Lynden Chamber of Commerce’s Community Cash Back Program, created in 1998 to encourage local shopping and support of nonprofit organizations, recently passed a milestone by generating more than $10 million in sales.

Community Cash Back works when nonprofit organizations purchase gift certificates from the chamber. The nonprofit then sells these certificates, which can be spent like cash at more than 70 participating business in Lynden, to individuals. Stores deposit the Community Cash Back dollars at 95 percent of the face value, then 4 percent of the remaining balance is donated to the organization, with a nominal 1 percent going to the chamber for administrative expenses.

“This is an example of a great community program that helps out numerous families while keeping local dollars in Lynden businesses,” Gary Vis, Lynden Chamber of Commerce executive director, said in a press release. “Each nonprofit program has volunteer organizers that are the secret to the success of the Cash Back Program. They are invaluable to keeping these dollars in Lynden while generating income for their programs.”

Organizations currently benefitting from the program include Lynden Christian Schools, Ebenezer Christian School, Cornerstone Christian School, and Covenant Christian School.  Proceeds support the schools’ tuition reduction programs, booster clubs and other programs allowing families to offset the cost of education while sustaining local Lynden businesses.

For a list of participating businesses, or to learn more about how your company or non-profit can be involved, contact Lynden Chamber of Commerce at (360) 354-5995 or www.lynden.org.