​The Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce concluded 2024 with considerable changes implemented throughout the year. The structure of the Board of Directors was revised, introducing new Bylaws, Policies, and number of Board Seats. In a move to align more closely with our mission, the Annual Golf Tournament was canceled and replaced by a local business and community expo, highlighting services and events in the greater Eagle River area during the summer season. We also adopted new software for two events to enhance efficiency, long-standing partnerships were strengthened, a new revenue stream is underway, and the Bear Paw Festival benefited from an enhanced communications plan that will significantly elevate the 40th anniversary celebration in 2025!

 

2024 Summary

Administrative

1. Staffing:

   • The Chamber maintains a team consisting of one full-time and one part-time staff member throughout the year. Additionally, during the Bear Paw Festival, a part-time summer intern and a small event crew (for four days) provide supplementary support.

2. Operations:

   • The Chamber and Visitor Center operate year-round, though office hours are limited due to staffing constraints.

3. Staff Training and Development:

   • The Executive Director participated in the Alaska Chamber’s Business Summit.

   • Staff continues to receive instruction in QuickBooks, Artificial Intelligence applications, Chamber Leadership and more.

4. Communications & Digital Presence:

   • The format of the 2024 Weekly Chamber Newsletter was refreshed to improve readability and engagement.

   • Development of a new Chamber of Commerce website and membership database for the CERCC is underway.

5. Executive Director Recognition:

   • The Executive Director was honored with the Top 40 Under 40 Award.

 

Events

1. Chamber Lunch Forums:

   • Hosted 12 forums this year, including a Legislative Forum.

2. Spring into Summer Expo (New):

   • Launched the first annual Spring into Summer Expo, highlighting local seasonal job opportunities, events, activities, summer camps and childcare, and local services. The event also provided exposure for other local non-profits.

3. Excellence in Education Awards:

   • In its 20th year, the award dinner is an event hosted in partnership with the CER Foundation, honoring 12 exceptional ASD staff members from our Chugiak and Eagle River schools.

4. Bear Paw Festival – 39th Annual:

   • The Chamber’s largest fundraising event of the year.

   • This year’s festival featured an enhanced communications plan with expanded social media and traditional platform coverage, increased sponsorship recognition, and improved brand continuity across festival events.

5. Merry Merchant Munch – 32nd Annual:

   • Annual “Support Local & Shop Small” event.

   • Over 500+ Participants (Munchers)

   • 39+ Participating Merchants

6. Winter Wonderland Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony:

   • A free annual community event, organized in collaboration with the ER/C Parks and Recreation Department. The celebration includes performances by ASD children’s choirs, visits with Santa, tree lighting, horse-drawn carriage rides, and treats provided by local Chamber members.

7. Annual Chamber Dinner & Auction Gala:

   • Rescheduled to February 1st, 2025 to alleviate other Chamber Member event conflict and to better distribute major Chamber fundraisers throughout the year.

8. Grand Openings/Ribbon Cuttings: The Chamber hosted and participated in various openings and ribbon cuttings throughout the great Eagle River area. This is an exclusive benefit to Chamber Members.

 

2024 Membership

In 2024, the Chamber's primary focus has been member retention and service enhancement in preparation for a membership drive planned for 2025, rather than on acquiring new members.

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Current Membership: 239 members  |   New Members Added: 18        

 

Chief Alex Park

The Chamber holds an encroachment permit for Chief Alex Park through DOT Right of Way. We rely on volunteer support for clean-up, flowers, seasonal lawn maintenance, and unexpected repairs.

 

1. Partnership: Established a partnership with ER/C Parks & Recreation, which now assists with seasonal park maintenance, resulting in cost savings.

2. Deferred Maintenance Concerns:

   • Significant maintenance issues have arisen over the past two summers, including extensive underground water pipe repairs and equipment breakdowns.

   • The clock tower remains in disrepair:

     • Additional brickwork improvement is required.

     • A long-term repair solution for the clock is in progress, with an estimated completion and funding plan anticipated for 2025. A community fundraising drive and request for a community grant to help cover these costs is anticipated.

 

Engagement, Promotion, and Advocacy

1. Participation and Support for Local Events:

   • The Chamber actively supported the ER/C Parks and Recreation’s Boo at the Beach community event.

