The Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce is increasing its outreach and work with Cranston business leaders, especially since the city’s chamber closed several years ago.
“Cranston is part of the Central Rhode Island Chamber's core service area,” Chamber President and CEO Lauren Slocum said Monday. The Central Chamber is located in Warwick.
Slocum said about 60 of the chamber’s 550 membership are Cranston businesses and that the chamber regularly holds business events in the city. In fact, the Chamber will hold a morning coffee for members on Thursday, December 12 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Deep Breaths Salon & Holistic Center on Starline Way.
Slocum said the chamber is looking to strengthen its relationship with Cranston businesses and city officials.
“That helps everyone. We’re under the same umbrella. Why do we need to continue to divide when we’re stronger together.” she said.
In a statement released by his office, Cranston Mayor Kenneth Hopkins said, “The Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce plays a critical role is fostering a thriving business environment in our city and across the state. The Chamber is a cornerstone for our local community, offering invaluable resources and networking opportunities for small businesses. It serves as a bridge, connecting entrepreneurs with essential tools and support to help them succeed.”
Noting that the city has seen the opening and continued growth of Cranston businesses he said, “I am proud of the work our city does alongside the Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce. By supporting the Chamber, we are simultaneously strengthening our community, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth.”
The mayor also spoke about Slocum saying “Her leadership has greatly helped advance the shared goals of the chamber and our city. Together, we have built a strong foundation for future business success, ensuring that local owners and entrepreneurs have the support they need. I'm excited to see what we can achieve in the coming years."
When asked whether the board would have a Cranston representative, Slocum replied, “Our chairman of the board [Michael P. Aurecchia] is a resident of Cranston, and RISE Engineering [based in Cranston] is on the board.”
She said any chamber member is welcome to submit an application to join the board.
“We also can activate a Cranston Advisory Council if there is a need to work on what is good in Cranston and areas businesses can contribute to improve the business climate,” she said.

Membership costs are based on the size of the company, starting at $295 annually for 1 to 5 employees; 6-10 employees is $350 or $31 per month with special packages at other levels.

“We encourage businesses to expand their reach and whether they are located in or looking to do business in our core service area, which includes Cranston, they should reach out and learn more about how they can benefit by being part of the Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce,” Slocum said.

Slocum said Keith Traversie, who is working part time for the chamber is acting as the “Cranston ambassador.” He can be reached at keith@centralrichamber.com or by calling the chamber at 401-732-1100.

Traversie is not alone is reaching out to the business community.

Last week the chamber announced Jennifer Wheelehon is rejoining the chamber team as vice president. She worked with the organization since 2018 before a brief absence earlier this year. In her previous role as Director of Membership & Marketing, she played a key role in fostering connections between local businesses, creating opportunities for growth, and engaging members to support their success.

In her new role she will spearhead special projects, including working with the East Greenwich Chamber of Commerce on the Civics Bee that will be run by the US Chamber of Commerce next year involving sixth, seventh and eighth graders.

“Jen is very good in connecting people,” said Slocum.

"Her ability to build meaningful relationships and her extensive background in event planning, marketing, and customer service will significantly enhance the value we provide to our members," Slocum added.

A release to chamber members further states, “Throughout her career, Jennifer has excelled at connecting individuals and businesses with organizations to achieve philanthropic, volunteer, marketing, and community engagement goals.”

Wheelehon currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for Thrive Behavioral Health and as a Board Member for Elves for Elders, underscoring her passion for improving the communities where she works and lives.