Description

To celebrate the holiday season, the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce is hosting Mayor Ross Siemens for his annual address to the Abbotsford business Community.

Given the seasonal spirit of giving, and in celebration of Abbotsford’s non-profit community, the Chamber will also unveil an update to the Business of Doing Good Report, a community-wide initiative started in 2022 in partnership with the University of the Fraser Valley which gave an overview and analysis of economic output for the not-for-profit sector in Abbotsford. Recent CRA data has enabled for updates to be made to the report for 2024, allowing for a more accurate portrayal of the current not-for-profit economic landscape after COVID-19 and the Abbotsford flood response.

Mayor Ross Siemens

Ross Siemens was elected Mayor of Abbotsford in 2022 after serving on Abbotsford City Council as a Councillor from 2014 – 2022.

Ross was born and raised in Abbotsford and previously served on the District of Abbotsford Council from 1986 to 1990. While serving on the District Council, he helped initiate the Business Improvement Area legislation that established the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association. 

Ross understands the unique role that small businesses play in building a strong and engaged locally based economy and is excited about opportunities to help these businesses continue to thrive. Ross is also passionate about refugee relief work, welcoming refugees into the community, and helping them to succeed.

Ross has been married for over 30 years, and has two daughters. Ross is an outdoor enthusiast and an avid runner.

Background on the Business of Doing Good Report:

The study, initiated by the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) and led by the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), surveyed nearly 300 local not-for-profit organizations in 2020.

Anchored by key statistics and financial data, the Report also spotlights the importance that not-for-profits play in providing essential community services, with profiles of four local organizations.

2021 Business of doing Good Report: https://giving.ufv.ca/stories/the-business-of-doing-good-report/

Member tickets start at $75 and Non-Member tickets at $90. Details to follow soon!

$10 from every ticket will go towards funding the Chamber’s student scholarships available through the Abbotsford Community Foundation.