President's Message
LISA SHEMROSKE
ASHTON PLACE MARIES CATERING

Greetings to all Chamber members,

As your new Chamber President, I look forward to an exciting term of office representing one of the finest business organizations in the Chicago area (or western suburbs).  As a long-standing and active member of the Willowbrook-Burr Ridge Chamber of Commerce & Industry, I’m very proud of our accomplishments and the important role we take in supporting and enhancing our local businesses.

This year will be especially challenging as we cope with a changing financial climate that affects the retail, real estate, dining, travel and commercial service sectors.  There will be no easy solutions, yet we must remain optimistic and work together to share ideas and find opportunities.  Our Chamber will continue to make a strong commitment to supporting our businesses and communities.  History points to our Chamber’s willingness to be adaptive and innovative as we look for viable ways to be successful.

We draw from the experience of our long-term members, while also welcoming comments and suggestions from our newest members.  During an annual Networking Session held last fall our Chamber Board members were pleased to witness a positive exchange of business ideas.  Such enthusiasm can and should be channeled into more involvement with our Chamber programs and activities.  We encourage all Chamber members to join us as we sponsor such events as the Business Expo, Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon, Fit ‘n Fun Fair and golf outing.  These activities give everyone an opportunity to make a connection with those who live and work in the communities we serve.  Yet another benefit is the camaraderie that results from Chamber members working together.  Friendships that develop often lead to meaningful business relationships.

We have also found that our Business2Business Connections program has been very well received.  The goal is to consider Chamber members first whenever there’s a service or product need.  The support we give to our Chamber members not only helps the businesses, but also generates sales tax revenue for our villages.  We all benefit from working together and supporting each other.

In the past two decades, Willowbrook, Burr Ridge and our Chamber have experienced tremendous change and growth.  There is so much yet to be accomplished.  By embracing a spirit of cooperation through our Chamber, we can maintain a competitive edge.

Help your Business, Join the Chamber!