Skip to content

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            

The Alameda Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the establishment of a 501(c)(3) foundation to conduct and support the Chamber’s educational and charitable programs focusing on business, leadership, and community challenges/development. The foundation will conduct a variety of educational activities which will include training, scholarship, entrepreneurial growth, awareness building, inclusion, opportunities for cross-sector collaboration with key stakeholders and members of the business community. 

The foundation will also have a focus on equity, with the understanding that the vibrancy of the entire community is determined by the well-being of all. It will work with individuals, nonprofits, and other organizations to break down silos and support the alignment of community resources to improve the well-being of everyone living and working in Alameda.

“We are so excited to see this foundation come to fruition. Its creation will help provide much needed educational resources for the community such as training for entrepreneurs, development of leadership skills, and educational opportunities for previously underserved groups like young professionals, women, minorities, and independent business professionals in our community,” said Madlen Saddik, President & CEO of the Alameda Chamber.

“While the foundation will continue the Chamber’s vision of creating a vibrant, diverse community, it will have its own advisory board, budget, and treasurer. We are currently accepting tax-deductible donations to help the foundation begin its important work,” Saddik added.

“This foundation gives us the opportunity to have an even greater impact on our community by assisting in resource distribution and coordination in some of the most pressing issues regarding our city such as getting the unhoused suitable and affordable housing and helping our youth become leaders through supporting school scholarships,” said Adam Elsesser, Chief Executive Officer of Penumbra, Inc. about the foundation announcement. “The Chamber has always been a catalyst for change and bringing groups together. This foundation will help us further that commitment to Alameda. We invite the public to join us. We’re looking for tax-deductible donations to help establish our scholarships and programs as well as people who are willing to give their time in a leadership capacity.” 

If you would like to make a contribution to the foundation in order to help it bring additional educational programming and assistance to the Alameda community, contact Madlen at 510-522-0414. 

About the Alameda Chamber of Commerce 

The Alameda Chamber of Commerce is committed to serving our members and enhancing our community by building business success. The Chamber provides a greater return on investment and involvement by providing innovative leadership, inside access, influential advocacy, and increased opportunities. For more information on the Alameda Chamber visit www.alamedachamber.com

About the Alameda Chamber Foundation

The Alameda Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit subsidiary of the Alameda Chamber of Commerce. It serves to educate the people who live and work in Alameda on the conditions necessary for our businesses and the community to thrive, how business positively impacts our community, as well as emerging issues and creative solutions that will shape the future. The foundation provides ongoing leadership development, education programs that provide unique opportunities for learning and growth, and solutions to important community problems like homelessness.