Association Forum
The "association for associations," our mission is to provide our community with tailored education and resources. www.associationforum.org
Founded in 1916, the Association Forum of Chicagoland today serves 47,000 Chicagoland association professionals whose efforts serve 37 million members and 9 million donors. The activities of Chicagoland associations generate $22 billion in global annual economic impact. The Association Forum of Chicagoland is the "association of associations" for more than 1,500 businesses, charitable, civic and p
30/07/2024
We don't often dedicate time to ourselves, so we're challenging you to do just that on Tuesday, September 10!
Join peers at Association 201 for an intentional focus on your dynamic leadership development and empowerment. Association 201 moderators Jen Salerno, CMP, DES, and Anthony Molino work with you to:
✔️ Harness your strengths
✔️ Identify gaps
✔️ Gain confidence as a dynamic leader
✔️ Inspire growth in yourself and those around you
✔️ Cultivate authenticity
✔️ Minimize burnout
✔️ Empower others
Splurge on a little self-care-leadership-care with a day off from the grind, but a day on for success. >> https://bit.ly/4doXhJs
23/07/2024
Hey, new & experienced people & team leaders! This is it!!
The final days to invest in your personal and professional growth with the Emerging Leaders Program!
Gain:
✔️ Tools
✔️ Growth
✔️ Insights
✔️ Skills
✔️ Relationships
✔️ Purpose
✔️ 18 CAE Hours
Our collaborative partner—The Center for Creative Leadership—is a leading individual and organizational performance expert.
Starts Thursday, July 25! >> https://bit.ly/4dhgv3T
Let's celebrate the red, white, and blue! Take a moment today to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy and honor those who have fought to protect them.
Wishing everyone a day filled with fireworks, barbecues, and good times with family and friends. Stay safe and enjoy the festivities!
The Association Forum office is closed today and tomorrow.
02/07/2024
Before you BRB to the BBQ this holiday weekend, snag your star-spangled savings on the Emerging Leaders Program!
Don't let your leadership journey fizzle out, gain the tools to help it EXPLODE with possibility and sparkle for all to see! Get the full scoop on the Emerging Leaders Program >> https://bit.ly/3VQPYD9
Don't miss the stars, stripes, and savings ending TOMORROW, July 3...reserve your spot, and then you're free to party like it's America's birthday.
Too many 4th of July puns?
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
24/06/2024
Got 5 minutes? Literally, only FIVE minutes...everyone can spare 5 minutes, especially when your contribution is crucial to collecting industry demographic data.
Yes, crucial. We said it.
Our friends at Association Latinos are driving important work with the help of Dynamic Benchmarking to assess the current state of inclusivity, equity, and overall well-being to create industry benchmarks for YOU to develop growth plans for positive change in your organization.
Good news, you can literally help YOU here!
Bad news, it closes TOMORROW! So, stop procrastinating! Again, only 5 minutes can turn into a world of impact! We all need a break, so take yours now!
Here's the link >> https://bit.ly/3xsoc87
19/06/2024
Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a significant milestone in American history marking the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and action. As we honor the resilience and contributions of the Black community, let’s also commit to fostering equality and justice in our workplaces and communities.
Let’s honor this historic day by educating ourselves, supporting Black-owned businesses, and standing up for justice and equality. Together, we can build a future where freedom truly means freedom for everyone.
In observance of Juneteenth, the Association Forum office is closed.
We are less than ONE WEEK away from the Honors Gala!
We've practiced walking the talk, talking the walk, even walking while talking...and we think we've pretty much nailed it. Either way, we're not going to let perfect be the enemy of the good! (credit: Artesha Moore) - We're going to have a great time, and we know those of you joining us will too!
While we've got your attention, we want to acknowledge our wonderful partners who make this event possible! A special shoutout to Chicago Law Partners, LLC, eShow Event Management Solutions, HHGlobal, and Visit Denver!
11/06/2024
Tomorrow!
Join Association Forum staff and volunteers for the FREE Monthly Membership call! This month, our special feature is all about Honors Gala™ and scholarships.
Members and nonmembers are invited to explore how the Association Forum Foundation fuels scholarships to support the current and future industry leaders, plus how you can unlock this special Member Advantage!
