At the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, we talk often about the importance of connection - how it fuels collaboration, inspires growth, and strengthens our business community. But connection doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of people who intentionally show up, extend a hand, and make others feel seen and supported.
Our Chamber Champions play a big role in these connections, and for that, we want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU!
Your willingness to welcome new members, share your experience, and be a trusted guide during their early months in the Chamber makes an incredible difference. You help transform a membership from simply “signing up” into truly “belonging.” Your efforts ripple through our entire community, fostering deeper relationships and stronger engagement - one conversation, one encouraging moment at a time.
We are honored to recognize each of you:
- Alice Woodard, Printwerx
- Christie Boutain, First Western Bank
- Constance Lemere, Employee Benefit Exchange Corp
- Jaime Johnson, Leading Edge Preschool
- Jän Simon, Foundation Insurance Services
- Jane Vela, Landings Credit Union
- Jason Diez, CrossCountry Mortgage
- Jerry Woods, Six Pixels Studios East Valley Phoenix
- Jim Paplaczyk, The American Legion Merrell-Mitchell Post 39
- Karen Camblin, Karen Camblin – Guild Mortgage Company
- Kevin De Rosa, Advance Champion Supply
- Kevin Schrandt, KYBREE Marketing
- Leticia Barwick, Meritum Credit Card Processing
- Mark Bergerson, Ensign Insurance Partners
- Mark Newman, Newman Realty Team Powered By Realty One Group
- Mindy Jones, Amy Jones Group
- Pete Schraufnagel, Edward Jones – Pete Schraufnagel
- Randi Townsend, Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Gilbert
- Rob Elder, Granite Bank – The Elder Team
- Stuart Preston, Cingularis
- Tim Troy, Universal Paper Shredding Services LLC
- Tony Imperiale, FirstBank – East Valley
Every Champion plays a unique role, but the impact is universal. The testimonials we hear from new members speak volumes:
“I just wanted to say thank you so much for introducing me to Pete! He's a great dude and we really hit it off personally and professionally. I just wanted to say I really appreciate it!”
— Roger Mansourian
Relationships like this don’t happen without someone willing to step up and make the connection. That “someone” is you, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
About the Chamber Champions Program
The Chamber Champions Program is designed to strengthen community within our membership by pairing long-standing, engaged members with newly joined businesses.
As a Chamber Champion, participants:
- Serve as a welcoming liaison during a new member’s first six months
- Help new members get connected by facilitating introductions, inviting them to events, and sharing helpful insights
- Dedicate about one hour each month to mentorship that builds confidence, relationships, and long-term engagement
Why Become a Champion?
- Showcase your leadership and support for the Chamber’s mission
- Grow your own network while helping others grow theirs
How Matching Works
- Champions are paired with 1–2 new members each month
- Matches are thoughtfully made based on interests and complementary industries
- Chamber staff facilitates introductions
- Champions check in monthly with their assigned members
This program is designed for active, experienced Chamber members who truly embody what it means to be welcoming, engaged, and committed to our community.
Want to Become a Chamber Champion?
If you’ve been an active member for three or more years and feel called to uplift others, build relationships, and help new members thrive, we would love to connect with you. Reach out to Amber at amber@gilbertchamber.com to learn more about becoming a Champion.
Thank you again to our incredible Chamber Champions, your generosity, guidance, and genuine care make the Gilbert Chamber community stronger every single day.