History of The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce
The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce traces its roots to the Wausau Board of Trade. Its meeting on Monday evening, March 11, 1912 organized a commercial club called the Wausau Advancement Association.
The association’s purpose was to "foster, protect and advance the commercial, industrial, and civic interest of the City of Wausau and County of Marathon, bring the advantageous location and natural advantages of the territory to its highest stage of development, utility and attractiveness and promote progressive thought and action in all that will make for an enlightened, contented, and prosperous commonwealth".
A report in the next day’s newspaper stated, "With an earnestness and enthusiasm unprecedented in local movements of this kind, the citizens of Wausau to the number of five hundred or more met last night in the civilization of a society having for its object the promotion of the welfare of the city".
Projects in the early years focused on: appointment of a committee to "look after entertainment of visitors and do what we can to secure other conventions for Wausau", development of plans to make Wausau a "greater buying center", formation of a committee to make Wausau safer from fire, and development of new industrial prospects. The organization devoted many of its resources to retaining and attracting new businesses to the area. It also promoted tourism, raised money for improving the road between Wausau and Merrill, and encouraged better relations between the city and surrounding communities.
Change of Name
The organization changed its name in May 1916, to the "Chamber of Commerce". Another name change occurred in 1961, reflecting a geographical broadening of interests. The new name was the Wausau Chamber of Commerce. Still another change in name took place in 1999, becoming the Wausau/Marathon County Chamber of Commerce. Finally, in 2003, the Chamber’s official name changed one last time to The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce.
Mission
While the name may have changed, its mission and goal has remained a constant. Today, as in 1912, The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce works to make the whole community a better place by building business success.
The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce has 1,100+ member businesses. It is a non-stock corporation organized under Chapter 181 of the Wisconsin Statutes and is designated as a 501(c)(6) by the Internal Revenue Service, which permits dues to be deducted from federal income tax as a business expense. (The Chamber's affiliated Foundation is able to accept contributions for charitable purposes).
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