The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce wrapped up its "Chamber Cares" holiday giving campaign by donating $10,000 raised from the business community to its member nonprofits last week.
The Chamber has more than 50 nonprofits that provide a range of services and meet an array of needs in the Southwest Washington community. The month-long fundraising effort was launched after GVCC Annual Dinner & Installation of Officers on Nov. 2 and culminated with the GVCC Ambassador Holiday Giving Breakfast on Dec. 4.
"The need is great and budgets are tight, but thanks to the generosity of our business members we were able to make a difference for our community nonprofits," said GVCC president and CEO Kim Capeloto.
Among the nonprofits supported through the GVCC's efforts are the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southwest Washington and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
The GVCC also congratulated the top donor to its giving campaign, First Independent Bank of Vancouver.
"We're honored to be recognized for our philanthropic efforts," said Stacey Graham, First Independent executive vice president and chief strategy officer. "Giving back is a core value of the bank, both as part of our 100-year history in Southwest Washington and our vision for the future."
Other substantial contributors honored by GVCC were Big Al's, Northwest Personal Training, West Coast Bank and wedding planning company Dreams Come True.
The GVCC Ambassador Holiday Giving Breakfast is held annually in December.
