Growing Together: How Culture and Retention Are Shaping the Future of Our Chamber

and How You Can Grow Too

By Erica Matthies, Panora Chamber Coordinator

Over the past 12 months, something incredible has been happening within our Chamber — and within our community.

We’ve seen a shift.

A growth not just in numbers, but in spirit, connection, and purpose.

Our Chamber has evolved from a traditional networking group to a thriving, recognized force in Panora and beyond. We’ve become a hub for collaboration, innovation, and celebration of everything that makes our businesses—and our people—so special.

One of the most important outcomes of this shift?

High retention.

We’ve proudly maintained a strong member retention rate, even as we continue to actively welcome new businesses into our Chamber family.

It’s not just about recruitment—it’s about belonging.

When businesses and leaders feel truly connected to a culture of support and growth, they stay.

They invest. They flourish.

This same principle applies not only to Chambers, but to every business.

When your company culture is strong, your people stay—whether they’re clients, employees, or partners. And when they stay, your business doesn’t just survive, it thrives.

That’s why I’m so excited to personally invite all fellow chamber leaders, business owners, and community builders to join us at the upcoming BOSS Summit (Business Owner Summer Summit) here in Panora and Lake Panorama.

BOSS isn’t just another conference.

It’s an opportunity to dive deep into the heart of what makes organizations sustainable and successful: culture and retention.

You’ll learn practical strategies for building loyalty within your teams, energizing your membership or customer base, and creating an environment where people want to stay, engage, and grow with you.

If you’ve been wondering:

How do we continue building a culture that people are proud to be part of?

How do we retain great people, members, or clients without constantly “re-selling” them?

How can we strengthen the leadership and relationships that fuel long-term growth?Then the BOSS Summit is where you need to be.

Join us as we learn from dynamic experts, connect with fellow leaders, and walk away with toolsthat you can immediately apply to your businesses, your Chambers, and your communities.

Let’s keep the momentum going—together.

I can’t wait to see you there!

Learn more and register here: https://bossiowa.com

#BOSSSummit2025 #CommunityCulture #RetentionMatters #PanoraChamber #GrowTogether