What do Charles Lindbergh, gangster Al Capone, and Miss America all have in common?

Believe it or not, a chamber of commerce influenced their lives in some way.

According to research by Chris Mead, the vice president of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives, the St. Louis Chamber of Commerce helped pay for Lindbergh’s flight across the Atlantic. The Chicago Chamber was essential in sending Al Capone to the slammer. And, the Chamber in Atlantic City, New Jersey was responsible for starting the Miss America Pageant.

How cool is that?!

Chambers of commerce are very interesting, and they provide many benefits for communities. But unfortunately they sometimes go unnoticed, especially by young people. In fact, many people may not even know what a chamber is. Before I worked at my local chamber when I was in high school, I had no idea.

However, when you graduate from college, you will most likely have to deal with a chamber of commerce, whether it’s because you start your own business someday, or work for a company that is a chamber member.

So, let's learn a little bit about them!

What is a chamber of commerce?

The dictionary definition: “an association, primarily of businesspeople, to protect and promote the business activities of a city." Basically, a chamber of commerce is a group of people who advocate for businesses in a particular place or community.

What do chambers of commerce do?

Interestingly, chambers of commerce have been around since the 15th century. For hundreds of years, they have helped local businesses flourish through networking opportunities and events. Chambers still operate in a similar way today as they did when they first started. Businesses in a community pay dues to be a member, then they nominate people for the board, and then the board elects a president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary.

While chamber missions vary, they share a common ambition to promote their community and sustain the local businesses. They do this by providing many benefits such as networking, advertising, and sponsorship opportunities, ribbon cuttings, and educational programs.

Along with these wonderful benefits, chambers also organize events for businesses to participate in. For example, in my community, the chamber plans many fun events including an "Olde Fashioned Christmas" event and an annual golf outing.

Why should you love chambers of commerce?

There is a reason that Chambers of Commerce have been around for so long. They have improved the economic development of communities throughout history and will continue to help promote business growth.

Now that you know how Chambers have impacted businesses throughout history, what they do for communities, and the types of events they organize, hopefully you can take advantage of these opportunities when you enter the working world...or maybe even stop by your local chamber and get involved!