Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The mission of the Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc., a non-for-profit corporation, is to foster community improvement, provide service to the benefit of area citizens, improve education, and support the development of community leaders. In fulfilling the mission, the Chamber will conduct research, fund programs, seek funding for projects, manage resources, and coordinate programs that meet the purpose for which the Foundation was formed.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. Board:
Mark Reisen, Edward D. Jones
Curtis Davidson, First National Bank
Mike Chandler, CPA
Trish Long, Mercy Hospital Ardmore
Mita Bates, President and CEO
Blake Bush, Bush Family Eye Care
Les Brown, EJ
History of the Ardmore Chamber Foundation and Its Relationship to the Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber Foundation was incorporated in August 1989, by Wilson Wallace and Wes Stucky. In 1991, the Foundation received official designation and ruling from the IRS as a charitable foundation.
The Foundation was formed to provide support in the form of research, education, service and charitable works, and aid to persons and corporations fostering or promoting like programs.
The Foundation has proven to be an “incubator” for other charitable organizations. Such organizations “graduated” from the Chamber Foundation include: Ardmore Beautification Council. Community in Schools, Good Shepherd Medical Clinic, and the Family Crisis Shelter.
The Foundation operates education programs like Partners in Education, and a variety of scholarship programs. LEadership Greater Ardmore (Adult and Youth) is another project consuming a considerable amount of time. The Festival of Lights is a Chamber Foundation project. Art in Public Places is coordinated through the Foundation in an effort to obtain charitable donations for public art.
The Foundation is also a depository and coordinator for “one-time” special projects like a health initiative and renovation of the Mercy Train.
The Foundation is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors. Five directors serve 5-year terms. The Chamber President and the Chamber Chairman serve on the board as a result of their positions held.
Unlike the ATA and the ADA, the Chamber of Commerce exercises some control over the activities of the Foundation as two of its representatives sit on the board.