Whether you're a seasoned member or just curious, join us for a no pressure, just good vibes and valuable insights! Non-members, you're invited too! No registration is required, but encouraged. Just find the link on the website and let's connect! >> https://bit.ly/3w16Lum
Here's to another fabulous Fri-YAY!
Speaking of fabulous...we're getting so pumped up for the sneaker ball—oh, yeah we're talking about Honors Gala!
We've been doing some serious online shopping, searching for the perfect pair of shoes to WOW everyone when we 'Walk the Talk' up to Theater on the Lake on June 20.
The event is SOLD OUT, but if you want to still make an impact, you can consider donating to the Foundation >> https://bit.ly/3Kvoxd5
If you're looking for inspiration, check out this article on Stepping Up Your Style >> https://bit.ly/3xa3lWT
If your anxious for the shoes you ordered to arrive, well...we unfortunately can't help with speeding up the delivery. Just center yourself, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and visualize yourself in the shoes...that should help for about 2 minutes. Then, just watch this awesome video!
We look forward to seeing all those ready to 'Walk the Talk' at Honors Gala on June 20!
03/06/2024
🌈🎉 Happy Pride Month! 🎉🌈
June is here, and it's time to celebrate the vibrant and resilient LGBTQ+ community! Pride is about embracing who you are, loving without limits, and standing up for the rights of all.
Whether you're marching in parades, supporting friends and family, or simply spreading love and positivity, every action counts. Together, we can create a world where everyone can live authentically and proudly.
Spread love, show support, and remember that pride is not just for June – it's a lifelong journey. Here's to love, acceptance, and a bolder, brighter tomorrow. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
ISO: 15-minute, 1-hour, or 3-hour sessions for Holiday Showcase® Amplify!
We know you are smart, and , and have tips and tricks that would change even the most productive person's day-to-day...so why not share them with your peers at a top industry event?
You have through June 7, to decide you want to make a difference in your community and put together your pitch for yourself and your expertise to be considered for a top slot in our program.
Holiday Showcase is where one idea turns into the game-changer you've been dreaming of, so put yourself in the middle of it all and your voice!
Read more about it >> https://bit.ly/3TXZAv3
27/05/2024
Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage and dedication ensure our freedoms, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Let us take a moment to reflect on their service and express our gratitude to those who continue to protect our nation.
In honor of Memorial Day, the Association Forum Office will be closed today. We look forward to serving you tomorrow.
24/05/2024
Curious about real impact? Hear it straight from the previous cohort about how the Emerging Leader Program makes real waves in their day-to-day, providing tangible results and empowering them as leaders!
Like Ashley Alexander, who said the program "has provided me with effective tools to be a more effective and efficient person, leader, and employee." We all want to be a more efficient person!
We have 2️⃣ pieces of good news:
👉 EARLY BIRD PRICING is available through June 3
👉 there are SCHOLARSHIPS available through June 10
The bad news? That's coming up quick! The next cohort begins on July 25. Get your professional development in gear and start being a more effective and efficient person, leader, and employee! >>https://bit.ly/3yyv7wz
21/05/2024
Don't miss an return this Thursday...
Oh yeah...we're talking about Forum After Dark! Not familiar with Forum After Dark yet?
Let us give you the 411. The beauty is, you can make this event what you want! So, we're not going to tell you what it is...instead, we're going to tell you what it definitely is NOT:
❌ Formal and stuffy—we're pretty , so you can bring your chill self too.
❌ Silent and awkward—no standing in the corner feeling out of place!
❌ A wasted evening—it's not a time sink since you'll meet someone new, talk ideas, and, of course, snacks!
❌ A place to meet Dolly Parton—we try to get her attention for sure, but the reality is, she's pretty busy being awesome. Plus, she isn't a member. So, you can say you have access to an event so exclusive that even Dolly Parton couldn't get in. Pretty cool, right? (TBH, we'd probably totally let her in if she showed up. I mean, Dolly Parton!)
Sold? The first one is THIS THURSDAY—May 23—at our office in downtown Chicago>>https://bit.ly/3V6NgKD
Already busy? We get it...our calendars fill up fast too. That's why you can sign up for ALL the upcoming Forum After Dark dates NOW! We did that so you couldn't use the "busy" excuse again, so get those calendars blocked! 😉 We can't wait to hang out with you!
