Chamber Advantage

January 26th, 2025

Hi Everyone!


For those who don't know me or my background to the OPRF Chamber, I'm Mike Lavery of Excel Window Tinting. I joined the Chamber of Commerce around 2007 or so. At the time, it was known for its monthly Business After Hours and the annual golf outing. Membership was around 250 businesses. I joined with the intention to establish roots in our wonderful community. It allowed me to help other people make connections that would enable them to grow their businesses.


Since then, it’s been amazing to watch the Chamber grow, mature, and become incredibly relevant with over 500 members! What I didn’t realize initially was that the Chamber is led not only by an Executive Director, but also by a Board of Directors with 20 dedicated members (with me being one of them!)


It takes a variety of businesses and individuals, with diverse ideas and energy, to make our organization exceptional. Our multiple ribbon cuttings each week demonstrate how the number of new businesses continues to grow. I’m always excited to meet new people and hear about their businesses and plans for growth!

There’s something unique about that initial energy when first starting out that I remember so clearly. The Chamber has enabled me to grow my own business and personally through my connections with the people I’ve engaged with these past years.


In addition to enjoying the monthly Business After Hours, the upcoming Bite Nite event provides another engaging opportunity for connection. Bite Nite was conceived by a prior Board Member who thought Oak Park should have their own version of restaurant week.


If you enjoy the local food scene and you haven’t been, you’re missing out on something special. Mark your calendar for this coming Friday and I look forward to seeing you there!



Best,

Michael Lavery

Owner | Excel Window Tinting, Inc.

SPEED NETWORKING


Join us for a fabulous evening where you can connect with old friends and meet new colleagues. We can help you get a LOT done in two short hours!


Date: February 26, 2025

Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Location: Concordia University

The Walter and Maxine Christopher Center for Learning and Leadership;

7400 Augusta St. River Forest, IL 60305

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 THE MONTH:

Check Out Our Full Calendar!

Our community partners are doing amazing things. Each week, we'll share exciting updates to inspire you to get involved!

Annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Workshop


The Village invites non-profit organizations serving the #OakPark community to attend the annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) workshop for Program Year 2025. This virtual workshop will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. Attendees will receive a comprehensive overview of the CDBG application process, including required documents, timelines and reporting obligations.

Non-profits interested in applying for federal CDBG funding are encouraged to participate in this essential workshop.

Complete the Form
Register Here

Cook County Small Business Source: Bookkeeping Basics


What is small business bookkeeping and why is it important to keep records for your business?


Join A4CB Business Coach Sabina Loving on our next free coaching webinar to learn about types of records small business owners are required to keep, how long to keep your records, and how to format your records.

DCEO

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3) is pleased to announce the OE3 Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program.


This program will provide funding to small businesses owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI) or Very Small Businesses (VSBs) for capital improvement and infrastructure projects.

Details of Eligibility
Email their Team
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Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce

141 S Oak Park Avenue, Suite 3 Oak Park, IL 60302


708.613.0550 | info@oprfchamber.org | www.oprfchamber.org