Duxbury resident Paula Harris wears many hats, chair of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce (SSCC) being one of them. Harris and her husband own their own business, conveniently located in town. We talked with Paula about small businesses and how she finds the time juggle it all. Aside from being Chairman of the Board of the SSCC, where do you work?

Together with my husband Bill, we run W.H. Cornerstone Investments based in Duxbury. We are sound, visionary stewards of our clients’ wealth.

Terrific! Many people believe there is more “job security” in working for a big company. We believe that we do a much better job of creating our own security and success.

How important are small businesses to community?

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. They represent 99.7 percent of all employer firms and pay 44 percent total U.S. private payroll, according to SBA.gov.

When did you become involved with the South Shore Chamber of Commerce?

Our firm joined in 2003 and a year later I joined the Women’s Business Connection Committee.

Would you describe the mission of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce?

The Chamber’s mission is to strengthen the economy and improve the business climate for the South Shore region. We do this through economic and political advocacy, as well as creating opportunities for our members to meet, learn and grow.

What does your role with the Chamber entail?

The chair works closely with the president and CEO to advance the mission of the Chamber. You also preside over the board meetings and welcome our special guest speakers, typically our political leaders, at our signature 7:44 events. In addition, I have focused this year on the “Three Ms”: membership, message and money.

Was the SSCC affected by the economic slump in recent years?

Yes, the SSCC has been affected with the economic slump. Many of our members have either merged with another organization, gone out of business, retired or have had cash flow issues which means we have fewer members than we did five years ago. However, we are experiencing an uptick in membership this year, which we are excited about.

How do you find the time to work and also devote energy to the South Shore Chamber of Commerce?

Much of my role with our firm is to be visible in the community so the role with the Chamber is a perfect compliment. It has been a bit of a balancing act this year with all the additional meetings that come with being chair. Having said that, it’s not unusual for me to be catching up on email and paperwork after hours. In the words of Lucille Ball: “If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. The more things you do, the more you can do.”

Do you have any hobbies?

One of my biggest challenges is that I have too many interests! I teach the art of homemade mozzarella making and this year I’m working on getting a golf handicap. I also enjoy gardening—both flowers and veggies and am a member of the Community Garden Club of Duxbury.

What would you say to a child who asked how to be successful when you grow up?

Build relationships with a wide variety of people in your life and keep in touch with them.

How long have you lived in Duxbury?

We’ve owned our home in Duxbury since 1993.

How does Duxbury fit in to the business community of the South Shore?

It doesn’t. Duxbury is a semi-rural bedroom community with very little commercial business. We have most of the services that our residents need for day-to-day life. We’ve been blessed with some natural resources, like the bay and cranberries, which have provided for some interesting industries. However, most other business activities occur in other South Shore communities.

Where is your favorite place in Duxbury?

Cedar Hill Retreat Center—it’s a wonderful mix of woodlands, a quiet sandy beach and the bay.

Where can we find you when you’re not working or dedicating your time to other organizations?

It might be hard to find me since I like to be unplugged and off the grid in the Berkshires.

What are you most proud of?

Building our business, W.H. Cornerstone Investments, from scratch. We have two main groups of clients we work with a lot: small business owners and widows. It is so gratifying to know you’ve made a positive difference in their lives.

How would your friends describe you in five words or less?

Approachable, friendly, thoughtful, authentic, straight shooter.