Dear village,

I'm popping in for a quick hello this week, before hurrying back to prep for the Madison Street Festival, our next event in the First Fridays series. Learning that festival production would be part of my work when I joined the Chamber staff this year was a thrill! Community events bring together all the best things I love about our area- great food, amazing music, local vendors and dear friends and neighbors.  

I'll see you on Friday, August 1 at the Fenwick High School lot from 5pm-9pm!

Warmly,

Melissa Mallinson

Director of Programming & Membership

OPRF Chamber of Commerce

P.S. I've attached a picture from my early days in event production, hanging out with the backstage crew and Robert Plant!

MADISON FIRST FRIDAYS IS ALMOST HERE!

The wait’s over. Madison Street is about to light up with music, food, art, and nonstop community energy. This month’s entertainment lineup brings a perfect mix of alt‑Americana, blues, and high‑energy rock — the ideal soundtrack for a summer night out.

Click the graphic to learn more.

Thinking about getting involved? Now’s the time.

Vendors get to sell their goods, promote a cause, or connect with the community. Volunteers score a front‑row seat to the action, meet new neighbors, and help bring the magic to life.

Pick your district and join us:

Want to pitch in—or know someone who does? Volunteers get a front-row seat to the action, connect with neighbors, and help make First Fridays happen.

If you have any questions, email programming@oprfchamber.org

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!

COMING UP THIS WEEK

PLAN FOR YOUR MONTH

NEED SUPPORT FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS?

Running a small business is tough—but you don’t have to do it alone. The Cook County Small Business Source is here to help with free, personalized support for Cook County entrepreneurs.

Through one-on-one advising, informative events, and curated resources, The Source connects small business owners with trusted experts to help them grow and thrive. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, you’ll gain access to:

• Expert advising through a network of Business Support Organizations (BSOs)
• In-person and virtual events on funding, marketing, taxes & more
• A curated list of resources for businesses at any stage

Since 2020, The Source has distributed $67M in grants and served over 28,000 businesses—80% of which are BIPOC-owned.

Click the button below for more details and sign-up!

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