The Chamber: A Commitment to Economic Prosperity and Quality of Life

The Chamber stands as a beacon of economic progress, dedicated to nurturing a business-friendly environment and enhancing the living standards in our region. Our Board of Directors, a diverse group of volunteers from various sectors of commerce, embodies a deep commitment to the community and the Chamber’s mission. They are the driving force behind our direction, striving to create a thriving locale where businesses flourish and families enjoy a vibrant lifestyle.

WHY WE EXIST 
​A​merican free enterprise has contributed to our citizens having one of the highest standards of living in the world, unsurpassed economic prosperity, and its people being the most generous in the world! Free enterprise fosters competition, which means that more companies open up, more innovation, more jobs, our quality of life increases, and our communities get stronger. Private property, economic freedom, economic incentives, competitive markets, and the limited role of government are the characteristics of a free enterprise system. Our Chamber's existence reflects our fervently-held belief that the health of the business community and the health of larger community in which it lives are inseparable. And our work – of safeguarding free enterprise and providing the tools that business need to succeed – is central to the success of the community as a whole.

MISSION DRIVEN 
While a corporation’s success is measured by its bottom line and stock value, a nonprofit organization’s success is measured by its ability to achieve its mission. The Chamber's mission statement establishes its purpose with both passion and conviction. Our mission is aspirational and tells us why we exist. It is the foundation upon which all plans and decisions are made.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is to champion economic prosperity, foster a pro-business climate, and to improve the quality of life in our region.

VISIOIN STATEMENT

To be universally recognized for our unique and invaluable role in helping businesses prosper and helping our communities thrive.

WE  EXIST TO Be:

• A Catalyst for business growth,
• A  Convener for leaders and influencers,
• And a  Champion for stronger communities.

Board Member Responsibilities:

• Consistent Participation: Attend all board meetings and significant events.
• Informed Engagement: Stay well-informed about the Chamber’s mission, services, policies, and programs.
• Preparation: Review agendas and materials before meetings.
• Active Contribution: Serve on committees, take on special assignments, and make financial contributions.
• Advocacy: Promote the Chamber and suggest potential board nominees.
• Continuous Learning: Keep abreast of developments within the Chamber’s field.
• Ethical Governance: Adhere to conflict-of-interest and confidentiality policies.
• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate with the CEO on long-term goals and strategies.
• Executive Oversight: Supervise the President and CEO, who manages staff and daily operations.

Recommended Reading/Viewing for Board Members:

• ​The Secret to Building an Effective Chamber Board/CEO Relationship (2 minute video)
• Defining the Chamber Brand (3-minute Video)
• HORIZON INITIATIVE: Nine Influences Shaping the Next Decade for Chambers of Commerce” (PDF)

Fundamental Nonprofit Board Duties:

• Mission Definition: Craft and periodically review the mission statement.
• Executive Selection: Conduct a thorough search for the chief executive.
• Executive Support: Provide the necessary support and evaluation for the chief executive.
• Strategic Planning: Engage in and monitor the effectiveness of planning processes.
• Program Oversight: Ensure programs align with the mission and assess their impact.
• Financial Stewardship: Secure and manage resources to support the mission.
• Board Development: Recruit and evaluate board members to maintain a competent board.
• Legal and Ethical Compliance: Uphold legal standards and ethical norms.
• Public Relations: Enhance the organization’s reputation and public support.

Legal Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards:

Board members are expected to adhere to the principles of nonprofit law, encompassing:

• Duty of Care: Exercise prudent judgment in decision-making.
• Duty of Loyalty: Prioritize the organization’s interests without personal conflicts.
• Duty of Obedience: Remain true to the organization’s mission and manage funds accordingly.

Board Eligibility:

Individuals ineligible to serve on the Board include:

• Convicted felons
• Elected officials
• Government employees