U.S. Chamber Awards Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation

Beaumont, TX - The United States Chamber of Commerce today awarded the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. There are 7,077 chambers in the United States only 79 are accredited as 5-Star.  

"Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community," said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Executive Director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations.  "We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise."

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.

"We are delighted that the US Chamber has recognized our efforts in the economic development of Southeast Texas," says Jim Rich, President of the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. "I credit our achievements to an innovative Board of Directors, dedicated volunteers and committed staff. We are honored for this recognition and will continue to make a difference."

"As Chairman of the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce I'd like to congratulate past chairmen Nathan Cross and Robert Turner," says Chuck Kalkbrenner, Chairman of the Board. "Their hard work over the past years has paid off and I look forward to keeping with the tradition of serving the businesses of Southeast Texas."

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.

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 Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce serves its members and community as a catalyst to have a positive impact on the economic well-being of Beaumont and the surrounding reg