BONNERS FERRY — In a small town like Bonners Ferry, community connections are part of everyday life. Local businesses support events and youth programs, nonprofits serve families in need and residents show up to volunteer and shop locally. 

The Bonners Ferry Chamber of Commerce works to bring those pieces together. 

“The chamber is for everybody,” said Darci Price, a member of the chamber’s membership committee. “It’s for businesses, nonprofits, churches and individuals, anyone who lives in the community. We’re all trying to lift each other up and make this a successful and harmonious place to live.” 

While chambers of commerce are often associated primarily with businesses, local leaders say the Bonners Ferry Chamber is designed to support the entire community.  

Membership is open to all businesses, churches, nonprofit organizations, and individuals interested in strengthening the local economy and community partnerships. Membership is not limited to Boundary County residents; anyone is able to become a member no matter where they reside.  

The chamber promotes local businesses through marketing opportunities, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and online visibility, including listings on its website and social media platforms. 

The chamber also organizes several well-known community events, including Kootenai River Days and Hometown Holidays, which bring residents and visitors together throughout the year. 

Kootenai River Days features activities such as Crazy Days, the Kootenai River Run, vendors and entertainment, while Hometown Holidays includes photos with Santa at Georgia Mae Plaza, holiday activities and local shopping promotions. 

The chamber’s next major event is the 9B Ladies Event, a full-day gathering focused on empowering women through speakers, workshops and networking opportunities. The event also includes lunch, social time, raffles, and swag bags for attendees. 

Chamber leaders say increasing membership and participation will allow the organization to expand its impact across the community. 

Potential future initiatives include workforce mentorship programs, youth entrepreneurship opportunities, business workshops, and scholarships aimed at supporting students and future entrepreneurs. 

Organizers say even small contributions of time or participation can make a difference. One immediate need is volunteers to help staff the Bonners Ferry Visitor Center, which is currently closed due to a lack of volunteers.  

Price said the chamber aims to work with leadership at the Visitor Center in hopes of finding community groups, nonprofits or individuals that may be willing to help operate the center periodically, allowing visitors to access information about local businesses, services and attractions. 

Leaders say the chamber provides a place where businesses, nonprofits, and community groups can collaborate to support the area’s long-term success. 

Membership fees begin at $50 annually for individuals and nonprofits, with business memberships based on company size. 

“Engagement isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing something,” chamber materials state. “When many members do small things consistently, the impact is real and lasting.” 

As the chamber continues working to grow membership and partnerships, organizers say their goal remains simple: helping Bonners Ferry remain a thriving place to live, work and do business.