The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Tuesday received Five-Star Accreditation status from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Five-Star is the highest status of accreditation.

“Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit its local economy and positively influence its community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, executive director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations for the U.S. Chamber. “We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise.”

The only program of its kind in the country, U.S. Chamber accreditation recognizes excellence in chamber planning and performance. To achieve accreditation, a chamber must demonstrate quality programs, clear organizational procedures, and effective communications by meeting minimum standards in its operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology.

Local and regional chambers are rated “Accredited” or “Accredited with 3, 4, or 5 Stars.” The final determination is made by the accrediting board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members and chamber CEOs from across the country.

Of about 7,000 Chambers of Commerce in the country, only 199 are accredited. Of those only 90 have Five-Star status, according to the U.S. Chamber.

“As an organization we are excited to once again receive Five-Star Status,” said R. Patt Lilly, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. “It demonstrates our commitment to excellence as a Chamber and the dedication of our outstanding staff. For our members and the community there is the knowledge that the Chamber is committed to its mission of creating an environment that allows business to succeed and the community to prosper.”

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce also received Five-Star status during its last accreditation process, which occurs every five years. The Chamber has been continuously accredited since 1969.