Since 1917, the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce has been the voice for business in the Joplin area. From a completely volunteer organization promoting the interests of business in a mining boomtown, the Chamber has grown to sixteen professional staff people, working with hundreds of volunteers to positively impact the business climate and quality of life in a growing metropolitan area. The Mission of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is "To improve the economic prosperity and quality of life in the Joplin region, and to be the principal advocate for, and provider of services to, its business community."