Juniata Valley Area Chamber of Commerce

The Juniata Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents and businesses within the Juniata River Valley region of Pennsylvania. Established in 1941, the organization serves Mifflin and Juniata Counties, fostering a vibrant and collaborative business community.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the Juniata Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is to lead, promote, and represent the economic interests of the local area. Through various programs and initiatives, the chamber aims to:

• Facilitate networking opportunities among local businesses
• Provide advocacy and support for commercial interests
• Enhance leadership development within the community
• Offer educational resources to local workforce and businesses

Membership and Community Impact

The chamber boasts a diverse membership base of nearly 600 local businesses and organizations. This network plays a critical role in supporting the region's economy, which is characterized by its rural landscape filled with farms, small communities, and key industries. Notably, the chamber highlights significant local businesses, including North America's only producer of forged steel wheels for railcars and the largest kosher poultry producer in the nation.

In addition to business advocacy, the chamber is involved in community programs that prepare future workforce members by collaborating with local schools. These initiatives are designed to ensure that the region's economy remains robust and that its residents have access to meaningful employment opportunities.

Events and Activities

The Juniata Valley Area Chamber of Commerce organizes a variety of events aimed at fostering community engagement and promoting local commerce. These events include:

• Business expos and trade shows
• Networking mixers and professional development workshops
• Community celebrations and festivals to engage local residents

Location and Historical Significance

The chamber operates from the historic courthouse in Lewistown, which serves as a hub for both the chamber and the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. This building has been a vital part of the community since its construction in the mid-19th century, hosting various public events and gatherings throughout its history.

As a key entity in the region, the Juniata Valley Area Chamber of Commerce not only supports the local economy but also strives to enhance the overall quality of life for those living in Mifflin and Juniata Counties.

[1] https://jrvchamber.com/chamber-category/about-the-chamber/ [2] https://jrvvisitors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/HistoricCourthouse-1.pdf [3] https://juniatarivervalleycommunityprofile.centralpennsylvania.online [4] https://business.huntingdonchamber.com/list/member/juniata-river-valley-chamber-of-commerce-visitors-bureau-2225 [5] https://jrvvisitors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Walk-Around-Historic-Lewistown-Brochure.pdf