Have you ever seen the TV show “Mythbusters”? These two guys, who are a little nutty, build contraptions and perform experiments to prove or disprove a myth about something. Such as tying enough helium balloons to a lawn chair with a person sitting in it, the chair, and individual, will eventually float. Well, this article is “Mythbusters”, St Marys Chamber style.

With the population of St Marys growing constantly, and the average age of a business owner dropping, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to recruit Chamber members. Individuals are not as knowledgeable about the Chamber, and what benefits it can bring to a business. This is where I come in.

Since I have been with the Chamber, I have heard a couple of “myths” or misconceptions about our organization. This article is going to set the record straight.

Myth #1: The Chamber is a part of the city government. – This is the misconception I hear the most. The Chamber is NOT a government organization. We do work closely with the city and county governments on a number of different projects, and many city and county officials are members of the Chamber. However, the St Marys Area Chamber of Commerce does not operate with the tax dollars of St Marys citizens.

Myth #2: The St Marys Chamber supports political issues and candidates. – While the United States and Ohio Chamber show support for various political causes and candidates, the St Marys Area Chamber of Commerce chooses to remain neutral.

Myth #3: The St Marys Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization capable of obtaining grants. – Yes and no, the St Marys Chamber is a 501c6 non-profit organization. This means we are a non-profit funded by a dues paying membership. While some grants are available to Chambers of Commerce, most are only applicable to non-profit organizations with a 501c3 status.

Myth #4:  The St Marys Chamber is here to promote all businesses in St Marys whether they are a member or not.  Yes and no, the St Marys Chamber of Commerce is a member supported organization.  We promote and support our member businesses.  If someone calls for a recommendation, we ONLY recommend our members.  We indirectly support non-members because we support the strengthening the local economy.

Myth #5: The St Marys Area Chamber is a great organization to help promote your business. – I must confess that this really isn’t a myth, but actually a belief I have. Many businesses see the Chamber and think of Golf Outings and Awards Banquets, but there is so much more. Networking, Credibility, Visibility, etc. I could go on and on, but I am close to running out of room.

My Challenge to you is to check out what the chamber can do for your business.  Stop in and see Tim or I, or call and ask us to stop in.  We’d love to tell you about the chamber and what how we can help you out. Everyone benefits by the more people that get involved. And lastly, if you hear someone mention Myths 1, 2, 3,  or 4…BUST IT!!