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3. bneny ust any cernncatrons and/or accreditations obtained Dy your agency. The Chamber and its departments were audited and/or reviewed by the Internal Revenue Service in 1994 to seek compliance with its non-profit status. The IRS determined the Chamber met all requirements and re -certified the non- profit status in 1995. An audit of our economic development activities was completed for the last fiscal year by a local accounting firm with a copy provided to the county. Since 2000, the Economic Development Director has held the status of Certified Economic Developer, the industry's highest professional status attained through the International Economic Development Council. This designation is earned through a combination of professional development, practical experience and aptitude. Of the approximately 300 active economic developers in Florida, 89 practitioners have earned this designation. In 2009, the Chamber's Economic Development Office was recognized by Trade & Industry magazine with Corporate Investment and Community Impact (CiCi) Awards for our role in retaining Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, the award recognizes corporate locations and investments with a focus on the company investing in the community and the economic developers responsible for securing that investment. With over 1,000 nominations received each year, the CiCi Awards recognize the top fifteen community projects in the U.S. that "have profound implications for local communities". In 2008, the Chamber received a 4 -star accreditation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. With nearly 7,000 chambers of commerce in all of the United States, accreditation is a prestigious honor that distinguishes quality, expertise and strong leadership. In 2006, the Workforce Development Board of the Treasure Coast (now CareerSource Research Coast) recognized the Chamber's Economic Development Office as "Partner of the Year." In 2006, the American Society of Association Executives recognized the Chamber's disaster recovery plan that was implemented following the 2004 hurricane season. The EDO received the 2005 "Promotional Materials Award" from the Southern Economic Development Council for our professionally desi ned collateral material. 4. How does your program differ from similar ones provided in the community? How do the programs complem• inose offered by other agencies There are no other comprehensive countywide economic development programs of this type provided by, or performed by, any other group or agency within the county. The Chamber is recognized by Enterprise Florida, our statewide economic development organization, as the primary economic development agency of record for Indian River County. The EDO works closely with other agencies as well as public officials to facilitate business development efforts as well as the retention and expansion of local business. The Chamber also maintains contact with regional, state, and federal agencies and elected officials who are critical to the success of our programs and benefits to local industry. We are also the "go -to" organization in times of disaster, partnering with the County and Emergency Management personnel. • 182