It's a new day at the Sisters Chamber

I was asked to assume the Executive Director position at the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce, and I agreed to accept the role because it's my civic duty to ensure the best for my community.

Just like many of you, I love Sisters. I went to high school here, my family is here and most recently I started my own family here. The Chamber is a catalyst for change. With the driven members on the board, positive leadership, and creative and task-oriented staff members - we can accomplish great things through the Chamber for Sisters.

The mission of the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce is to enhance the economic vitality of the community. What does that mean? How do marketing and economic vitality fit together?

Economic vitality is a broad statement. With three core competencies, the Chamber hopes to improve the economic base throughout the Sisters Country: enhancing tourism, partnering with community organizations and businesses to strengthen community, and marketing the Sisters Country to visitors, especially during the shoulder seasons.

As the new Executive Director, I hope to make community the Chamber's initial priority - a rising tide lifts all boats.

Throughout the next 90 days you can measure the Chamber on several of the following:

•Demonstrate direction with measurable goals and objectives for the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce.

•Create a 90-Day Strategic Plan and enhance the 2009 Annual Plan.

•Develop six-month, two-year, and five-year marketing plans utilizing community input.

•Have a complete document which shows the distribution of room tax revenue.

•Improve a sense of community and openness within the Visitors Center.

•Work with staff, volunteers and board members to create an inviting atmosphere, including bringing in artwork and furniture to create a more comfortable feel.

•Institute an "Open Door" policy where community members and visitors alike can voice concerns, hear positive feedback and get information.

•Return phone calls and e-mails within 24 hours or the next business day, with a solution-oriented attitude.

•Build on Chamber events which bring visitors and locals alike to the Sisters Country.

•Create a special event timeline and fill the gaps with unique and creative programs.

•Partner with other non-profits and members to share event information on the Chamber Web site.

•Market the Sisters Country to a broad audience to increase the number of visitors to our area.

•Support the community through partnerships.

•Encourage staff to be in the community and visit with business owners and community members.

•Increase community partnerships with organizations like the City, Sisters Park & Recreation District, the Sisters schools, non-profits and more.

•Offer guidance and support to members and non-members in a fun environment.

So when you ask, what is the Chamber doing? Let us answer that with: "a lot." Better yet, we are a strategic organization focused on community development, marketing the Sisters Country, and enhancing the economy through the entire year by planning more events and programs.

Like what you hear? Do you want to be a part of enhancing the Sisters Community? We rely on community volunteers. Call the Chamber office and we can tell you more about volunteering.

•Once our marketing plans are completed, in February, please feel free to stop in and pick up a copy.

Don't miss our Open House at the Chamber office on Main Avenue, on Thursday, February 19 at 5:30 p.m. Bring your questions and concerns, and most importantly, let us introduce ourselves and share with you what we are all about.

Still have thoughts, comments, questions or concerns? We want to hear them. Call the Chamber office at 549-0251, e-mail us at [email protected], or better yet stop by. We would be happy to talk with you.

Erin Borla is the Executive Director of the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce