May 2020 Newsletter
A Message From Our President
Welcome to May – now entering our EIGHTH WEEK of the “shelter in place” mandate.

It’s been a prolonged and tiresome struggle for everyone but more so for those trying to run a business in the days of COVID, which only compounds the normal stresses of daily life. Somehow, while productivity has slowed (even dramatically for some), things seem crazier than ever! As an owner of a business deemed essential, I have been at the warehouse every day since the shelter order. Never have I felt a greater sense of responsibility as an employer to try and keep all my employees safe, healthy and busy.  

So why am I bothering you with all this information?
How Members are Adapting to COVID-19
NAWBO Chicago members are more resilient than ever and are adapting their businesses in the same way. Five members offer insight on how they successfully pivoted during trying times.  
Pivoting Your Business
The Synergy Companies, Inc.  
Pearl of Wisdom from a NAWBO Chicago Past President
Lori Hilson Cioromski
Essential Water Technologies, Inc.  
Business Steps Taken for COVID-19
Mary Lawrence
Richard Graphics Communications, Inc. 
Seek Opportunities in Times of Crisis
Sue Rescigno
Rescigno's Fundraising Professionals
Lessons from the Great Recession
Judi Schindler
Schindler Communications
Join Us for NAWBO Chicago's Virtual Happy Hour
You all deserve a toast after what we’ve been through thus far, so grab your favorite beverage and join in for a fun interactive video chat (so we can see each other just like we would at an in-person meeting)! We’ll connect and support one another – remaining stronger together, even during social distancing!

Our Virtual Happy Hours are happening every Thursday in May from 4:30 - 6:00pm.
Take Advantage of Your Membership Benefits
Whether a solopreneur or a million-dollar business, NAWBO Chicago gives women-owned businesses of all levels the resources and support to help them grow. As one of the largest NAWBO Chapters in the U.S., a NAWBO Chicago membership offers the power and benefits of an established community of women entrepreneurs.

Advocacy
National is providing a slate of Advocacy Days this year beginning on May 18. Join their events to help make women business owner's voices heard in Congress.

Education
All women business owners are welcome at the NAWBO Institute ! As the premier resource for women business owners across the nation the institute is available to help build a legacy of success.

Growth
We provide our members with the  resources  that they need to help their businesses through changing times and Mastermind groups to foster continued to grow.
Networking
NAWBO Chicago is hosting a wide variety of virtual events to keep our members connected. These events are open to everyone during COVID-19.

Perks
Join our members-only Facebook Page to connect more with your NAWBO Chicago Members. Get exclusive information about programs, participate in discussions and learn about WBE Opportunities.

 Visibility
We are always looking to help promote the great work our members are doing. Share information with us about special programs you're offering or be added to our speaker's bureau to help share your knowledge.
Not a member? NAWBO's annual Spring Membership Drive is now underway through May 31, 2020. Sign up during the drive to receive $45 off the one-time new member initiation fee in honor of our 45th anniversary.

Please check our website for Local Virtual Events.

Please check the national website for their weekly slate of Virtual Planning.
COVID-19 Resources
At NAWBO Chicago, we have been working around the clock to stay on top of the latest Coronavirus (COVID-19) developments, recommendations and resources and to develop a plan that will support you and keep you connected during this challenging time. We are gathering resources from our partners and other trusted organizations to help you navigate the changing business world. We will continue to update this page, along with our member programming as more information becomes available.
NAWBO Chicago Newsletter Submissions

NAWBO Chicago newsletters are published monthly. Submit May information to the newsletter editor at [email protected] by May 29, 2020
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