We all know that the Olathe Chamber of Commerce is one of the best chambers in the nation, but validation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce certainly feels good.
The Chamber is pleased to announce that after a comprehensive review, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded us with 5-Star Accreditation – again. This prestigious honor puts us among the top 1 percent of chambers nationwide and marks the fourth time we have received the honor.
“Achieving this level of accreditation reaffirms the importance of our mission, our impact on the community and the overall outstanding vision and work of our staff, members, volunteers and community partners,” Olathe Chamber CEO Tim McKeesaid. “We always strive to provide our members with the best value for their investment and the five-star accreditation validates that we’re providing our members an unmatched opportunity.
“As the largest chamber in Johnson County and the second largest in the Kansas City area, we are proud to be one of the only three chambers in the state to be accredited.”
This past year, the Olathe Chamber staff and Board of Directors spent countless hours completing the Accreditation process. Our task was to demonstrate competency in nine core areas ranging from finance to facilities. The result of our hard work is evidenced by this impressive rating. But in truth, we should all be extraordinarily proud of this milestone achievement. It was a true team effort.
The only national program recognizing chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement, accreditation allows us to renew, improve, and promote sound business practices, policies and procedures.
“Accredited chambers of commerce are impactful advocates for the business community,” Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM said. “When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming Accredited, it’s a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership. This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. Accredited chambers are recognized for their ability to serve as a resource to their region’s businesses while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, effective communications and value in programming. It is an extraordinary accomplishment.”
The purpose of the U.S. Chamber’s Accreditation Program is to facilitate continuing excellence in the chamber industry and to foster a pro-business environment across America. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, communications and technology. This extensive self-review can take six to nine months to complete.
This is the fourth time that the Olathe Chamber has earned the highest distinction. We first received accreditation from the U.S. Chamber in 1996 and earned the 5-Star designation the first time it was made available in 2008, and again in 2013 and 2018. Reaccreditation takes place every five years.