Dear ECCI Members:
I hope you are enjoying the spring weather! I’m optimistic for more sunshine as May unfolds.
Thank you to the ECCI members who joined me and the City of Elmhurst’s Economic Development Commission and Explore Elmhurst for “Coaching Skills for People Leaders” on April 24. The event included a presentation followed by a hands-on training session. During the training, ECCI members worked together in pairs to practice key coaching skills, which included live demonstrations, and concluded with a networking opportunity.
We have a fantastic lineup of events this month, starting with our Chamber Business After Hours, hosted by the Lakeside Bank in downtown Elmhurst on Thursday, May 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. This is always a great opportunity to network with fellow members, build connections, and enjoy a relaxed evening in a local setting.
I’m particularly thrilled to announce a new addition to our May calendar: Master Your Voice – A Workshop for Women. Join us on Tuesday, May 20, when fellow ECCI business women will gather for an inspiring evening to gain practical skills and valuable insights for speaking confidently in any setting. Seating is limited and we encourage you to register soon!
In addition to this exciting new program, I’m pleased to share that the Elmhurst Chamber will partner with the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC) for their 2025 Legislative Series. We will be participating in the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce’s event featuring United States Congressmen Sean Casten (D-Illinois 6th District) and Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-Illinois 4th District). This important discussion will take place via Zoom on Friday, May 16, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This is a free event and a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from Congressman Casten on issues impacting our businesses and…
One of my very favorite events of the year is the Spring Road Annual Pet Parade on Saturday, May 17, co-sponsored by the Spring Road Business Association and Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst. I’m delighted that the Elmhurst Chamber will once again sponsor the “Pupcup” stand and the Peanut Butter Licking Contest (for dogs).
Adding to our important community events, we will participate in the Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade, a significant occasion to honor our brave service members, followed by a meaningful ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Wilder Park.
In the spirit of remembrance, the ECCI Centennial Celebration NFP Second Century Fund is supporting the construction of the York Community High School Memorial To The Fallen, honoring 114 alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the ECCI Centennial Celebration NFP Second Century Fund to support this worthy cause. Click HERE to donation online or mail a check to the Chamber.
Upcoming events:
- Chamber Business After Hours hosted by Lakeside Bank on May 8 from 5-7 p.m.
- The Elmhurst Knights of Columbus are hosting a LifeTalks seminar, titled Brain Health, Improving Cognitive Function, Reducing Cognitive Decline, on Thursday, May 1, at The Renaissance Room at 537 . York St.
- Multi-Connections After Hours: Connect, Collaborate and Create new business opportunities on Thursday, May 22, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Click HERE to view all upcoming member events.
Kind regards,
Jennifer Veremis
President and CEO
Please visit our website and explore the community calendar and Hot Deals pages. You’ll find member-exclusive discounts, events and more.
Hospitality Workforce Development
Workforce development remains a critical issue for hotels, with numerous management-level positions available in DuPage and throughout the country, as report by the DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau. College of DuPage offers a variety of flexible, industry-focused educational options in Hospitality Management, including individual courses, certificates, and associate degrees. These programs are designed to fit the busy schedules of working professionals and focus on real-world skills that can immediately enhance workplace performance. Because there are limited tourism/hospitality programs at suburban community colleges, any student interested in enrollment will be offered in-county tuition. Registration is currently open for summer and fall; click HERE to learn more about the program. To develop a customized plan for your staff, e-mail Hospitality Program Chair Mary Beth Leone.
Happy Anniversary
Five members are celebrating their Chamber anniversaries in May as follows: 50 years—Service Express Heating & Air Conditioning; 25 years—Elmhurst Choral Union; 15 years—Floofins & Co.; and 5 years—Cottage Hill Operating Company and Innovation DuPage.
New Members
The following two businesses joined our Chamber in April: Clean4Health LLC and Salvaged Beauty Rugs.
Dropped Members
The Chamber dropped four members in April as follows: Lewis University, Midwest Express Clinic (two locations) and Modern Plate/Stage 119.