About the Chamber
The voice of business in the West Valley since 1919
A 501(c)(6) nonprofit membership association, the Peoria Chamber has been a central resource and advocate for 334+ businesses and the community they serve for more than a century.
Our mission
The Peoria Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for business, encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit while proudly displaying our patriotism and promoting our diverse community with honor and integrity.
Our vision
To be the premier civic leader, providing businesses with exceptional resources to facilitate opportunities that foster a prosperous economy, continued growth, and a healthy community.
Our history
Older than the city we serve
The Peoria Chamber of Commerce was incorporated on June 30, 1919 to support citizens by establishing, maintaining, and operating many of the standard city services you see today. The City of Peoria was not incorporated until 1954, which meant the Chamber was responsible for the operation of all services for the community, including power, water, sewer, fire, and telephone, for 35 years.
More than 106 years later, the Chamber continues to serve Peoria residents, businesses, and West Valley partners.
What we value
Five values that guide our work
Business Advocacy
By supporting pro-business legislation at the local, state, and federal level, and promoting a Shop Local mentality, the Chamber is a primary advocate for business in the West Valley.
Integrity
We lead with integrity and ethics through our decisions and our support of the community, helping ensure our members are trustworthy organizations.
Community
Above all, we serve as a Community Connector, building relationships that advance member needs and community objectives, and acting as a Visitors Center for Peoria.
Entrepreneurship
We encourage the entrepreneurial spirit, providing one-on-one support and resources to those just getting started on their business journey.
Patriotism
We value the ability to serve businesses throughout Arizona and take pride in celebrating our heroes, past, present, and future.
Our team
Meet the Chamber staff
Rhonda Carlson
President & CEO
Rhonda joined the Peoria Chamber of Commerce in June 2022 as President & CEO, bringing more than 20 years of experience in operations, account management, and development within the nonprofit sector. Prior to her current role, she served as Executive Director of Arizona Disabled Sports. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in Public Administration with a minor in nonprofit management and communications from Cleveland State University. As a collaborator and public servant at heart, Rhonda is dedicated to building resources and opportunities that best serve the Peoria and West Valley business community. Since relocating from Cleveland, Ohio to Arizona in 2018, she has embraced her role as a Peoria resident and values the opportunity to give back through her leadership at the Chamber. Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys attending concerts, playing sports with her boys, and taking advantage of Arizona’s many outdoor activities.
Jason Bressler
Business Development Specialist
Jason Bressler joined the Peoria Chamber team in 2023 as our Business Development Specialist and has quickly become a tireless advocate for business growth and community connection. Widely known as “Mr. Networker,” Jason is a trusted resource for businesses looking to build meaningful relationships with other businesses and the community at large. In addition to his work with the Chamber, Jason leads the Phoenix Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting children, pets, and veterans across the region. His commitment to service and talent for building connections make him a key part of the Chamber team.
Heather Martinez
Marketing Coordinator
Heather earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism Development and Management from Arizona State University, where she developed a strong foundation for her career in marketing and economic development. Her background includes serving as the Digital Content Specialist with the City of Glendale’s Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she led marketing initiatives and enhanced tourism efforts, as well as working as an Economic Development Analyst with the City of Peoria, providing data-driven reports to support business attraction and growth. With experience in both marketing and economic development, Heather is uniquely positioned to understand the needs of local businesses and the communities they serve. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping local and uncovering hidden gems throughout the West Valley.
Jennifer Cerda
Member Services Coordinator
Jennifer is passionate about building community and creating lasting connections. She brings a strong background in customer service, organization, and relationship building, making her a valuable addition to the Chamber team. With more than five years of experience at Paragon Business Equipment, where she served in roles ranging from web development and customer service liaison to networking representative and co-owner, Jennifer has gained a well-rounded perspective on supporting both people and businesses. She is excited to apply her experience and enthusiasm toward strengthening Chamber membership, fostering collaboration, and helping businesses feel connected and supported.
Board of directors
The leaders steering the Chamber
Laurie Ledgerwood
Chair
Adam Cary
Vice-Chair & Treasurer
Jim McPhetres
Secretary
Dave Mitchell
Board Member
David Tracy
Board Member
Erica Huerta
Board Member
Leeann Yacuel
Board Member
Melody Williams
Board Member
Rentha Person
Board Member
Julie LaCroix
Board Member
Bill Lambert
Board Member
Roxanna Garcia
Board Member
Scott Spurgeon
Board Member
Join the Peoria Chamber
Your business belongs in the West Valley's strongest network.
Add your business to the directory, get in front of the community, and join a chamber that has championed Peoria since 1919.