Although it is somewhat inescapable that the first goal of any organization is to survive and grow, there are times when this focus needs to be set aside and the real mission of the organization placed in the forefront. Consider the formally stated mission of your chamber:

“The Appomattox County Chamber of Commerce exists to improve the quality of life of those living and doing business in the community by working in partnership with its members and local government. Focusing leadership on challenges and opportunities, the chamber strives to empower individual businesses to fulfill their financial and human potential.

“While maintaining a respectful reverence of our unique heritage, we do not dwell in the past but look to the future. The Appomattox County Chamber of Commerce strives to be an advocate for the community’s best interests, and a catalyst for achieving those goals which are best for its members and the greater community.”

There’s more to this in the current issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Support local journalism by purchasing the issue at a local newsstand or subscribing at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to receive the print edition or view the full article in the e-edition version.