Caledon Chamber of Commerce welcomes new President and Board

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNAISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Caledon Chamber of Commerce has announced big changes, including a new President and whole new Board to start connecting to local businesses in Caledon. 

On January 11, the Caledon Chamber of Commerce changed things up by electing an entirely new board consisting of business owners in the Caledon area. 

Anthony Caputo, owner of real estate group, The Caputo Group, has been elected President of the Caledon Chamber of Commerce and is looking forward to working alongside other business owners to bring about support that is much needed during these difficult times. 

“When I found out what the role of the Chamber was and how important it is in the community to advocate for not only small businesses, but for all businesses in general, I said to myself, being a small business owner, that it's extremely important, especially in a town like ours,” Caputo said. “A lot of businesses feel they're not represented properly and neglected.”

Caputo has resided in Caledon since moving here when in elementary school and is currently raising his children here too. He has seen the growth within the community and sees its potential.

Alongside Caputo stands Caledon Roots owner Sarah Leslie as first Vice President and owner of The Mortgage Centre, Shannon Turnball, as second Vice President. 

Pam Davis, owner of Sparkittechs has been elected Treasurer, Jessica Laurenza owner of The Neighbours of Central Caledon as Secretary and board members include John Ruscetta owner of Pizza Panini and Tish Hansen, owner of The Concierge.

“I was tasked with putting together this board, and I feel I've chosen some prominent business members that started from scratch; their businesses are just phenomenal,” said Caputo. 

He added, “these are all small businesses that are successful during a pandemic. Why not pass that knowledge, pass that experience to the rest of businesses that are suffering and help them get on their feet?” 

The council's responsibility and role, general speaking, is to engage with businesses in the Caledon community, as well as assist in individuals pursuing opening a business in Caledon.

“We're here to help anyone and any business, any way we can, whether they want to start up from scratch or they need help,” said Caputo. “We're here for them.”

Jessica Laurenza, owner of The Neighbours of Central Caledon, is using her role on the board as an opportunity to connect with other businesses in the community. 

“I didn't really know what it would entail, honestly,” she explained. “The Chamber, to me kind of seemed like an intimidating organization. I didn't really know that much about it, but I knew if I wanted new business connections and I wanted to get my name out there and my magazine, it would be a good opportunity to be a part of it.” 

Laurenza is in the process of publishing a community magazine called The Neighbours of Caledon. As a long-time resident and new business owner, the opportunity was too good to pass up. 

“I've lived in Caledon my whole life; I grew up here. I know that it's such a tight knit community, and it's important to me because I'm starting a small business to connect with other businesses that are in the same boat to uplift each other, [and] help each other thrive within the community,” Laurenza said. “That's what I'm most excited about. Meeting new people, hearing their stories and hopefully talking face to face this year.”  

Mayor Allan Thompson swore in Mr. Caputo, and the rest of the board, on January 11 during a virtual ceremony.

“On behalf of the Town I wish the new Board all success as they start this new chapter,” said Mayor Thompson.  “The Chamber is an important voice for business in Caledon and we look forward to working with them to support our local business community.”

Caputo states their mandate is clear: Shop local, support local. 

“We are here to promote small businesses as well as support. I feel that Caledon is a diamond in the rough, we have so much to offer and people really don't know what we have here,” said Caputo. 

For further information, visit caledonchamberofcommerce.ca.