Dear Chamber Members,

Spring is here, and at the Chamber, we’re shaking off the chill and stepping into the sunshine with new energy, a new office, and a whole season of events to help our members and community thrive.

We’ve got something blooming for everyone—starting with our Community Health & Wellness Fair on April 27th, presented by Rush Oak Park Hospital. Join us at the Community Recreation Center for free health screenings, resources, and our always-popular Self-Care Lounge sponsored by the OPRF Community Foundation.

And that’s just the start. May brings the River Forest Memorial Day Parade and Business Bash, and we’ll officially cut the ribbon on our brand-new office on May 28th—come raise a glass with us! June is packed with color and celebration, with Out in the Burbs, our Black Business Fair in partnership with the Village of Oak Park, and the launch of First Fridays, our new rotating street fest series popping up all summer long.



Oh, and let’s not forget BLEND—our brand-new business support network for Black and Latine entrepreneurs. It’s more than a program—it’s a movement. And it's kicking off this spring.



We’re springing into action, and we want you along for the ride. Mark your calendars, invite a friend, and let’s make this season one to remember.

Best,

Darien Marion-Burton

Executive Director

Oak Park - River Forest Chamber of Commerce

RIVER FOREST MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Spring means we can gather together outside and enjoy the company of our neighbors at events like the River Forest Memorial Day parade. And this year, we’re adding to the enjoyment with the Business Bash. Vendor opportunities are available. Click the link below to register and learn more about this exciting event.

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

SPRING INTO ACTION AT THE HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR

The 9th Annual Community Health & Wellness Fair reminds us to prioritize ourselves and our neighbors in the best way possible, by focusing on feeling refreshed. Last year was filled with opportunities to get free health screenings provided by our exclusive sponsor, RUSH Oak Park Hospital and we’re bringing that back plus other events like our Walk with a Doc event and even our Vendor Meet up to give our vendors a chance to connect before the fair, which is sponsored by B-Health. Click below to learn more about this amazing community event and register to attend.  

VILLAGE OF OAK PARK: Black Business Fair

At the Chamber, we value creating and supporting opportunities for all of our community and Chamber members to thrive. That’s why we’re so excited to share the upcoming Black Business Fair as a part of the Village’s Juneteenth cookout celebration on June 14th from 11 am until 3 pm. This is an amazing opportunity for black business owners to showcase their business amongst a vibrant event, including a DJ, kids’ area, and approximately 350 attendees. Learn more about the event and how to become a vendor by clicking the link below to register. 

BUSINESS IS ALL ABOUT HEALTH & WEALTH: TIPS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

It’s a new quarter, and we’re always considering ways to help you stay healthy and wealthy. At the Chamber, we value providing opportunities for our members to connect and build community, while being refreshed and energized. According to Harvard Health Publishing and Inc.com, here are a few simple ways you can prioritize becoming your healthiest self during this Spring season:

• Stress Management- Try new mindfulness or relaxation techniques to help you relax in the midst of a stressful day or month (not that we have those).

• Energy and Resilience- Your physical and mental energy is vital to maintaining a successful business. Moving just 30 minutes a day can make a great difference in your energy levels.



• Social Connection- Make sure you’re connecting with people outside of your household. Healthy interactions help to strengthen your brain cell connection and can reduce isolation and loneliness.

Overall, we want you to be your healthiest self for as long as possible. That's why the Health & Wellness Fair exists and you can do two out of the three tips at the event. If you would like to learn more about simple ways to be healthier as a business owner, check out the articles below and register to attend the Community Health & Wellness Fair. We’ll see you there!

Harvard Health Publishing

Inc.com

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