Get out your snazziest and get ready to Walk the Talk—the Honors Gala is just one month away!
Dressy with a twist is the name of the game, so come as your most authentic (and comfortable) self. Whether you're rocking your classiest heels or your hottest sneakers, it's all about expressing yourself authentically for this celebratory and fundraising event.
We're gearing up to honor our remarkable Honorees and support tomorrow's generation of leaders through the Association Forum Foundation. Although tickets are SOLD OUT, you can still make a meaningful impact by donating to the Foundation. Every contribution counts! >> https://bit.ly/3QxZLMK
16/05/2024
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, the US Asian population grew 81% between 2000 and 2019.
Read this article for ways to recognize the diverse Asian cultures represented in the US. >> https://bit.ly/3yotUYv
After our inaugural Association 201 session, we asked attendees how they would describe this event to their boss or peers...
They had to say things like:
👉 Upskilling or reskilling opportunity
👉 Leadership development symposium
👉 Course to elevate knowledge of trends and best practices
👉 Provides true takeaway's and tangible outcomes
Watch the video and discover why Association 201 is the must-attend program for ambitious professionals like you!
Still looking for more? >> https://bit.ly/3ybg3Vv
Last week, we took a field trip to Theater on the Lake - Restaurant/Events/Theater with our amazing group of honorees and their close peers for a sit-down session. It was a blast getting to know them in a whole new light.
And you know us, we just had to ask the burning questions—like, "What are your favorite shoes and why?" Because hey, when you're walking the talk, every step counts, right?
Their conversations left us feeling inspired, and we can't wait for them to ignite that same spark in YOU at the Honors Gala™ Walk the Talk on June 20! 🔥
But heads up: if you haven't snagged your tickets yet, we're sorry to say they're as rare as unicorn sneakers—We're officially SOLD OUT!
You can still make a difference by donating to the Association Forum Foundation which funds scholarships that support the leaders of tomorrow! >> https://bit.ly/3QxZLMK
Special thanks to our Honorees and their interviewers:
➡️ Christie Tarantino-Dean interviewed by Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE
➡️ Loretta DeLuca interviewed by Norma Castrejon, CAE
➡️ Carlos Cardenas, CAE interviewed by Jose F Segarra, MNA, CAE, CNP
➡️ Emily Muse, CAE interviewed by Laura Witt, MS-HSM
➡️ Mark Del Monte from the American Academy of Pediatrics interviewed by Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE
And special thanks to Theater on the Lake - Restaurant/Events/Theater for hosting us and ReLevel Media for capturing the two days!
09/05/2024
You look like you need to unwind...
..not in one of those 'you look tired' kind of ways because seriously, you look GREAT!
We're just saying, this really cool networking event is coming up in 2 weeks and we'd be really excited if you decided to come and unwind with other association professionals. It's called Forum After Dark—heard of it?
We know what you're thinking...but it's not your grandma's tea party type of event (even though that sounds fabulous). It's a spicy and unique get-together where Association Forum members connect over snacks, sips, and some seriously good vibes.
Sold? Sign up to be there on May 23 today>> https://bit.ly/4b80vAk
If that doesn't work, mark your calendars for upcoming Forum After Dark dates: August 10 (in Columbus, OH), October 17, and February 13.
07/05/2024
Are you an association professional who is new to the industry? OR Do you have staff that are new to associations?
If either of these sounds like you, Associations 101 is the perfect place to get the foundational knowledge needed to be successful and build your industry network!
In just two weeks, come to
✔️ Learn how to navigate the dynamics of associations
✔️How to increase the likelihood of career success, the feeling of belonging, and overall job satisfaction
Special thanks to our moderators for this session of Association 101: Julie Belloli, CAE, and Pam Rosenberg.
Forum+ members can get 10% off registration by sending 5 or more people! Get more information and register today>>https://bit.ly/4dxy3tx
Spring has sprung here at Association Forum and we are celebrating by continuing to put "the U in Forum!"
We also welcome our new Board of Directors Chair, Bob Moore, MA, MS, FASAE, CAE, who has a message for U!
