STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — There is a significant economic impact when we choose to buy local. When we spend money locally we are adding lasting dollars into our local economy.

The American Independent Business Alliance looked at multiple studies and found that on average 48 percent of each dollar spent at a locally-owned business stayed in the local economy and continued to recirculate, versus less than 14 percent spent elsewhere.

Recirculating dollars locally is important because it helps grow local jobs and supports our community. Across America local small businesses accounted for 65 percent of all net new jobs over the past 17 years. It is local businesses that are most invested in the well-being of our community as they support our local nonprofits and other organizations, as well as our local tax base that funds schools, recreation and other public services.

With that in mind, the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association and the Steamboat Pilot & Today partner each year on a shop local campaign that includes the “12 Days of Steamboat” and “Pledge to Shop Local.”

New this year, the Chamber offers gift cards that support our innovative local businesses. Chamber gift cards kept over $122,795 in the Yampa Valley from October 2016 through October 2017.

As we head into peak shopping season, a Chamber gift card or a gift certificate to a local business is a great gift not only to the recipient but also to our community by encouraging shopping at our friendly local restaurants and retail stores. I hope you can log off this holiday season and spend time shopping downtown, dining with your friends and neighbors and enjoying this wonderful winter wonderland that we live in.

Find some of the top kid gifts this season right here in Steamboat Springs including Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty at Ace Hardware, Kluntz LEGO Chain Reactions Craft Kit or Hatchimals at In Celebration of Kids.

For the adult in your life, stroll downtown and pick up a wine decanter, Daniella’s chocolate, stainless steel coffee press, olive oil, local coffee, adventure gear, makeup and clothes for all occasions. Remember to shop local this holiday season and all the year through.

Kara Stoller is the CEO of the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association.