As the days grow longer, so do the number of program offerings at The Chamber. We're so thankful for all of our members' support as we continue to build out a programming and events schedule that meets the diverse needs of our membership. I know that everyone can't attend everything, but if you had to pick one thing this upcoming week, attend the Economic Symposium. This program has been reinvented into a half-day of learning for business owners. We know your time is valuable, so consider coming for only a couple of sessions or just the keynote—whatever floats your boat. | |
Darien Marion-Burton
Executive Director
OPRF Chamber of Commerce
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Join us at the 2024 Economic Symposium, where we'll delve into the theme of "Economic Resilience: Insider Tactics on Surviving and Thriving in Today’s Economic Climate." This half-day event is designed specifically for small business owners seeking practical strategies to navigate economic challenges with confidence.
Throughout the Symposium, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in engaging breakout sessions led by industry experts. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including financial planning, marketing strategies, operational efficiency, and innovative approaches to business sustainability.
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Our keynote speaker, Alycia Mason, will share invaluable insights and real-world experiences, providing inspiration and actionable advice for attendees to apply to their own businesses. Whether you're looking to fortify your current operations or explore new avenues for growth, this keynote address will offer invaluable perspectives on achieving success in any economic climate.
To wrap up the day's events, we invite you to join us for a networking happy hour where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, share experiences, and forge valuable connections. This informal setting provides the perfect opportunity to exchange ideas, gather insights, and build relationships with like-minded individuals who share your commitment to economic resilience and business success.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain the knowledge, tools, and connections you need to thrive in today's dynamic economic landscape. Reserve your spot at the 2024 Economic Symposium and take the first step towards securing a prosperous future for your business.
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Love meeting new people and helping out your community? We have volunteer opportunities for the Economic Symposium! Learn more about our positions below. | |
Thank you to Insperity for Sponsoring this event | |
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Plan Your Week!
Like to plan ahead?
Here are some events we have coming up over the next week so you can register now and receive a reminder right before the event.
Come join us for these wonderful networking opportunities and continue to grow your business!
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Monday May 20, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM -
BIPOC - Sharing Stories to Honor Asian American History Month
May is designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Michael Viernes, Purple Sun Arts, will tell the story of his Filipino family starting with the immigration of his Grandfather Albert Viernes in the 1930s. Join Michael at Purple Sun Arts, to hear his story, see his family photos, and taste the scrumptious food of his ancestors.
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Thursday May 23, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM -
New Member Breakfast
Welcome New Members! Join us at our quarterly New Member Breakfast to introduce yourself and tell us about your business. This is an ideal opportunity to meet fellow new members, Chamber staff and Board leadership. You will also learn about your benefits, hear how you can get involved and get answers to your questions. Brookdale Oak Park is graciously hosting this quarter.
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We would like to give a BIG thank you to our Pride Month Sponsor, Catan Pisco!
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Don't miss out! Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing Pride themed events and opportunities coming your way! | | |
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Wednesday Jun 5, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM -
Building a Queer Inclusive Community Within Your Organization
Join us for this workshop to learn how to better welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community into your workplace.
This year's panel includes:
- Matt Johnston, Realtor at Fulton Grace
- Ginger Bencola, Social Worker Oak Park-River Forest High School
- Sonya White, Insperity, HR Solutions
- Marisa Gray, Insperity, HR Solutions
- John Becvar, Co-Chair OPALGA+
In this fast-paced session you will learn:
- How and where to advertise for employees as an LGBTQ+ advocate business.
- Interviewing techniques that ensure you are welcoming to all who apply.
- Measures that can be implemented in your business today that build a more welcoming and inclusive work environment.
- How to best support all employees, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, to be more inclusive.
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Drag Queen Sponsorships
Thursday Night Out in the Burbs
One sponsorship is left! Don't delay!
Chamber at Thursday Night Out?
That's right! OPRF Chamber PRIDE is taking over Downtown Oak Park's Thursday Night Out on June 20!
Drag Queens Galore!
Do you want a Drag Queen roaming Thursday Night Out and talking about your business?
Well now is your chance to grab one before they are gone! We will have fabulous Drag Queens who can be sponsored to hand out your marketing and talk about your business for 2 hours at Thursday Night Out.
Each sponsorship will receive:
- Hyperlinked logo placement on the Event page on the Chamber website
- Call-out on the Chamber and DTOP social media before and after the event
- A fabulous Drag Queen roaming TNO for 2 hours talking to the crowd about your business! If you have swag they can hand this out as well.
- Business highlight in any press (still TBD)
NOTE - Drag Queen sponsorships are available for members only--$500.