Whether you're new to associations, climbing the career ladder, or leading in the C-suite, Association Forum has something tailored for U. Don't miss out on the member advantage—renew or join today! >> https://bit.ly/4bkfruP
Exciting things await, but they will be even better with U in it!
Become a Welcoming Environment® Champion!
Go beyond theory to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) action with our new Welcoming Environment Champions Program. Our dynamic virtual sessions blend expert-led education with peer discussions, creating a safe space for candid conversations and collaborative problem-solving.
Don't miss this transformative opportunity to overcome challenges, maximize DEI benefits, and foster a culture of inclusivity in your workplace! Learn more about this program>>https://bit.ly/3UDWwps
26/04/2024
Happy Fri-YAY! 🎉
Speaking of YAY...special shout out to our friends at Destination Vancouver who helped us sprinkle YAY into so many of our unforgettable experiences and education like the and this past year.
Right? We know what you're thinking...they totally for the association community and fueled the possibility to new ideas! That's next level YAY...that's
We've got first-hand experience that Vancouver is a big ball of eclectic adventure—simply, they've got the vibes. Now it's your turn to get a dose of what they're serving. Explore their site and see how to add a unique adventure to your next meeting, event, or vacation! (we can all use one of those right?) >>https://bit.ly/3U97iCw
Have you been to Vancouver? Hosted a meeting there? Drop your love in the comments!
ISO: Unique, fun, passionate session proposals for Holiday Showcase: Amplify!
Yup, that's right. The Holiday Showcase call for proposals is NOW OPEN!
We know you are smart, and , and have tips and tricks that would change even the most productive person's day-to-day...so why not share them with your peers at a top industry event?
You have through June 7, to decide you want to make a difference in your community and put together your 15-minute, 1-hour, or 3-hour pitch for yourself and your expertise to be considered for a top slot in our program.
Holiday Showcase is where one idea turns into the game-changer you've been dreaming of, so put yourself in the middle of it all and your voice!
Read more about it >> https://bit.ly/3TXZAv3
15/04/2024
HOT New Member Benefit Alert!
Members, did you notice a new addition to your inbox? We've officially launched BOLD Times—our members-only weekly newsletter.
You can say 'bye bye bye' to the monotony and an 'oh, hey there' to an exciting and curated selection of engaging content right to your inbox.
Get ready for:
✔️ Member spotlights & success stories
✔️ Expert tips and tricks to give you an edge
✔️ Thought-provoking articles and stories that spark creativity
✔️ Fun memes, polls, and interactive content
Who said we had to be all work and no play? We're navigating these BOLD Times together—so, let's shake things up! Nonmembers..you may want to join the community and add a little spice to your life!
Join or renew today and be >> https://bit.ly/3JiRok2
Now is your chance to secure your spot and your brand in front of a highly motivated audience of association professionals and leaders. YES! It's Holiday Showcase time--the premier event for networking and collaboration.
Booth spaces are going quick! Act now and position your brand for success on December 4-5, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
Secure your booth today >> https://bit.ly/3VSWmeU
Did you know...we offer tickets at a special rate for Emerging Leaders at Honors Gala™? But here's the scoop: there's only a limited number of these exclusive tickets available.
Association executives: if you're interested in attending this memorable event, don't miss the opportunity for the leaders of tomorrow on your team to be inspired! Encourage your emerging talents to join the festivities and be part of this incredible experience.
Let's celebrate leadership at every level at this annual FUNdraising event
Learn more and get your ticket or table today >> https://bit.ly/4aMiMTs
02/04/2024
Today we celebrate the ultimate duo - and the association industry! Oh, also PB&J...
In support of perfect pairs, we're excited to support MPI | Chicago Area Chapter at on April 11, at Convene Willis Tower in Chicago.
Connect with us at our booth in the afternoon—we'd love to talk to you about how Association Forum can empower and fuel your professional and personal success...and also if you prefer chunky or creamy peanut butter, really all topics are on the table!
Enjoy your National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day and see you next week!
Register here >> https://bit.ly/3PEcDQT
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| Wednesday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Thursday | 08:00 - 16:30 |
| Friday | 08:00 - 16:30 |