Intentional Networking with the Holistic Chamber of Commerce

The Holistic Chamber of Commerce, although new to Southern Nevada, has been active globally since 2010. The organization is woman-founded and supports holistically-aligned businesses, practitioners and community members. Here, Rachel West (President) along with Veronica Scala (Vice President) have joined forces to head up our local Las Vegas Holistic Chamber of Commerce. I recently sat down with the ladies to hear about their motivation in starting this Chapter and what we can expect from the Chamber in the coming year.

Stephanie Shehan: Hi Ladies!  Please, give me a little background on each of you.

Veronica Scala: I am originally from Chicago and moved to Las Vegas when I was in middle school. My mother struggled with addiction and I was raised by my father. I worked with my dad in the family business up until about ten years ago when I transitioned into the field of mental health and addiction treatment. It was there that I realized how difficult it was for individuals to navigate the system in getting the proper care. I became a trusted resource for those seeking guidance in addiction treatment. In 2022, we started our True Connection Lunch as a way for mental health, addiction and alternative resources to come together and network. Today, I own Reach Out for Recovery, a small marketing firm in strategic marketing with a holistic focus on business growth and longevity. 

Rachel West: I am also from the Chicago area and have been here in Las Vegas for 10 years.  When I moved here, I started a graphic design company and co-ran that for four years. I then began studying modern neuro-science, specifically in regard to marketing - I wanted to learn how people made decisions, how they processed information and how they communicate. In studying this, I discovered that I could use this knowledge for much more meaningful work. In 2020, I started my holistic life coaching business which focuses on mindset and mental wellness. Empowering people is my focus. There are so many people in our community suffering, they don’t know what they don’t know or where to turn to seek help.

SS: That’s amazing that you two moved here from the same place and are now deeply connected and working together.  What made you decide to start the Holistic Chamber of Commerce?

RW: When the opportunity to head up a local group of the Holistic Chamber was presented to me, I immediately contacted Veronica to see if she would be interested in helping. We both know all too well that people are sick of being sick and tired. They want to feel better mentally, physically, emotionally and financially. So, we joined forces and began the Chamber as a way to network and connect with like minded people for the betterment of the community.

SS: I love that.  How long has the local chapter been active?  And, what sets the Chamber apart from other local networking groups?

RW: We started the Chamber in April of 2024. I have attended many different networking groups in the last ten years. Many are more of a social hour where members mingle and exchange business cards. The Holistic Chamber is an “intentional” networking group. We are coming together to get to know one another both personally and professionally.  My goal is to keep the setting as intimate and personal as possible, even as we grow. I want people to really connect with one another. We will also be bringing an array of different holistic practices to both our members and the community.

SS: That sounds awesome.  Who can join the Chamber?  And, what are the different membership options?

RW: The Holistic Chamber of Commerce welcomes practitioners, consumers, businesses and organizations looking for member to member support. The Chamber also connects consumers to holistically aligned providers of products and services. We offer two different membership options as well as sponsorships. Monthly membership dues are affordable and come with options such as inclusion in the online directory and access to event posting. We are a global organization and our online portal is public which allows those searching for holistic businesses and events access to what is on the site. We have local groups across the country and members traveling are encouraged to attend meetings in other states to connect there as well.

SS: How often do you meet? And what can members expect when meeting?

RW: We meet once per month for our business mixer. We are currently holding these mixers at Paymon’s Fresh Kitchen and Lounge - the venue does provide dinner at each mixer.  Each mixer includes member speakers as well as small group networking. Those contemplating membership are welcome to attend a business mixer without confirming membership by simply reserving their space and paying the mixer fee.

SS: Does the Chamber participate in any community events?

RW: Yes, this year, we participated in Relay for Life, Project 150 and the Firefighters of SN Burn Foundation Holiday Toy Drive.

SS: Those are amazing local organizations!  It’s really nice to see a networking group actively participating in giving back.  What can we expect from the Chamber in 2025?

RW: This year, we are planning various free events that community members and business professionals can attend, to understand and experience what the Chamber is all about. In addition, we will be expanding our monthly events to different days and times to better accommodate our members.

SS: Where can those interested find more information about the Holistic Chamber of Commerce?

RW: Visit HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/Vegas, call Rachel at 702-714-1888 and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.