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Regional 'Christian Chamber' to launchBy JOHN FORTMEYERCNNW publisher PORTLAND — Charly Kenyon is a new Northwest-erner, having moved here from Las Vegas, Nev., only last April 2. She’s an even newer Christian, having given her heart to the Lord April 29 at a women’s retreat sponsored by her church, Rivercrest Community Church of Portland. But Kenyon is not one to waste time, and only four months later, she is energetically combining her new love for Christ and her new status as a Northwest resident in a new innovation for the region. Kenyon is organizing a “Christian Chamber of the Northwest,” a concept that has been launched in other parts of the nation but is now being introduced here. Patterned after traditional business-oriented chambers of commerce seen in towns large and small nationally, but with a Christian twist, the new organization will be outlined in a Networking Mixer and Mini Expo from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, at the church, 3201 N.E. 148th Ave. Kenyon said her husband teases her about the ideas she sometimes gets in the middle of the night, and she believes the concept of a Christian chamber in this region was one such “download” from the Lord. A longtime business owner and marketer, Kenyon had been active in traditional chambers in Las Vegas; Phoenix, Ariz.; and San Diego, Calif.; as well as in the National Association of Women Business Owners. But after she got the idea of a Christian chamber, she did a quick search on the Internet to see if there were any such organizations already. She found, for example, that in southwest Florida a Christian chamber has operated for seven years and now has 500 members. Another in central Florida has been going for four years and has 200 members. There also is an international Christian chamber organization based in Belgium. Why a Christian chamber in this region? Kenyon explains on her organization’s website, www.christianchambernorthwest.com. “We believe it is time for Christian business people and Christian individuals to be involved in a chamber without feeling they need to suppress their faith in anyway. “The Christian Chamber of the Northwest is like any other chamber of commerce, we are about business. Our distinguishing characteristic is a shared faith in God. We believe the principles of God should be integrated into every aspect of our lives, including our businesses and careers. “If you were to ask the question, ‘With all things being equal, wouldn't you rather do business with a Christian business owner or individual?’ you will get a resounding yes! “We also believe that it is time for a united voice in business and public policy from the Christian perspective.” Plans call for Christian Chamber of the Northwest to be open to Oregon, Washington and Idaho businesses, individuals, churches, ministries, associations and other agencies. Membership rates will range from $150 to $600, depending on membership category or size of business. There also will be three additional membership levels in special categories for those making larger investments in the non-profit chamber. Those who join will need to pledge adherance to a code of ethics and operate their businesses according to Biblical principles. Kenyon hopes to work with membership throughout the region geographically according to county, and is starting off by concentrating on Multnomah County in Oregon. Kenyon envisions the chamber eventually sponsoring monthly breakfasts, luncheons or dinners for business promotion; networking opportunities; seminars on a wide range of topics; an annual trade show; a pastor’s appreciation event, and more. But it all starts with the Oct. 4 event. Attendance is free; purchase of a table to promote a business or non-profit agency is $20. Appetizers and beverages will be served. Those attending should phone Kenyon at 503-320-9373. For more information, go to www.christianchambernorthwest.com. |
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