Chamber Advantage

A Message from Our New Executive Director

What an honor it is to step into this role, and what a privilege to do so from within this remarkable organization.

Having spent the past year working alongside our members, partners, and community leaders, I've watched firsthand how this Chamber transforms good ideas into lasting impact. My extensive background in nonprofit leadership and community engagement has taught me that sustainable growth comes from listening deeply, building meaningful partnerships, and showing up consistently for the people we serve.

I am energized by what lies ahead and deeply grateful for the trust this organization has placed in me. Together, we have something special here. And we're just getting started.

With gratitude and excitement,

Melissa Mallinson

Executive Director

OPRF Chamber of Commerce

RALLY 'ROUND FOR RIVER FOREST

Calling festival sponsors and vendors! The Business Bash is returning to River Forest's beautiful Keystone Park on Monday, May 25. This family-friendly celebration of neighbors, veterans, and civic pride kicks off immediately after the River Forest Memorial Day Parade.

Participation is FREE for River Forest- and veteran-owned businesses and discounted for Chamber members. It's a fantastic way to feature your business in our area's official kickoff to summer fun.

Want your brand to make a bigger impact? Sponsorship tiers start at $250 and every additional sponsorship dollar may allow us to offer live entertainment, kids' activities, and more – meaning your support will also have a real hand in shaping what the day becomes.

Learn More

Click on any graphic to get more information about the event and to sign up.

Explore what's in store, including fun and educational activities happening throughout.

COMING UP THIS WEEK

PLAN YOUR MONTH

Check Out Our Full Calendar!

The Oak Park–River Forest Chamber has partnered with the Village of Oak Park Office of Economic Vitality, Dominican University's Brennan School of Business, and the SBA to bring a week of free programming to our community for National Small Business Week 2026.

Four events, four topics, all free — here's what's on the calendar.

Monday, May 4

Resources for Women & Minority-Owned Business Enterprises

Panel & Open House

Learn More

Tuesday, May 5

Small Business Funding & Financing

Panel Discussion

Learn More

Wednesday, May 6

Starting Your Small Business In Oak Park

Panel Discussion

Learn More

Thursday, May 7

Small Business Resource Breakfast

Hosted by Dominican University

Learn More

All events are free and open to Oak Park small business owners, Oak Park residents who own businesses, and Chamber members and prospective members. Registration is required or encouraged depending on the event — click through for details.

View Full Schedule & Register

THANK YOU TO THE COMMITTEE!

The 10th Annual Health & Wellness Fair didn't come together by accident. Our planning committee — a group of professionals who already serve this community every day through their own organizations — went above and beyond to build an event that united 70+ health and wellness providers under one roof.

Please join us in thanking them:

Sun-Hee Yoon, Sage Lifestyle Concierge

Lori Malinski, Village of Oak Park Department of Public Health

Rahula Strohl, Rush Oak Park Hospital

Carey Carlock, Mosaic Counseling & Wellness

Fatima Villasenor, Riveredge Hospital

Jeff Long and Terron Edmonds, Fitness Formula Clubs

We're grateful for their generosity, their expertise, and their commitment to this community. See you at year 11!

That’s it for this week—thanks for reading and for helping our business community thrive together!

Stay Connected

Hungry for more? Follow us on social media below. Or, fill out our Member Connections Form to choose updates on programs, events, and get involved.

Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce

1101 Lake St., Suite 307, Oak Park, IL 60301

708.613.0550 | info@oprfchamber.org | www.oprfchamber.org