A chamber's role in the community

Clare Scotti.

In June of 2023, I embarked on a journey that would alter my life in every way. I was given the honor of fulfilling the position of Executive Director of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce.

While I was an entrepreneur and had a strong background in marketing, I was new to the role a Chamber of Commerce plays in its community. I quickly learned that every chamber is different and a successful chamber responds to the needs of its local businesses, economy and community. Some chambers focus solely on economic development and job creation, others put their efforts toward local events that bring in needed income, others manage local tourism efforts. When I took on the job, I immediately began to investigate the role that Tehachapi's chamber plays in our community.

No matter how they accomplish their goals, chambers of commerce serve as a vital resource for local businesses and communities, offering a range of benefits that foster economic growth, promote collaboration and create a more vibrant local economy. By providing a platform for businesses to connect, share ideas and access resources, chambers play a crucial role in strengthening both individual businesses and the broader community.

Our chamber accomplishes this by sharing valuable information during monthly luncheons, building up business skills at classes, offering opportunities to collaborate at networking mixers, creating events that bring the community together and promote growth and more. Like many chambers, our team works diligently to provide access to professional development programs, workshops and trainings that help business owners and employees stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

One of the primary benefits of a Chamber of Commerce is its advocacy on behalf of local businesses. Chambers work with government officials to address policies, regulations and legislation that affect the local economy. By ensuring that the needs of small businesses are represented, they help create a favorable environment for growth and sustainability. Not only do we advocate for our businesses, we are also a hub for local references. With hundreds of calls and visitors each year and thousands of website visitors, the Chamber is an essential source for business referrals.

Beyond supporting businesses, a successful Chamber of Commerce plays an integral role in fostering local pride and encouraging residents to shop locally. Our chamber strives to keep the community connected. Through local events, we work to bring visitors and income to the area several times each year. In addition, we initiated a Shop Tehachapi gift card program last year that has encouraged residents to shop local and inject thousands of dollars into the economy.

We are also looking forward to launching a beautiful community calendar sponsored by BHE Renewables and 1st Priority Vehicle Registration Services that will include events and gatherings from more than 25 local entities and organizations.

In the last year and a half, I have learned that a Chamber of Commerce is an essential institution that promotes the growth and success of local businesses, while strengthening the overall well-being of the community. I have learned that our organization is only as strong as our partners and fellow organizations. I've learned that when we work together, we rise together and we weather storms together. By listening and responding to the needs of businesses, we continue to evolve and grow.

I am proud to be part of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce, and I look forward to a new year ahead where the chamber's role will be to continue to serve the community and its amazing businesses.

Clare Scotti is the Executive Director of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce.