Van Buren Chamber Celebrates Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Week

VAN BUREN, AR (October 19, 2020) Governor Asa Hutchinson has proclaimed October 19-23 as Chamber of Commerce Week in Arkansas to recognize the state’s 140 chambers of commerce. For over a century, Arkansas chambers have worked to keep the state growing and successful. Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Week celebrates the leadership our state’s chambers showcase in their communities by playing a pivotal role in building links as business advocates, and by encouraging policies that support business and economic development across The Natural State.   
For the past 65 years, the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce has contributed to the civic and economic life of Van Buren as the City’s leading broad-based business organization and serves as the unified voice for businesses in the area. Founded in the spring of 1955, the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce spans a membership of over 400 local and national businesses and organizations. Businesses such as Citizens Bank & Trust Company, Oklahoma Gas & Electric, and Rhodes Chevrolet Co. were amongst the earliest chamber members, signing up in 1955 and maintaining membership today.
2020 has proved to be a unique year, but regardless of this year’s struggles, the Van Buren Chamber staff and members continue to grow and work together. With a bit of ingenuity and restructure, the Chamber shifted focus in March to helping our members succeed during the pandemic.
 “Our Chamber team which includes Janie Simmons and Ashley Love, our board of directors, our ambassadors and our volunteers work diligently to connect our members with the resources they need to ensure the success of their businesses.” states Julie Murray, President & CEO of the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce. “This year it has been especially important for us to be the connector between our members and the essential tools for navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Week is presented by Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives (AEDCE). “We strongly endorse Gov. Hutchinson’s proclamation recognizing Chamber of Commerce Week in Arkansas,” said Arkansas State Chamber President and CEO Randy Zook. “We partner with the local chambers in the state and recognize the value they provide to their respective communities. Local chambers are the lifeblood – the boots on the ground – that help businesses, nonprofits, banks and industry succeed and thrive. They are vital in helping make Arkansas a better place to live and do business.”
Membership to the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce is available with details located online at vanburenchamber.org or by calling the Chamber office at 479-474-2761.