U.S. Chamber Awards Lakeland Chamber with 5-Star Accreditation
Lakeland, FL The United States Chamber of Commerce, at its board meeting last week, awarded the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. This significant achievement marks the 50th consecutive year of accreditation for the Lakeland Chamber.
“It is critical that business leaders have a voice in the debates that will shape the business climate in their communities,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber vice president of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “Accreditation recognizes a chamber’s work to foster a healthy business climate that enhances the quality of life for its members and its community.”
Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.
“I am so extremely proud of our Lakeland Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious distinction proves what I already know – that we have one of the strongest and most respected Chambers around,” said Michelle Ledford, Lakeland Chamber Board Chair. “Our Chamber staff and Accreditation Committee went through a rigorous process to submit a comprehensive application. The result is recognition for the continuing excellence our Lakeland Chamber demonstrates on behalf of its investors every day.”
Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.
“Of the over 7,000 chambers in the United States, only 217 are Accredited. Of those, only 128 have received the 5-star designation, meaning that this recognition places our Chamber in the top 1% of all chambers in the nation,” said Cory Skeates, Lakeland Chamber President & CEO. “This speaks to the dedication of our volunteers, investors, staff, and community. We want to thank the U.S. Chamber for
this honor as we continuously strive to provide the best investor experience possible.”
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce represents 1,400 member businesses in the Greater Lakeland area and provides opportunities for networking, professional development and advocacy for companies of all sizes. Five-Star Accredited by the US Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber upholds the following vision and mission statements:
Vision Statement
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce will be the premier catalyst for the advancement of Lakeland’s economic growth and enhancement of quality of life – creating Florida’s community of choice.
Mission Statement
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce is the leading organization dedicated to creating a climate where businesses can prosper.