Elmhurst Chamber Safely Resumes In-Person Networking

In compliance with the Phase 4: Revitalization guidelines within Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois plan, the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry in late July safely resumed monthly networking events—likely the first chamber in the state to do so.

Considering how ECCI has maintained regular office hours and retained a furlough-free staff throughout the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, our Chamber’s position as a business organizer leader is a given.

Not since the March 11 monthly Business After Hours hosted by Green St. Grille in downtown Bensenville—a span of more than four months—had members from our business community been able to gather for the purpose of widening their circle of contacts.

In-person networking started back up again July 22 at the monthly Membership Breakfast co-hosted by the Elmhurst Park District and Whole Foods Market at the Salt Creek Park Pavilion, with the Phase 4 maximum of nearly 50 members in attendance, including Illinois State Representative Deanne Mazzochi (R-47 th District).

Our Chamber offered hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and face masks for attendees, all of whom came prepared with face masks of their own, the outdoor venue easily allowed our members to maintain the recommended six feet of social distancing if unmasked for any reason.

Rather than serving themselves from the typical hot breakfast buffet, members made do with fruit granola bar and an apple in an individual paper bag (as prepared by Whole Foods Market) along with a large bottle of water.

Serving food and beverages was even less of a concern at the July 28 monthly Business After Hours co-hosted by Elmhurst Brewing Co. and Workvana in Elmhurst Brewing’s outdoor patio, thanks to the well-tested wait staff.

Come late August, Lexington Square of Elmhurst will host our BAH and our Membership Breakfast will be co-hosted by Helping Hands Cleaning Service and PCT Disinfecting.