Chamber Advantage

March 30th, 2025

Dear Chamber Members,


As March winds down, we’re not just closing a month—we’re spotlighting momentum. Women’s History Month reminded us that progress is powered by persistence, and Trans Day of Visibility (March 31) calls us to make that progress inclusive, intentional, and unapologetically visible. At the Chamber, we believe visibility isn’t symbolic—it’s strategic. When more people are seen, more businesses thrive. When more stories are told, stronger networks form. And when we invest in equity, the whole community wins.


Growth means making space—for new ideas, new voices, and yes, new digs. That’s right: the Chamber is officially on the move. More details below, but trust that we’re packing up with purpose.


We’re stepping into spring with clarity, courage, and community. Let’s keep going.

Best,

Darien Marion-Burton

Exective Director

Oak Park River Forest Chamber of Commerce

SEEKING HEALTH + WELLNESS VENDORS


Share your business with us at the Health & Wellness Fair and connect with a community passionate about healthy living. Showcase your products or services alongside 80+ vendors in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.


Don’t miss this chance to grow your brand and reach new customers!



Register Here

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

Check Out Our Full Calendar!

TOMORROW IS TRANSGENDER VISIBILITY DAY


March 31, we recognize Trans Day of Visibility—a day to uplift and celebrate the courage, brilliance, and resilience of trans and gender-expansive people in our community and across the globe.


For many trans individuals, the workplace can be a source of both purpose and pain. While all of us navigate the stresses of work, trans professionals often carry an added weight: the burden of hiding their authentic selves for fear of discrimination, misgendering, or exclusion. This reality is still too common—and too often invisible.


At the Chamber, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and affirmed in the workplace. Visibility matters—but so does action. That’s why we’re committed to fostering spaces where trans and nonbinary people can thrive—not just on paper, but in practice.

Here are three things any workplace can do to move beyond performative support:



  1. Get Pronouns Right
  2. Using someone’s correct name and pronouns isn’t just polite—it’s essential. Make it standard to include pronouns in email signatures and nametags, and offer ongoing education on inclusive language.


  1. Review Policies & Culture
  2. Gender-neutral bathrooms, inclusive dress codes, and trans-affirming health benefits send a clear message: You belong here. Policies shape culture—and culture shapes retention, engagement, and wellbeing.


  1. Support, Don’t Save
  2. Trans people don’t need saving—they need support. Create space for open dialogue, but don’t speak for trans colleagues unless they’ve asked. Instead, amplify their voices, honor their leadership, and ask how you can show up as an ally.
  3. 

We know that visibility alone isn’t enough. But visibility paired with action, education, and empathy can create meaningful change—not just for trans people, but for everyone.

To our trans neighbors, colleagues, and friends: we see you, we value you, and we’re grateful for all the ways you lead, contribute, and show up. You make our business community stronger.

BABY EXPO AND COMMUNITY SCREENING DAY


Enjoy two events at the same time at the Baby Expo and Community Screening Day on April 5th from 10 am to 12 pm. The Baby Expo will allow you to connect with other new, trying and expecting families, get resources, meet doulas and more. While the Community Screening Day will offer free dental, hearing, vision and development screenings to children 1 month to 5 years old.


This is a great opportunity and fun way to learn about resources for children and families as they develop. Registration encouraged.

Learn More

NEW CHAMBER OFFICE

As our organization continues to grow, we're excited to move to 1101 Lake Street in the first week of April. This new space will allow us to better connect, support, and elevate our community.


We can’t wait to welcome you there and stay tuned for more details!

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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