Chamber Advantage

September 4th, 2023

Labor Day traditionally marked the transition from summer to fall, the symbolic end of the white wardrobe season, and the beginning of the academic year. However, just like the early release of pumpkin spice at a certain coffee conglomerate, Covid-19 has shifted this deadline. With a noticeable chill in the air this week, it's safe to say that winter whites are making their debut.


In a world where everything seems to move at a rapid pace, I hope you found a moment to relax today. The life of a business leader is often characterized by constant hustle and hard work. Without that dedication and labor, where would our community be? We wouldn't have the places to shop, dine, and socialize that we cherish. I certainly wouldn't have a job either! So, thank you, and Happy Labor Day.

Darien Marion-Burton

Executive Director

OPRF Chamber of Commerce

#chamberLOVE

Plan Your Week!


What is coming up this week?



We know you are busy. To help make it easier and help you to join us at as many things as you would like, we have gathered our events for this week.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Thursday Sep 7, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Nonprofit Affinity Group: Annual Appeal Tune-up!

Come join the Chamber's nonprofit group! This month we'll be learning about how to improve our organizations' annual appeals. Our resource person is Joanna Skubish, Director of Annual Giving at Dominican University, and former fundraiser with Sarah's Inn and the Park District of Oak Park. Come learn about this timely topic as we enter the fall fundraising season! 

REGISTER HERE!

Friday Sep 8, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM -

Women in Business Meeting

We're kicking off fall with a little attention to getting our financial houses in order. This month, Susie Goldschmidt, Denise Warren and Judette Kurasz from Byline Bank will be presenting on Fraud Prevention. There are ever more ways that unscrupulous folks are working to rip people off - come learn what the latest scams are, and what you need to do to avoid them! Plus, as always, enjoy the company of fellow women from the local business, nonprofit, and government communities - this is a wonderful group and we're glad for you to be part of it!

REGISTER HERE!


Plan Your Month!


Like to plan ahead?


Here are some events we have coming up over the next month so you can register now and receive a reminder right before the event.


Come join us for these wonderful networking opportunities and continue to grow your business!

Tuesday Sep 12, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM -

Business After Hours - Oak Park Conservatory

Join us at our regular monthly networking event, Business After Hours (BAH), on the second Tuesday of every month. All members and non-members are welcomed. (Members are free.) Where Are We Meeting This Month?

The Oak Park Conservatory, operated by the Park District of Oak Park with the support of the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. 

REGISTER HERE!

Friday Sep 15, 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM -

Takeout Stakeout at Kyuramen

Come join your fellow Chamber members for our next Takeout Stakeout, this time at Kyuramen! In this event, we convene at a designated restaurant to pick up our takeout lunch choices, and get to see each other for a bit while we're at it. Lunch is a flat $16 including tax and tip

REGISTER HERE!

Wednesday Sep 20, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM -

ACL 2nd Chance Shop STOP&SHOP Member Sale Day

Drop by Animal Care League Second Chance Shop during regular business hours on Wednesday, September 20:

  • Meet the owners of this iconic Oak Park store.
  • Receive 15% off your purchase all day (during normal open hours).
  • Tell them that you are a member of the OPRF Chamber of Commerce. We guarantee they will take care of you and will find something you didn't know you needed!
SET A REMINDER!


Health & Wellness Affinity Group Cornhole Tournament

Join us for a day of camaraderie, laughter, and some friendly competition at the OPRF Chamber of Commerce Health and Wellness Cornhole Tournament. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy company, and get ready for the upcoming holiday season. We look forward to seeing you there!

What to expect: Expect a laid-back atmosphere filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a sense of community. Feel free to BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) to enjoy as you toss those bags and soak up the sun. We've got your cravings covered with delicious food offerings provided on-site, ensuring that your taste buds are as satisfied as your competitive spirit. It's a perfect blend of relaxation, camaraderie, and healthy competition – all set against the backdrop of our beautiful community. So, gather your team, grab your favorite drinks, and come hungry for an afternoon of wellness and fun!

REGISTER HERE!

OPRF Chamber Annual Meeting 2023

Celebrate & Commemorate ALL Things Chamber!

Join us in commemorating our collective achievements and learning about the exciting endeavors we have planned for the organization.

What is the Annual Meeting? The Annual Meeting is the official annual gathering of Chamber members and local business leaders to celebrate previous year accomplishments and set the stage for the upcoming year.

150+ attendees may enjoy a light breakfast, networking & our program.

REGISTER HERE!

Volunteer with The Chamber at Oaktoberfest in DTOP

Chamber members will be volunteering in the ticket booth!

  • Work a fast-paced 3hr. shift with colleagues and friends.
  • Promote your business to the community.
  • Get a FREE souvenir mug and three drink tickets! Stay on after your shift and enjoy live music, amazing brews and local food all night long. (only one free mug per volunteer).

Promote Your Business

While you are volunteering, you can also be promoting your business!

  • Wear branded gear so people see where you are from.
  • Bring your promotional products and giveaways.
  • Talk to the community about the Chamber and your business.
  • This opportunity is for Chamber members (in good standing) only. That's why it's a great time to be part of the Chamber!
REGISTER HERE!

Illinois Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program:

(Registration and exemption deadline is Nov. 1 for employers that had an average of 5-15 employees in 2022)


Per State law, employers with 5 or more Illinois employees that have been in business for at least 2 years and that don’t offer a tax-qualified retirement plan are required to register for and facilitate Illinois Secure Choice or adopt their own qualified plan.

Register for the Illinois Secure Choice webinar here:

REGISTER HERE!

Oak Park River Forest Chamber of Commerce


141 S Oak Park Avenue

Suite 3


708.613.0550


info@oprfchamber.org


www.oprfchamber.org

This eBlast was sent out by the OPRF Chamber of Commerce on behalf of a member in good standing as a member benefit. For information about the event described please contact the host. For information about joining the Chamber, click our website below.

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