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Saturday Jun 29, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Brunchin' Beauties: Celebrate Pride in Oak Park with Drag - Two Shows
Exciting Announcement! Due to overwhelming demand, we've doubled the fun this year with two spectacular shows at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm! Reserve your spot now! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Indulge in an unforgettable experience at our exclusive event, where delectable brunch favorites meet bottomless delights of Pisco Sours, Mimosas, and Bloody Marys. (Non-alcoholic tickets are also available.) Prepare to be captivated by a high-energy drag show that promises to dazzle and entertain every guest.
Gather your friends, family, and fellow community members for a fabulous celebration of diversity, creativity, and local businesses. Our Drag Brunch isn't just an event; it's a sensory journey that will leave you with cherished memories. Join us in supporting our local community while reveling in this truly remarkable experience.
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Jewish American Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of the contributions and achievements of American Jews, and their role in the development of the United States' culture, history, and society. | |
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Plan Your Month!
Like to plan ahead?
Here are some events we have coming up over the next month so you can register now and receive a reminder right before the event.
Come join us for these wonderful networking opportunities and continue to grow your business!
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Friday May 31, 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM -
Ribbon Cutting at G & G Home
Come celebrate with us! Ribbon cuttings provide an opportunity to welcome and connect with a new business, network with other attendees, and celebrate our growing business community. Connecting business to business, and business to community.
This week we'll be celebrating with Giusseppi and Georgianna, owners of G & G Home, who are debuting their new shop with this ribbon cutting ceremony! We'll be celebrating this business, taking pictures of the ribbon cutting, and enjoying a great networking opportunity! Come meet the owners and discover the services they offer!
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Sunday Jun 2, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM -
Day In Our Village Chamber Ambassadors!
Get out of the house, spend some time with friends, and promote your business!
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Choose a 1-hour time slot for you and your business to be in the tent. Only one time slot per business, please! (CLICK HERE to sign up).
- Plan how you can promote your business while in the Chamber tent (see below).
- Join us on the day to reconnect with friends and spread some #chamberLOVE!
While you are in the Chamber booth, you may also be promoting your business!
- Wear branded gear so people can identify your business.
- Bring your promotional products and giveaways.
- Have a stand-up banner? Bring it along!
- Talk to members of the community about the Chamber and your business.
This opportunity is for Chamber members only.
That's why it's a great time to be part of the Chamber!
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Thursday Jun 6, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM -
Nonprofit Affinity Group / Nonprofit Board Recruitment
There's a reason nonprofit board recruitment is a challenge. You're asking accomplished people to provide you with their time, money, expertise and connections, and to do so for free, in an ongoing manner. And their reward for it is not to play with puppies awaiting adoption, nor to help kids discover the magic of reading - but to sit in meetings reviewing financial reports, discussing investment in software upgrades, or updating employee bereavement time off policy. Why would someone give up their precious free time to do something like that?
Amazingly enough, people do! And some people have the knack for getting them to do so. We'll learn this month from Lynda Schueler, CEO at Housing Forward, one of the area's more prominent nonprofit organizations. Come learn from her experience how to handle this challenge faced by all nonprofits!
And, of course, connect with your peers from a diverse array of other nonprofits in the OPRF area. We look forward to seeing you!
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Tuesday Jun 11, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM -
Business After Hours - FFC
Join us at our regular monthly networking event, Business After Hours (BAH), on the second Tuesday of every month. All members and non-members are welcome. (Members are free.) Connecting business to business, business to community.
Our June Business After Hours (BAH) will be hosted by FFC (Fitness Formula Clubs) Oak Park. Join us for a night of networking and hors d'oeuvres in this high-energy setting, to enjoy spring on the outdoor deck.
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Friday Jun 14, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM -
June Women in Business / Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Do you get an uncomfortable feeling when you suspect you lack the experience and skill to do your job well? Do you chalk up your successes and accomplishments to luck, despite being high-performing? Do you sometimes think you're just "winging it" or experience a sense of intellectual phoniness? That's Imposter Syndrome. Join our panel of successful businesswomen as we discuss this universal struggle and powerful ways to overcome it.
Please come as you are. Skirt and office blazer or WFH hoodie and leggings, we are thrilled you are joining us. Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served.
9-9:15 am - network, socialize, gather refreshments, and find your seat.
9:15-10:30 - program
If you need to arrive a few minutes late or leave a few minutes early, please still join us! We get it, we have things to do.
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This eBlast was sent out by the OPRF Chamber of Commerce on behalf of a member in good standing as a member benefit. For information about the event described please contact the host. For information about joining the Chamber, click our website below.
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