Arts & Business Council

A&BC believes that by helping businesses and arts organizations connect, Chicago’s cultural sector becomes stronger and more vibrant. Over our 25 year history we’ve connected arts and business through programs like Business Volunteers for the Arts and On BOARD and events like the Arts/Business forums of yesteryear. Last year, A&BC added one more way to connect arts and business leaders—our summer party, Connect 4 the Arts.

“We realized that we needed another way to introduce business professionals—who could potentially help the cultural community by serving as board members or participating as volunteer consultants—to the arts administrators that work so hard to create powerful and assessable arts experiences,” notes A&BC Director of Development Kristie Willis. “It also seemed like a great opportunity to enjoy Chicago’s amazing summer weather and have some fun.”

Having a summer party also provides an opportunity for our current volunteers including BVAs, On BOARD graduates, workshop presenters and committee members to mingle with each other and the arts groups they’ve come to know and love through their association with A&BC. BVA Program Manager, Katie Kurcz adds, “So many of our BVAs work together on a project and have a positive experience together. Then once the project is complete they don’t get a chance to see each other anymore. Events like Connect 4 are great ways for BVAs and arts groups to reconnect.”

A&BC believes that Connect 4 the Arts offers four ways to connect: to the A&BC and the programs and services we offer; to the diverse and dynamic Chicago arts community; to people who share your passion for the arts; and finally to a community of professionals from a wide-range of arts and business sectors.

Last year’s inaugural Connect 4 the Arts event was a smash success with over 300 attendees. A&BC board member and Managing Director of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide attests to the vibe of Connect 4 the Arts, “Chicago is a city that has a great passion for the arts and culture.  It’s a passion that lives even within the heart of the business community,” he adds, “It’s always fun and uplifting to gather people together, mingling those from the arts and business, and seeing the enthusiasm that is generated. It was an event that gave proof to the mission of the Arts & Business Council.”

What to expect at this year’s Connect 4 the Arts event? With your $40 ticket you’ll get two drink tickets for Goose Island beer, delicious appetizers, music by local band, The Damn Hoovers, and good conversation. Weather permitting, we’ll be outside on Carmichael’s spacious patio. We’re also planning a Chicago-style raffle, so bring your good luck. Registration is open.

This year, Connect 4 the Arts will be held on July 22, 2010 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., at Carmichael’s Chicago Steakhouse (1052 W. Monroe. Free valet parking is available). For groups of 10 or more people, call Kristie Willis at (312) 372-1876, ext. 227, for a group discount. Join us!