The Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, the largest business organization in southern Arizona, is celebrating its 120th year of leadership and advocacy.

The chamber was founded on Oct. 31, 1896, and was originally called the Tucson Grocer’s Association. In all this time, the chamber’s mission has been to support area businesses while expanding the local economy and making the region a better place to live.

“This milestone, which by itself is an achievement for any business, or organization, is one we can all be proud of,” Robert Ramirez, chairman of the Tucson Metro Chamber board of directors, said. “Guided by our mission to serve as Tucson’s premier business advocacy and community development organization, the chamber demands that we give our best as individuals and collectively as a team. The chamber stands committed to fostering partnerships among like-minded business professionals with a common goal of continued economic expansion for southern Arizona.”

To celebrate this milestone, the chamber is holding a Time Capsule Open House celebration Nov. 17 at the Tucson Metro Chamber office. The event begins at 4 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, food and beverages.

The chamber is collecting items to place in a sealed time capsule that will be opened in 30 years for the chamber’s 150th anniversary. Bring historical documents or physical items no larger than two-by-three inches for consideration.

For more information about the event, visit www.tucsonchamber.org.