Area Chambers looking for new ways to be relevant in business world

Interesting story this morning from the Buffalo News on struggles faced by chambers of commerce in the region  in recruiting and retaining members.

Part of the problem is the increasingly global and distributed economy, and part if it is the "bowling alone" syndrome.

Local quotes:

At the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, the nearly 900 members pay dues that start at $190 per year. Chamber President Lynn Freeman said about 80 percent of members are 50 years old and up, and 20 percent are under 50. But beyond the age discrepancy, he said there is more pressure than before to produce results and show younger members “that this is not an old man’s club.”

In Genesee County, the chamber and the Junior Chamber, an unconnected group of 21-to 39-year-olds, are mutually beneficial, said Melissa George, the 2006 president of Batavia Area Junior Chamber. George, who is executive assistant for the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, said the JC promotes chamber of commerce membership.

We say: Join the Chamber.  Join Rotary or the Lions or get involved with a literacy program or the animal shelter.  There are all kinds of civic and community groups that need your support.  Involvement and engagement is what fosters strong communities, drives the local economy, reduces crime and increases property values ... in other words, there are any number of "selfish" reasons to get involved beyond just plain feeling good about helping out and doing the right thing.