Chamber Advantage

June 8th, 2025

Out in the Burbs was everything we hoped it would be—and more.


This weekend was more than a festival—it was the result of years of vision, planning, and community commitment. It brought together everything I love about Oak Park: joy, purpose, and people who show up for one another.


When I stepped into leadership at the Chamber, I wanted us to think differently about Pride—not just with a flag in the window, but with real, lasting investment. From those early efforts to educate local businesses to now hosting what may be the largest Pride celebration in the near-west suburbs, it’s been an incredible journey. As a queer leader, a 30-year Oak Park resident, and someone who wished for a celebration like this growing up—I can’t overstate what this means. It’s for the queer kid in Forest Park, the trans couple in Berwyn, and every ally who wants to stand up and show support.


Thank you to every partner, sponsor, performer, volunteer, and attendee who brought your energy and joy. This wasn’t just an event—it was our values in action.


We did this together. And we’re just getting started.


With pride,

Darien Marion-Burton

Executive Director

OPRF Chamber of Commerce

THANK YOU TO OUR INCREDIBLE SPONSORS

Out in the Burbs wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Your investment helped us create a vibrant, welcoming space that celebrated LGBTQ+ identity, local business, and the power of community.


When our partners step up, it’s more than funding—it’s a statement of shared values. Thank you for standing with us to make space for joy, connection, and inclusion in the heart of Oak Park. Together, we’re building a community where everyone can thrive.

BLACK BUSINESS & COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR

Join us for an exciting opportunity to showcase your products, services, or support programs at the Black Business Fair — a vibrant part of our Village’s Juneteenth Cookout celebration! We invite Black-owned businesses and community resources to be part of this event — whether you're offering merchandise, services, or programs that support our community, this is your chance to connect, uplift, and inspire.

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

SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE WITH BLEND

BLEND — Oak Park’s Black & Latine Business Support Network — is more than a program. It’s a platform for building power, connection, and community among local entrepreneurs.


Through peer collaboration and expert-led conversations, BLEND supports both emerging and established business owners with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to thrive. We’re here to celebrate brilliance, amplify voices, and grow a more inclusive local economy—together.


Are you a business leader with knowledge to share?


Click the button below to learn how you can get involved as a speaker and help shape the future of entrepreneurship in Oak Park.

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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