The Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce recently signed a two-year partnership agreement with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce as a way to better improve the financial stability of their communities. As part of this partnership, the Pocono Chamber will receive support from Lehigh Valley’s Chamber without having to undergo a change in leadership.

“They are providing excellent best chamber practices and advice to make your chamber the best it can be,” said George Roberts, chairman of the board of the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce.

Benefits of this partnership also include the addition of new ideas and events, as well as the improvement of the chamber’s traditional ones.

A few new ideas that are currently underway is the establishment of a Young Professionals Council and the re-establishment of the West End Committee in Brodheadsville. GPCC members will also have access to events and activities that are a part of the GLVCC along with events from the Carbon Chamber.

“In regard to the overall operation of the GPCC, the board of directors and chamber committees continue to operate as usual. We remain autonomous and continue strong as the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce. Our affiliation with GLVCC is a partnership in a regional approach to improving the business climate of the Poconos,” Roberts said.

According to Marlyn Kissner, GLVCC’s executive vice president, northern tier, Lehigh Valley’s goal of this partnership is to allow the Pocono chamber to achieve their own individual dreams.

Following the same set of guidelines as GPCC’s partnership, the Pike County Chamber of Commerce formed an agreement with Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce as well. However, this partnership is on a six- month basis.