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Greetings Members, Friends & Partners,
We’re soaking up these last golden days of summer — but all eyes are already on what’s next. As kids head back to school and our calendars shift into fall mode, the Chamber is gearing up for one of the biggest celebrations of the year...
Voting is open for the annual Spotlight Awards! This is your chance to recognize the businesses and organizations that make Oak Park and River Forest such a vibrant community. Cast your vote today — then join us in November at the Spotlight Soirée, where we’ll gather to announce the winners and toast to their success in true Chamber style.
It’s the perfect way to turn the page from summer into a season of recognition, connection, and celebration.
The best is yet to come,
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Darien Marion-Burton
Executive Director
Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce
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HAVE YOU SUBMITTED YOUR NOMINATION?
Nominations are open for the 2025 OPRF Chamber Spotlight Awards! This is your chance to celebrate the businesses and organizations that make our community thrive.
Award Categories:
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Community Character – for the businesses that embody our community spirit
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Customer Experience – for those who make every visit unforgettable
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Excellent Eats – for the eateries we can’t wait to show off
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Local Legend – honoring longtime cornerstones of our community
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New & Notable – for fresh businesses already making a big impact
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Small Business Superhero – for the ones who went above and beyond
Submit your nomination now and help us recognize the incredible contributions of our local heroes.
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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.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the excitement!
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CHEERS TO VOLUNTEERING (AND MARKETING!)
Looking for a unique way to get your brand in front of the community? Chamber members can volunteer at Oaktoberfest — a fun, fast-paced opportunity to both serve and shine.
When you sign up, you’re not just helping run the festival — you’re also promoting your business. Wear your branded gear, hand out giveaways, and connect directly with hundreds of festival-goers while representing both your company and the Chamber. Perks also include a free souvenir mug, three drink tickets!
Please note this opportunity is exclusive to Chamber members, and spots are limited — one shift per business.
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ELEVATE YOUR BRAND AT THE ANNUAL MEETING
The Chamber’s Annual Meeting is our premier gathering of 150+ business leaders, community partners, and decision-makers. As a sponsor, your brand will be front and center at one of the most anticipated events of the year — gaining premium exposure, recognition, and the chance to connect directly with the people shaping Oak Park and River Forest’s business community.
Show your support for local business, highlight your leadership, and align your company with the Chamber’s bold vision for the year ahead.
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CHAMBER BENEFIT: RIBBON CUTTINGS
One of the most exciting perks of Chamber membership is the chance to mark your big moments with an official ribbon cutting. Whether you’re opening your doors for the first time, celebrating a renovation or expansion, or reaching a milestone anniversary, we’ll help you make it unforgettable.
Our ribbon cutting package includes advance promotion, a ceremony complete with giant scissors and ceremonial sashes, and post-event publicity to showcase your success. It’s a perfect way to connect with the community, highlight your business, and share your story.
Members receive one ribbon cutting per year — let’s celebrate your next big milestone together!
| | Our community partners are doing amazing things. Here, we'll share exciting updates to inspire you to get involved! | | |
COOK COUNTY SMALL BUSINESS SOURCE
Running a business comes with challenges at every stage — and the Cook County Small Business Source is here to help. Whether you’re just starting out, managing day-to-day operations, or looking to grow, The Source connects you with the tools, resources, and guidance your business needs to thrive.
Best of all, members can access no-cost, one-on-one business advising with expert advisors who can help you create a plan, solve challenges, and seize new opportunities.
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SOUTH TOWN FIRST FRIDAYS IS ALMOST HERE
Mark your calendars for Friday, September 5, when the First Fridays series lights up Southtown. Enjoy an evening filled with live music, local food vendors, indie shops, and plenty of community fun.
The celebration takes place in the municipal lot behind Carnival Grocery and Fifth Third Bank — the perfect spot to kick off your weekend with neighbors, friends, and family. Don’t miss the next stop in this summer-long series of block parties!
We’re also looking for friendly faces to help make the night happen. Sign up and be part of the fun behind the scenes!
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