both organizations and the individuals within them. Quality vending services can improve employee satisfaction, reduce time away from work areas, and create a more comfortable experience for staff, customers, and visitors. As the need for convenient, flexible refreshment options continues to grow, Willows Vending remains dedicated to helping local businesses and community spaces provide reliable vending services, fresh food options, and everyday convenience with a personal touch. Willows Vending also works to support the strength of the community around them, working with local restaurants and vendors to stock their products in the Willows Vending Smart Markets. Allowing small businesses option to display their products in this unique environment has the potential to allow their reach to go beyond the store front without stretching beyond their resource capacity. This is one of the core values Willows Vending operates from; The only way to change the world for the better is to strengthen the communities we live in and change the way we educate our children.
Member News ~ May 14, 2026
Events & Dates:
Danville Memorial Day Events- May 19 through 25
The Montour County Veterans Affairs Office released the 2026 schedule for Memorial Day Events. The Ceremonies will start on Tuesday May 19th and conclude on May 25th. Click here for full details
SHRMA Chapter Meeting- May 21st
The May chapter meeting will take place on Thursday, May 21st at the CSIU (90 Lawton Ln, Milton, PA 17847) from 7:45am - 9:30am. Breakfast and networking begin at 7:15 AM. Register Here
Bloomsburg Public Library "Pages to Pavement" Color Run- May 30th
Pages to Pavement is hitting the ground running (and walking!) in a burst of color, all in support of your local libraries! This untimed, all-ages color run features a 5K and a 1-mile option, making it perfect for everyone. **If you register after May 15, you may receive a plain white t-shirt instead of a printed race t-shirt.**
Montour Night Out - June 11
Community members are invited to attend Montour Night Out on Thursday, June 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Danville Area High School football stadium. This annual event brings together first responders, community organizations, and local partners for an evening focused on community connection, safety awareness, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can expect a variety of interactive displays, opportunities to meet local police, fire, and emergency personnel, and learn more about the services available throughout the region.
Susquehanna Valley United Way's 5th Annual Recovery Picnic - June 11th
Golf Tournament Benefitting Ronald McDonald House- June 11
The 34th Annual Andrew Schmid Memorial Golf Tournament is set to take place at Frosty Valley on June 11th. This year's tournament will benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Danville. For more information click here.
Announcements:
Service 1st Announces Future Site in Berwick, PA
Service 1st Federal Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Berwick, PA. The credit union recently purchased land located at 2295 West Front Street, Berwick, PA. More details will be announced as plans are finalized. Click here to stay updated as plans progress.
Danville Arts Council Announces 2026 Summer Concert Series at Memorial Park
The annual Summer Concert Series will return to Memorial Park this summer, offering a series of free live music for the community to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs and spend Tuesday evenings listening to a variety of local and regional performers in the heart of Danville. For more information, visit www.VisitDanvillePA.org
Bloomsburg School District - What's So Cool About Manufacturing- Best of PA Award Nominee
Congratulations to the WSCM Student Team from Bloomsburg School District who are advancing to the WSCM State Awards for their "Best of PA" nomination. This year Bloomsburg students were paired with local Manufacturer, SEKISUI KYDEX. Good Luck Bloomsburg!
Mamoth Recycling E-Waste Recycling Day set in Berwick - June 6
Mamoth Recycling will hold an E-Waste Recycling Day from 10am-1pm at its facility in the BIDA Complex (117 Powe House Rd, Berwick PA 18603) in partnership with Rep. Robert Leadbetter.
SEDA-COG Opens Public Comment Period for Transportation Improvement Program – Through May 22
SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) has opened the public comment period for its Draft Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2027-2030, which outlines planned transportation projects across the region, including roadway, bridge, transit, bicycle, pedestrian, and freight improvements. Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback through May 22, 2026. A public meeting to review the plan and gather input will be held on May 4 from 9:00–10:00 AM at the Union County Government Center in Lewisburg, with virtual attendance options available. View related documents and information here.
McKonly & Asbury Webinar: AI Without the Hype - May 28
McKonly & Asbury will host a free webinar, “AI Without the Hype: A Practical Framework for Governed, Real-World Adoption,” on Thursday, May 28 at 2:00 PM EDT. Led by Adam Marsh, this session will provide a practical, step-by-step approach to integrating AI within organizations, focusing on governance, efficiency, and long-term knowledge retention. Attendees will gain insight into establishing AI policies, reducing operational inefficiencies, and building institutional intelligence that supports sustainable growth. One Information Technology CPE credit is available, and no prerequisites are required. Register here.
Cooper Electric Offers LED High Bay Upgrades for a Limited Time Through May 31
Now through May 31st, Cooper Electric is offering a special LED High Bay upgrade for the outdated HD or fluorescent lights for your business. To find out how you can take advantage of this offer, reach out to Jason Troutman at 570-317-1297 or email him at jason.troutman@cooper-electic.com.
LCBC hosting annual Global Leadership Summit - August 6 & 7
For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. LCBC will be hosting this virtual summit at their Columbia - Montour Campus on August 6-7. Learn more.
