Image: Chilliwack Chamber / The Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce staff roster features member engagement specialist Heather Simpson (left to right), executive director Leanna Kemp, administrative assistant Taylor Charlton and events coordinator Jo Holland. The Chamber is marking Chamber Week Feb. 12-17 by highlighting some of the great work it does in the community, from events to advocacy and the annual Business Excellence Awards presentation.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce

Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce champions local business, advocacy as it moves forward in 2024

Feb 13, 2024 | 10:01 AM

CHILLIWACK — The Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce does a lot of work and advocacy behind the scenes.

From flood mitigation advocacy to pressing for a solution to a 2023 transit strike that lasted months, and pushing for a widening of Highway 1, the Chamber remains an active force for good.

During Chamber Week happening Febryary 12-17, the organization tries to let the community know what it does and why it undertakes projects that benefit Chilliwack.

“From the amazing Business Excellence Awards to inspiring International Women’s Day with Olympic rower Madison Mailey, we’re all about bringing the business community together,” the Chamber wrote on its Facebook page. “All this connecting is made possible by a strong staff, executive committee, and board of directors. Whether it’s through expert-led workshops or engaging online content, we’re here to connect you with the resources you need. Working with Chambers from Abbotsford, Langley, and Mission, we’re fighting for better transportation infrastructure essential for our commuters and the commercial sector.”

Chilliwack Chamber staff have pushed for Uber to expand to Chilliwack, which the ridesharing company already has done, and have partnered with SD33 for workforce initiatives involving Chilliwack students.

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Beyond advocacy, the Chilliwack Chamber undertakes video and marketing initiatives that highlight stories of local businesses, hosts the monthly Chamber Connections event at local businesses and venues, and promotes countless Chilliwack businesses through its social media reels.

“Through events like the sold-out Business on the Green, International Women’s Day, and the Business Excellence Awards, we’ve strengthened connections within our community,” the Chamber wrote on Facebook. “Our advocacy wins, notably with the Prompt Payment legislation and transportation improvements, addressing key challenges faced by our members. We celebrated local businesses and individuals, fostering a culture of excellence and inspiration.
Educational initiatives on crucial topics like Indigenous Reconciliation and A.I. furthered our commitment to progress. As we celebrate these successes, we’re geared up for an even more impactful 2024. On behalf of our Board of Directors and Chamber staff, we sincerely thank you for your continued support through membership, sponsorship and event attendance. Let’s keep thriving together!”

The Chilliwack Chamber serves the community thanks to its staff of executive director Leanna Kemp, administrative assistant Taylor Charlton, member engagement specialist Heather Simpson, and events coordinator Jo Holland.

Its executive team is made up of Trevor Pehlke (MNP), Coralee Grimm (Culture Co.), Marlon Hall (Metric), Kayla Murray (KPMG), past president William Klaassen (Blue Giraffe) and Chief Derek Epp.

Image: Chilliwack Chamber / The executive team of board members at the Chilliwack Chamber includes Kayla Murray (left to right) of KPMG, Marlon Hall of Metric Civil Contractors, Coralee Grimm of Culture Co., and Trevor Pehlke of MNP.

Its board members are Alan Martens (Tycrop Trailers), Justin Mallard (Art of Driving School), Kara Bertram (Hunni’s Clothing Boutique), Mike Hayes (Emil Anderson Group), Chris Les (Delta Water Products), Lori Lam (Baker Newby LLP), Kyle Hayhow (Scotiabank), David Adimora (Batiqua), and Julaine Treur (Creekside Cheese + Creamery).