Grayslake Gives:

Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce

For over 75 years, the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce has been much more than a business organization – it has been a driving force behind community connection, economic vitality, and a spirit of giving that touches families, businesses, and students across Grayslake and Lake County.

Established on March 7, 1950, and having just celebrated their 75th anniversary in 2025, the Chamber has grown into a dynamic network of more than 360 individual members, guided by a dedicated president, 24-member board of directors, and executive director who manages daily operations and events.

While rooted in Grayslake, the Chamber welcomes businesses throughout Lake County where there is meaningful opportunity for connection, collaboration, and mutual benefit within the Grayslake business community. This inclusive approach reflects the Chamber’s broader mission to foster a vibrant, supportive, and business-friendly environment that strengthens not just individual enterprises, but the community at large.

A Year of Community Events & Traditions

The Chamber’s impact is most visible to the community through signature events that bring friends, neighbors, and visitors together. Since January 2022, the Chamber has kicked off the new year with Skate in the Park held in January, a family-friendly event that invites community members to gather outdoors and enjoy winter together through skating, a bonfire, and games out on the ice rink in Gelatin Park.

The year culminates the day after Thanksgiving with the beloved Festival of Lights and Holiday Market, a festive community celebration that signals the start of the holiday season with a holiday parade, lighting of the town, vendors, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more. Between those two bookend events, the Chamber hosts a robust calendar of programming – most located in historic downtown Grayslake - that blend fun, connection, and purpose. Such events include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration which will enter its second year on March 14, 2026, in partnership with the Grayslake Village Center, Grayslake Summer Nights, Grayslake Summerfest, the Business Trick-or-Treat and more.

One of the Chamber’s other more notable events is the annual Grayslake Craft Beer Festival (Sips for Scholarships), co-hosted with the Exchange Club of Grayslake. More than just a celebration of craft brews, this event serves a higher purpose as proceeds are split between the two organizations and all funds raised are used for student scholarships. Likewise, the proceeds from the Chamber’s 5K Family Fun Run and Walk that takes place each July are also used for scholarships. Eligible students are those living in D127 boundaries attending schools including Grayslake Central, Grayslake North, Carmel Catholic, and Westlake Christian Academy.

Students can visit the Chamber’s website to fill out an application through March 31, 2026. Scholarships are awarded in late spring and presented in check form giving winners the opportunity to use funds toward tuition, books, a new computer, or any other need as they begin college. The Chamber’s commitment to youth education emphasizes their commitment to investing in the future of Grayslake by investing in today’s students.

Business Support

Beyond events, the Chamber plays a vital role in supporting local businesses every day. Through ribbon cuttings, networking events, monthly membership meetings, educational lunches and after-hours gatherings, members have regular opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together – not to mention build strong business relationships and friendships.

New in 2026, the Chamber now offers small business grants to eligible members, which are an especially valuable resource for businesses looking to expand, renovate, or take a new direction in their business. Through the Chamber’s website and social media channels, the Chamber also actively promotes local businesses, helping amplify their visibility within the community and beyond.

Perhaps something that really sets the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce apart is its culture. Executive Director, Maribeth Hamm describes the chamber as being “highly collaborative and genuine. This is a group of people who truly care about each other and want to be here.”

As current Chamber President Randy Cashmore stated, “You really get out of the Chamber what you put into it. Getting involved makes all the difference. We have a very supportive, unique group of people in the Chamber. It’s very personal here; I don’t know if you’d see that as much in other places.”

An Opportunity to Serve and Give Back

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Chamber is its approach to volunteerism. You don’t have to be a member to get involved – church groups, civic organizations, individual residents – all are invited to help support events throughout the year. Whether assisting at the Craft Beer Fest, the 5K, or other community activities, volunteers play a crucial role in the Chamber’s success and their events’ success.

The open invitation reflects a simple truth here in Grayslake. The Chamber thrives because it is rooted in people including business owners, families, students, and neighbors who all care about the community. If you would like to get involved in volunteering, please contact Maribeth Hamm by phone at 847-223-6888 or via email at thegreatergrayslakechamber@gmail.com.

As a long-time chamber member, turned executive director since 2019 Hamm said, “Being part of the Chamber has been so rewarding. The people care about one another and are committed to doing good – not just for their businesses, but for the entire community. Some of the most wonderful friendships and community bonds I’ve made have been through volunteering with the Chamber over the years.”

Grayslake Gives

At its core, the Chamber embodies the spirit of “Grayslake Gives”. Through scholarships awarded, community events, business support, and volunteer opportunities, it strengthens the fabric of our village in so many meaningful ways and gives back to so many.

“This is such a special town,” said Cashmore. “Doing my part in the Chamber brings me so much joy. I love seeing Grayslake do well and people truly enjoy the town they work, live, and raise their families in. I feel like other towns aren’t doing the special things Grayslake is doing. From events like the tree lighting (Festival of Lights), the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and 5K to name a few – I’m so thankful to serve in the chamber and positively impact our community.”

As a community member, if you’re considering attending an event or volunteering at one, as a business owner if you’re thinking about joining, or a student who is ready to pursue higher education and looking for scholarship money, just remember the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce is here and doing so much (visibly and behind the scenes) to create opportunities, build connections, and give back.

Thank you to the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce and the impact made over the last 75 years. We are excited to see what the next 75 will bring to the Grayslake community.

2026 Events in the Village Center