Listen Up Blog

With the growth of the Des Moines Metro Area, there are countless options on where to shop, to eat, go find entertainment, find lodging, seek health care and hire various specialty services. When wading though all these options, it is important to be reminded of the benefits of choosing a business or individual that is a member of the local Chamber of Commerce. 

Chamber of Commerce businesses are generally owned, operated or staffed by your neightbors. This means these businesses are invested in the wellbeing of the community and its future. Familiarity between business and consumer naturally creates an added incentive to provide excellent customer service while fostering a high level of trust for the consumer. 

With most Chamber of Commerce members being local businesses, it is important to realize that, on average, for every $100 you spend at local businesses, $68 will stay in the community. 

Chamber businesses are more accountable to their local communities and donate more money to nonprofits. Altoona Chamber of Commerce members are consistently some of the largest and most consistent donors to area causes both large and small. 

Supporting our Chamber businesses makes our community a destination. The more attractive and interesting our community is, the more neighbors and visits we attract. This benefits everyone. 

So the next time you are looking for a particular service, reach for your 2020 Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce Business and Community Guide and support a business that supports the community you live in.

Information provided by Steve Olsen, 2020 Altoona Chamber President