To our valued members:
We at the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce want to express our sincere appreciation for your investment in our mission to promote the economic vitality of Edmonds. We know that you, our dedicated members, are what makes the Edmonds Chamber great, and recent weeks have proven this to be true.
We have seen our business and non-profit leaders step up to serve the community in selfless ways, all while being uncertain about their own futures. The Chamber leadership are deeply inspired by the generosity, creativity, and collaborative efforts of this community. We are even more motivated to contribute toward a future Edmonds more resilient than before.
As an independent non-profit organization, the Edmonds Chamber has always sought to strengthen this community by connecting businesses, government, education and residents to vital information and to each other. We have not and will not waver from this mission.
Getting Even More Creative to Serve You
In coordination with the Edmonds Chamber Foundation, we expanded the scope and capacity of the WISH Fund during this time of large-scale business interruption. This expansion will provide $10,000 in small grants to local businesses seeking professional services, in order to better position themselves for long-term success. Learn more and apply here.
We are staying connected to our state, federal, and local officials for updates about the COVID-19 crisis and business support programs. Valuable links and resources have been added to the Chamber website and our Facebook page is filled with up-to-date announcements, resources, business shout-outs, and uplifting local stories.
Distance Does Not Mean Separation
In typical times, we pride ourselves in providing ample opportunities for members to connect with one another in person. Our weekly networking breakfasts are well-attended and lively, our luncheons are informative and engaging, our happy hours are just plain fun! Of course, all of these events have been put on hold or significantly altered. But we are still connecting!
The Wednesday Networking Breakfasts have moved to an online platform so you can maintain your personal and professional connections from the safety of your home. We are live each Wednesday at 8:00 am via Zoom. You can find the link in our weekly newsletter, on the event page at our website, or our Facebook page 30 minutes before each meeting.
Keeping the Chamber Active
We understand many in the community are facing uncertainty. So is the Chamber, as our operations are fully funded by membership dues and sponsorships. Luckily the CARES Act and SBA disaster loans will offer some relief and assistance to our business community but unfortunately as a 501(c)6 organization, the Edmonds Chamber is not eligible to receive benefits from either of these programs.
Therefore, we are asking every member able to continue supporting the Chamber’s efforts financially, please do so. If due for an annual renewal but concerned about the upfront expense, consider switching to a monthly or quarterly payment plan to spread out the cost of membership (see here). If that is not possible now – we understand – please reach out so we can arrange a plan to keep your membership active. Working with our members on an individual basis is what we strive for, always!
Hope on the Horizon
Despite current circumstances, we are hopeful about the future. This is an incredibly caring and resilient community. This is also a city that knows how to celebrate! An Edmonds Kind of 4th, Taste Edmonds, the Edmonds Classic Car Show, Halloween Trick-or-Treat, and Tree Lighting Ceremony: all of these beloved Chamber-produced events – made possible with your continued support – remain on the horizon. Imagine how special it will be when we can all come together as a community again.
Thank you for your support and participation in the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce. We truly are stronger together, even when we have to stay at least six feet apart!
Sincerely,
Greg Urban, Alicia Moreno, Erica Sugg and the Board of Directors
