With the help of more than 500 volunteers, representing 35 companies and organizations, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce has begun canvassing the state for new members and additional resources. The goal of this year’s campaign is $1.8 million and 800 new members.

The drive officially started June 11 at a luncheon at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel.    

The growth of the state chamber over the past 10 years clearly indicates that business takes its role in the formulating public policy seriously. Since 1997, the Georgia Chamber has increased it membership 140 percent and currently has 4,000 members in 156 counties. Last year's drive raised $1.76 million and brought in 819 new members.

According to George Israel, president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, this year’s effort is crucial.  

“The 2008 session of the Georgia General Assembly produced legislation that will help make our state stronger, attract new business and generate jobs,” he said. “This happened only because the business community was involved in the process and remained unified.  It is important that this participation continue.”