Groups: FLEX: Future Leaders Exchange

(formerly Young Professionals)

Welcome to the FLEX Affinity Group, an exciting initiative within the OPRF Chamber dedicated to nurturing the aspirations of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. FLEX, an acronym for Future Leaders Exchange, embodies the dynamic spirit of this group, creating a vibrant space for individuals embarking on their business and leadership journey.

When Does this Group Meet?

FLEX will be making a splash in 2024! We've got an incredible list of events planned! Typically speaking our meeting will be the third or fourth Wednesday of the month! FLEX offers a diverse set of times to accommodate as many of its constituents as possible. 

Where Does this Group Meet?

All over the community! The mission of this group is to get out of the office, see what's new and have fun so there is no set meeting place. Keep a keen eye on the Chamber's Community Calendar for specific locations.

Want Regular Updates?

If you'd like to get involved and receive regular updates on what the FLEX Affinity Group is up to, just send an email to Mark Walden (mwalden@oprfchamber.org) to get added to our mailing list!

Meet the Leaders

Meet the fabulous co-chairs for 2024!

Symone Speech, Executive Director of Compass College Advisory 

Ben Stumpe, Marketing Representative at Growing Community Media

This leader wants to hear from YOU, so if you want to get involved, have ideas or burning issues you think would make great topics, reach out directly to them. Ben can be reached at Ben@Oakpark.com.  Symone can be reached at symone@compasscollegeadvisory.com.

MEET-UPS IN 2024

JANUARY 25, 2024 (5pm-7pm) - Explore the art of creating delectable mocktails with Donnie Biggins, the owner of Roberts Westside. Donnie will guide us through the process of crafting two exquisite mocktails, sharing his expertise and insider tips on achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Participants will also receive recipe cards for Syrups & Non-Alcoholic Cocktails to recreate these delightful drinks at home.

RSVP and details are RIGHT HERE

FEBRUARY 22, 2024 (5pm-7pm) - Fun & Flirty: Confidence through Standup. Join us at our newest event venue - Comedy Plex Comedy Club in Oak Park!

CLICK HERE to come along and join the fun!

MARCH 20, 2024 (evening) - Pottery & Painting 

Join us at one of our local ceramic studios! Get a head-start on Mother's Day gifts or just make something fabulous for your office.

Registration will be open shortly. 

APRIL 17, 2024 (evening) - Dress for Success & Professionalism

In this post-pandemic world, what does professional attire mean? Can your "party up top" Zoom casual clothes cut it when meeting in person? Are high heals and business shoes a thing of the past? Change out of your sweatpants and join us for this informative and fun event!

You do not want to miss this program! Registration deets are coming soon! 

MAY 15, 2024 (evening) - Brewery Tour and Rooftop Drinks

Join us at one of our local breweries for a peek behind the curtain at how they make your fav brews. 

Hold tight - registration will be open soon!

JUNE 29, 2024 (morning) - 2nd Annual Drag Brunch

Help us close out PRIDE month in style. Great food, fabulous friends and amazing entertainment. You do not want to miss!

(Want more info on our PRIDE activities and resources? CLICK HERE to check it out.

JULY 17, 2024 - (evening) - Adulting 101

Join us for a fun workshop to learn about the basics of real estate, finance and taxes.

We will have registration live sooner than you know it!

AUGUST 14, 2024 - (evening) - Rosé Wine Tasting

Gone are the days when Rosé was mixed with soda for a summer spritz. Rosé has come a long way and you will have a front row seat to taste why that is.

Hold your sox! Registration will be open soon!

SEPTEMBER 18, 2024 - (evening) - Glow in the Dark Kick-ball

Yup, we are taking advantage of the summer months and getting active. 

Check back soon for more details.

OCTOBER 30, 2024 - (evening) - 3rd Annual OPRF Chamber Trivia Night

Get your best Halloween costume out and get ready to strut your stuff. There will be prizes for costumes and trivia aficionados. In past years competition has been fierce, so get started with your planning NOW!

Check back soon for more details.

NOVEMBER 20, 2024 - (evening) - Movie Night

That's right - get ready for popcorn and a movie with your Chamber FLEX friends.

Check back soon for more details.

DECEMBER 18, 2024 - (daytime) - White Elephant Gift Exchange - A Chamber tradition!

We are bringing back our much-loved White Elephant gift exchange.

Check back soon for more details.

What did we do in 2023?

Check out what we did last year!

Have an Idea for a Meet-up?

Do you have a fabulous place you would like to take the group? Know that perfect "hidden gem" location you want to share? Email our FLEX staff liasion and Executive Director Darien Marion-Burton and tell him all about it! Email Darien at dmarion-burton@oprfchamber.org.