WASHINGTON, D.C. — At its board meeting last week, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded the Accreditation designation to 19 chambers of commerce for their sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on their communities.“Chambers of commerce that achieve an Accreditation designation are truly leaders in their industry” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM.  “When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming Accredited, it is 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, and 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.  They are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise, and for their commitment to serving members and their local businesses.  Congratulations on this tremendous accomplishment.”The U.S. Chamber's Accreditation Program facilitates continuing excellence in the chamber industry and fosters 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 6-9 months to complete. Local and regional chambers are rated “Accredited,” “Accredited with 3 Stars,” “Accredited with 4 Stars,” or “Accredited with 5 Stars.” State chambers are rated “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, and chamber CEOs from across the country. The following chambers of commerce received accreditation:Accredited with 3 Stars Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce (Ringgold, GA)Coppell Chamber of Commerce (Coppell, TX)Accredited with 4 StarsBastrop Chamber of Commerce (Bastrop, TX)Miramar-Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce (Pembroke Pines, FL)Newton Chamber of Commerce (Covington, GA)The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Area) (Schertz, TX)Accredited with 5 StarsCentral Delaware Chamber of Commerce (Dover, DE)Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce (Flower Mound, TX)Grand Island Chamber of Commerce (Grand Island, NE)Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce (Cheyenne, WY)Greater Shreveport Chamber (Shreveport, LA)Greater Tomball Chamber of Commerce (Tomball, TX)Jackson County Chamber of Commerce (Marianna, FL)Jefferson Chamber of Commerce (Metairie, LA)Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce (Mobile, AL)OneAcadiana (Lafayette, LA)Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce (Sterling, IL)Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce (Thibodaux, LA)Accredited State Chamber with DistinctionState Chamber of Oklahoma (Oklahoma City, OK)

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