Geisinger Hosts New Resident Welcome Fair - June 22
Geisinger’s Graduate Medical Education program will host its New Resident Welcome Fair on Monday, June 22 from 6:00–8:00 PM on Mill Street in Danville, offering local businesses and organizations the opportunity to connect with more than 200 new resident and fellow physicians, along with their families and colleagues. Interested participants can host a free table to showcase their business or services. Registration is required by June 1. Register here.
Foundation Forward: An Update From Your CMCC Foundation
Welcome to the first of many updates from your Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Since its founding in 1992, the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce has developed programs that focus on workplace wellness, leadership and skills development, and career exploration. As a 501(c)3 charitable organization and subsidiary of the Chamber, the Foundation is intimately tied to the priorities of the Chamber and its members, while remaining laser-focused on programming which inspires the 21st-century workforce and strengthens the bridge between business, industry, and education.
Your CMCC Foundation has been busy...so let us catch you up to speed.
Discover how local students are building the future through hands-on STEM education in the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation’s Sea, Air & Land Challenge. From designing custom land rovers to exploring careers in engineering, aviation, and robotics, this inspiring program gave nearly 50 students the opportunity to turn classroom learning into real-world innovation. Read how community partnerships, local sponsors, and dedicated educators came together to create an unforgettable experience that is shaping the next generation of STEM leaders. Click here to view the full story.
Leadership Central Penn’s newest graduating class recently celebrated the completion of a transformative nine-month leadership journey at the Berwick Golf Club. Through hands-on professional development, community engagement, and leadership training, participants strengthened their skills while building meaningful connections across the region. Read how each group’s community service project reflected the collaboration, creativity, and dedication fostered throughout the program and learn why Leadership Central Penn continues to shape the next generation of community leaders. Read the full story here.
Educator in the Workplace Sign-up Deadline
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation is now accepting registrations for its Educator in the Workplace (EIW) program, with the deadline to sign up set for May 15. This immersive professional development opportunity connects educators with local businesses and industries throughout Columbia and Montour Counties, giving participants firsthand insight into today’s workforce needs. Through workplace visits and interactive experiences, educators gain valuable knowledge they can bring back to the classroom to better prepare students for future careers. Click here for more information.
Leadership Central Penn Graduates 22 New Industry Leaders
BERWICK GOLF CLUB -- The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Foundation recently celebrated the graduation of its latest Leadership Central Penn (LCP) class at the Berwick Golf Club following the completion of the program’s nine-month leadership experience. Throughout the program, participants engaged in professional development opportunities, community education, and leadership training designed to strengthen connections and inspire future community leaders across the region. As part of the graduation ceremony, each group presented its community service project, showcasing the collaboration and dedication developed throughout the program. The day concluded with a few words of wisdom from community leader Brian Knoebel.
Throughout the program, participants worked closely with local nonprofit organizations and community partners to create meaningful service projects that would have a lasting impact across the region. This year’s class partnered with several organizations, including The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, Ronald McDonald House of Danville, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, Leadership Through STEM, and Camp Victory. Each project highlighted the participants’ commitment to community engagement and leadership while supporting organizations that make a difference throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.
Graduates reflected on the relationships and leadership skills they developed throughout the nine-month experience. From networking with local business and community leaders to participating in educational sessions focused on regional issues and professional growth, participants gained valuable insight into the importance of collaborative leadership and civic involvement. The program continues to provide emerging leaders with opportunities to strengthen their skills while encouraging them to become active contributors within their communities.
The Foundation was also honored to welcome Sean Black of Sean Black Insurance Agency as the 2026 LCP Class Speaker. Sean shared words of encouragement and leadership advice with graduates as they completed the program and prepared to continue making an impact throughout the region. Leadership Central Penn remains one of the Foundation’s signature leadership development initiatives, helping to cultivate a strong network of future leaders dedicated to strengthening local businesses, nonprofits, and supporting the mission of building vibrant and sustainable communities.
Congratulations to the class of 2026!
Kenneth Andreas - PPL
Sean Black - Sean Black Insurance Agency
MaryBeth Broadt - Bloomsburg University Foundation
Alaina Burns - Geisinger Health System
Melissa Corbin - PA House of Representatives
Sierra Cleaver - SEKISUI KYDEX
Ian Donohue - SEKISUI KYDEX
Nicole Hause - Columbia County Housing & Redevelopment Authority
Danielle Renee Howie - Community Strategies Group
Jackson Jaffin - First Keystone Community Bank
Rebecca Kunkel - Geisinger Health System - Sponsored by Community Strategies Group
Breana LaFountain - Kawneer
Michelle Makar - Commonwealth University Foundation
Wilson Michael - SEKISUI KYDEX
Tessa Moyer - CSIU
Jessica Musselman - Geisinger Medical Center
Naomi Perez - Geisinger Health System
Morgana Slodysko - Columbia Child Development Program
Cassandra Smith - The Women’s Center Inc.
Jamie Smith - Maria Joseph CCC
Rylie Thomas - Livic Civil
Trevor Welsh - Livic Civil
Thank you to all of our generous LCP Sponsors:
- Breezeline
- Columbia Montour Vo-Tech
- Community Giving Foundation
- Community in Schools Pennsylvania
- First Keystone Community Bank
- Fulton Bank
- Geisinger
- Service 1st
Interested in participating in the next LCP class? Applications are live on our website! Click here to apply. For more information about the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation and its educational initiatives, visit Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation