Welcome to the latest edition of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce annual Community Profile and Membership Directory. Since its formation in 1916, the Chamber has been a source of community information and an advocate for business in our community.
The Chamber’s focus on the well-being of the community has not changed, but the pace and range of what we do has. We are one of the largest business associations in Virginia along the I-81 corridor. Harrisonburg-Rockingham County is consistently one of the top communities in Virginia for population and job growth percentages. We still see plenty of people come into the office looking for information or directions, but the trend is online search and correspondence. The demand for information and assistance is usually real-time. That is one reason this publication is still printed and also available on the Chamber website (www.hrchamber.org).
The global economy is much more connected and interdependent, and our geographic location on the east coast and the benefit of Interstate 81 provides access to business and leisure travelers on a daily basis. Timely and consistent communication to our members and partners is of the utmost importance, but in the age of information and email overload, we are always looking for the right balance. The Chamber’s programs and committees are diverse, more so than ever before, also out of need and demand.
As you read this publication, you will also realize a key reason for our level and pace of activity – growth and development. The local housing market is “hot.” Education is an economic driver in this region, and JMU alone has over $300 million of construction underway as we go to publication. The health care sector shows no signs of slowing down as more people move in, the population ages and technology continues to advance medical diagnostics and treatments. Retail development is trying to keep up with anticipated growth trends.
Our job as community leaders is to work together to keep Harrisonburg and Rockingham County a special place to live, work, visit and play. The Community Profile and Membership Directory gives you a small glimpse of what the Valley and the Chamber have to offer. Please feel free to contact our staff at any time. The Chamber’s Board members, Ambassadors and committee/council leaders are also some of the best resources for information and advice on the community.
In summary, whether you are a life-long resident, a future resident, business owner, parent of a college student, regular visitor or just passing through, we hope you have a great experience in our community.
HARRISONBURG-ROCKINGHAM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF
Frank M. Tamberrino
President & CEO
Sheena Armentrout
Director of Membership & Investment
Trent Turner
Finance & Administration Manager
Carlie Floyd
Administrative Assistant
Sara Wittig
Director of Marketing & Communications