Chamber Advocacy | Shaun Lumachi | Chamber of Commerce Consulting

May 2007

Fresno Chamber Recognized as Best Government Affairs Program in California

At the annual Business Legislative Summit hosted by the California Chamber of Commerce the Fresno Chamber was awarded the Advocacy Partner of the Year for its outstanding leadership efforts in being an avid advocate for the business community.

Every year a local Chamber is recognized by the California Chamber for its ability to lead an effective advocacy program by serving as the voice of business within their local community; and this year the Fresno Chamber rose to the top. The California Chamber CEO, Allan Zaremberg stated, "The Fresno Chamber illustrated great energy and effectiveness in working with Sacramento to benefit business."

In late 2005, under the leadership of Ruth Evans, the Chamber began implementing a Government Affairs Program complete with mission and vision statements, goals and long term strategies. The newly formed Government Affairs Council (GAC) was charged with representing the interests of businesses with government at the local/regional, state and federal levels. Since then the Chamber has implemented their own advocacy website - www.fresnochamberadvocacy.com - where the Chamber’s policy platform and legislative issues are listed, along with legislative report cards, and sample letters that can be used to communicate with our elected officials.