   • “Welcome Home” Event for Olympian Alev Kelter

     • Co-hosted a welcome event in partnership with ASD to honor local Olympian Alev Kelter.

   • Chamber Board of Directors and staff sit on numerous and boards and committees throughout our state. Attendance at community councils and other notable community events allows the Chamber to stay actively engaged and connected.

2. Community Education:

   • Initiated an educational campaign to inform Chamber members and the community about the role of the CERCC.

3. Community Center Project:

   • Participated in planning discussions for a new multi-use community center complex.

4. Relationship with Eklutna Inc.:

   • Engaged in meetings to discuss the Artillery Park and Powder West expansions, local housing issues, gaming, and other community projects in which Eklutna Inc. could play a supportive role.

5. Networking and Regional Collaboration:

   • Attendance at the Alaska Chamber Business Summitt

   • Attendance at partner luncheons throughout the year with AEDC, Visit Anchorage, and five other Chambers of Commerce.

   • Presentation to the Eagle River Area Rotary.

6. Support for Local Resolutions:

   • FLAMI recommendation for management services at the Harry J. McDonald Center.

   • Eklutna Inc.’s grant application to support the Artillery Park Expansion.

   • Support for the Split Rail Fencing initiative.

7. JBER Civic Leadership Program:

   • Executive Director Actively participated as an Honorary Commander with the JBER Civic Leadership Program, attending over eight events throughout the year.

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Closing Out 2024: A Message from the Executive Director

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The chamber industry has undergone significant evolution over the past decade, driven largely by rapid advancements in technology. The COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point, underscoring that, like all non-profit organizations, chambers must adapt swiftly to remain impactful to their Members, Businesses and Community. We have experienced a gradual decline in financial support, and volunteer engagement, which has highlighted the need for adaptability and innovation.

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As a chamber within the Municipality of Anchorage, the Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce occupies a unique position, with other organizations also providing services in areas such as entrepreneurial training, business development and resources, visitor engagement, economic development, and networking. This prompts an important question: How can our organization best serve the distinct needs of the Greater Eagle River community and its businesses?"

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The Chamber acts as a bridge between the business world and the community, playing a crucial role in fostering connections and facilitating collaboration. I believe that the future success of the organization hinges on more extensive collaboration with local partner organizations to minimize overlapping services within the community. Our Chamber always prioritizes enhancing the community we live in through community events and beautification projects, demonstrating our understanding of where we can make the most substantial impact. Despite being a small team with limited financial resources, our effective collaboration has enabled us to achieve meaningful results.

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While our impact may not always be immediately visible to our Chamber Members directly, it is through their commitment—via annual membership dues and sponsorships—that we can continue serving the broader community. As a unique organization, the CER Chamber of Commerce advocates for its members in many non-traditional ways, including:

1. Supporting Local Resolutions: By backing community resolutions that align with member interests—such as zoning changes, infrastructure improvements, or beautification efforts—the Chamber can shape policies that benefit local businesses and the community as a whole.

2. Informal Conversations with Legislators: Engaging in informal conversations with legislators is one way a Chamber of Commerce advocates for its members in non-traditional ways. Rather than formal lobbying, these casual dialogues allow Chamber leaders to build relationships with policymakers and share member concerns organically. This approach fosters trust and goodwill, making it easier to provide insights directly from business owners, helping legislators understand the practical impacts of their decisions on the community.

3. Positive Word-of-Mouth and Image Building: By promoting member businesses in community conversations, social media, and at public events, the Chamber can shape a positive image for its members, helping to build a supportive network and attract more community engagement.

4. Collaborating on Community Projects: Partnering with other local organizations on initiatives such as youth programs, job fairs, or neighborhood improvement projects strengthens ties within the community and demonstrates the Chamber’s commitment to making a difference.

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To conclude, these non-traditional advocacy efforts not only keep our members' interests front and center but also strengthen the Chamber’s role as a collaborative partner in building a vibrant community. Though we are a small organization, our impact is substantial, and we remain committed to evolving with our members’ needs. If you would like to learn more, volunteer, or explore a seat on the Board of Directors, please feel free to contact me!

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Wishing you a fantastic end to your 2024 year!

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Britney Olsen, Executive Director

Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce

executivedirector@cer.org