The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has expressed appreciation for its Chamber Champions, a group of members recognized for their role in helping new members integrate into the organization. According to the Chamber, these individuals are key in creating connections that support collaboration and growth within the local business community.
“Our Chamber Champions play a big role in these connections, and for that, we want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU!” stated the Chamber. The organization highlighted how these volunteers help new members transition from simply joining to feeling like they belong, noting that their efforts contribute to stronger engagement throughout the community.
A testimonial from Roger Mansourian reflected this impact: “I just wanted to say thank you so much for introducing me to Pete! He’s a great dude and we really hit it off personally and professionally. I just wanted to say I really appreciate it!”
The Chamber Champions Program pairs established members with newcomers during their first six months of membership. These champions serve as liaisons by facilitating introductions, inviting new members to events, and providing guidance. Participants dedicate about an hour each month to mentoring activities intended to build confidence and lasting relationships.
The program also offers benefits for participants, including opportunities for leadership development and expanding personal networks. Matches between champions and new members are arranged based on shared interests or related industries, with support from chamber staff who facilitate introductions.
Members interested in becoming a champion must have at least three years of active participation in the chamber. Those who wish to join can contact Amber at amber@gilbertchamber.com for more information.
The following individuals were recognized as current Chamber Champions: Alice Woodard (Printwerx), Christie Boutain (First Western Bank), Constance Lemere (Employee Benefit Exchange Corp), Jaime Johnson (Leading Edge Preschool), Jän Simon (Foundation Insurance Services), Jane Vela (Landings Credit Union), Jason Diez (CrossCountry Mortgage), Jerry Woods (Six Pixels Studios East Valley Phoenix), Jim Paplaczyk (The American Legion Merrell-Mitchell Post 39), Karen Camblin (Karen Camblin – Guild Mortgage Company), Kevin De Rosa (Advance Champion Supply), Kevin Schrandt (KYBREE Marketing), Leticia Barwick (Meritum Credit Card Processing), Mark Bergerson (Ensign Insurance Partners), Mark Newman (Newman Realty Team Powered By Realty One Group), Mindy Jones (Amy Jones Group), Pete Schraufnagel (Edward Jones – Pete Schraufnagel), Randi Townsend (Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Gilbert), Rob Elder (Granite Bank – The Elder Team), Stuart Preston (Cingularis), Tim Troy (Universal Paper Shredding Services LLC) and Tony Imperiale (FirstBank – East Valley).
