
As your business and community advocate, the Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce brings businesses together. Part of the value of becoming a Chamber member is being part of an organization that has established successful programs that improve the economic climate and quality of life in Lebanon. Chamber programs are developed to produce a healthy, expanding economy which creates more demand for goods and services, with a united effort to improve the overall well-being of the community and make Lebanon a great place to live and work!
Our Lebanon Chamber Board of Directors include: President; Rick Petersen, Past President; Gary Price, Treasurer; Carol Cromwell, Education Chair; Peter Walker, Greg Nervino, Nancy Chlarson, Dave Madarus, Don Herb, Jennifer Meltzer, Sheriff Tim Mueller, Mel Neufeld, Lori Hill, Wayne Rieskamp, Danette Roberts, Mark Walls, Jason Yutzie and Mayor Ken Toombs (ex Officio).
The Chamber and Visitors Center are staffed by the Executive Director, Shelly Garrett and Office Manager, Mary Meader. The office is open 5 days a week, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. The chamber website is www.lebanon-chamber.org email; shelly@lebanon-chamber.org. The Chamber events calendar has details on all chamber and community events and is located on the website.
Chamber Cornerstone Partners are:
Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital, Linn-Co Federal Credit Union, OSU Federal Credit Union, CenturyLink, Pacific Power, Peak Internet, KGAL-KSHO Radio, Xtreme Graphics, Central Willamette Community Credit Union, Umpqua Bank, Citizens Bank, Western University of Health Sciences.
The Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce has a variety of programs that focus on improving the visibility of your business and allow you to become involved. To get the most of your Chamber membership, consider choosing a committee that is suited to your interests and abilities. Most committees meet as needed, so your commitment can be minimal but still rewarding.
Chamber Committees
The Ambassador Committee is the greeting arm of the Chamber. This active volunteer group promotes business awareness in the community with visitations to new businesses and special ribbon cuttings and grand openings. Ambassadors are also the Chambers Good Will Greeting Arm at Chamber Forum Lunches, Business After Hours and at the annual Distinguished Service Awards Dinner. Ambassadors meet Friday mornings at 9am.
The Government Affairs Committee works to provide business advocacy on local, state and federal issues. Saving tax dollars and supporting pro-business values that strengthen the local economy.
The Economic Development Committee facilitates the development and support of efforts to promote economic health and vitality in Lebanon. This vital committee advocates for and supports city efforts to bring new businesses to Lebanon. Economic Development meets the Fourth Wed of each month at 7:30am at LBCC Lebanon.
The Chamber Education Committee plans, develops and implements educational programs that benefit Chamber Members and the business community as a whole via Chamber Forum Lunch, Seminars, Workshops and other venues that provide information to promote business health and vitality. Representatives of this committee also work closely with the schools on mentoring, job sharing and teacher in-service opportunities. The Chamber Education Committee meets at 1:15pm the last Friday of the month following the Forum Lunch.
To support and promote Lebanon’s Tourism efforts, the Tourism Committee identifies and implements new events and avenues of tourism. This committee works to develop partnerships that increase tourism traffic in Lebanon and East Linn County.
The Women in Business committee members invite professional women to network and join in the fun. Committed to finding engaging and inspiring speakers that discuss topics relevant to our personal and professional lives. The committee selects topics and speakers that carry broad appeal. Community members are invited to attend quarterly lunches.
Annual Chamber Events
Distinguished Service Awards Banquet: The 2nd Tuesday in March our Community joins together to recognize and celebrate Lebanon’s volunteers. Service clubs, non-profit organizations, Veterans, Jaycee’s and the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce honor their outstanding members. Held at the River Center, 3000 S. Santiam Hwy. in Lebanon the evening includes dinner and award festivities.
The Lebanon Economic Summit: This town-hall type of gathering offers the community the opportunity to hear about economic growth and development in Lebanon. The second Tuesday in April at the River Center.
Biz Expo-The 3rd Tuesday in April, over 150 local businesses, agencies and organizations demonstrate their products and services, distribute free samples and give away thousands of dollars in prizes during this huge one-day event that is free to the public. Over 1500 visitors! Music, Entertainment and presentations inside and out! Held at the River Center from 10am to 7pm 3000 S. Santiam Hwy in Lebanon.
The Lebanon Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament: This fun tournament takes place annually at Mallard Creek Golf Course the second Friday in July.
Summer Concerts in the Park: A popular summer tradition for the whole community, the chamber works with a committee that books music venues, raises money and organizes this event. Concerts take place every Tuesday in July at Ralston Park from 6pm to 8:30pm and are free to the community.
Cascade Gateway Leadership, this 9 month class offers a complete introduction to East Linn County and helps creates successful, effective leaders within the community. A great resource for building lasting business relationships and mentoring strong leaders, equipped to influence and shape the positive growth of our community and businesses. The Leadership Class is the first Thursday of the month Sept. thru May.
Independent Business Showcase, the last Tuesday in Sept. at the Lebanon Boys and Girls Club 305 S. 5th St. A showcase featuring independent business, crafters, organizations ready to share their products and services. The event is free to the public.
Monthly Chamber Activities
Business After Hours: Different members of the chamber host Business After Hours at their work location. A great networking opportunity and a chance to win prizes and enjoy delicious refreshments in a casual fun atmosphere. 5pm to 7pm the third Thursday of each month.
Forum Lunch: Sept thru June Chamber members are invited to attend Forum Lunch at the Hospital Training Center from 11:30 to 1pm. Speakers with relevant and timely information that members will benefit from and the opportunity to meet and network with a large number of chamber members. The last Friday of the month.



