About the Chamber
The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce is the “voice of business” for the Alberni Valley. Registered under the federal Boards of Trade Act, the chamber is a membership-driven organization focused on continually improving the business climate in the community.
Our VISION
Our vision is to make the Alberni Valley a leading business-friendly community in BC.
OUR MISSION
We support and promote our business community, through advocacy, education and communication.
Accomplished through:
• Supporting and promoting members and the business community at large
• Being the focal point for tourism and visitor services
• Advancing the general welfare of the community.
Chamber Committees
Membership Committee:
- Tasked with maintaining our general membership and attracting new members to the Chamber as well as maximizing membership benefits and communications.
- Chair: Laurie Smillie (Bulldogs)
Business Committee:
- Tasked with improving the business climate in the Alberni Valley
- Projects on the go:
- "Shop Alberni" campaign, Nov.1 – Dec.31/11
- Developing a "White Paper" on business in the Alberni Valley
- Researching feasibility of an Alberni Economic Development Corporation
- Committee members:
- Neil Malbon, Peter Wienold (Graphics Factory), Siedo Tzogoeff (consultant), Will Pullford (Van Isle Ford), Bob Kenngiesser (retired), Don Ferster (Jim's Clothes Closet), Wayne Creelman Hummingbird Guesthouse and Charters), Kim Heeks (Lube X), Patrick Deakin (Economic Development Manager)
Junior Achievement Committee:
- Tasked with delivering the provincial Junior Achievement program in SD 70 schools.
- A volunteer team of "mentors" present "business in the real world" classes to SD 70 students. Volunteers always welcome.
- Co-chairs:
- Cherie Williams (Scotia Bank), Rob Duncan (Duncan, Sabine, Collyer Accountants)
Fantasy Auction Committee:
- Tasked with Organizing and staging the Chamber’s annual fund-raising event, the Fantasy Auction.
- Committee Chair:
- Linda Whiteman
Alberni Valley Tourism:
- Tasked with operating a destination marketing organization to promote the Alberni Valley externally.
- Guided by the Alberni Valley Tourism Council (local tourism leaders)
- Committee Chair:
- Jonathan Cross (Hospitality Inn)
Visitor Center
The Chamber also holds a fee-for-service contract with the City of Port Alberni to house and operate the Visitor Centre. This is a fully sanctioned Tourism BC information centre, offering first line, professional travel counselling and information for potential investors.
Our mandate is to promote events, attractions and services available within the Alberni Valley and deliver first class travel counselling to visitors and locals, alike. Our Visitor Centre brochure racking services prove most valuable to businesses of all kinds in the region. We are the regional SuperHost Program delivery organization.
As the voice of business in the valley, our success is directly dependant upon membership strength. We invite you to enquire about the many benefits offered through chamber membership.
Our contact information:
Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
2533 Port Alberni Highway
Port Alberni, BC V9Y 8P2
Email: avcoc@alberni.net
Web: www.avcoc.com
Ph: 250-724-6535
Fax: 250-724-6560
