As we enjoy this Thanksgiving week, let’s take a moment to count our many blessings and let those we appreciate know how thankful we are to have them in our lives. Perhaps you have a neighbor who routinely shows kindness to you and your family without expecting anything in return. This week is the perfect time to extend a gesture of friendship and thanks for the good deeds and overall happiness they bring to your life.
Thanksgiving also marks the official beginning of the holiday shopping season. This Saturday, November 28 is Small Business Saturday. Especially this year, when our small businesses have had to endure so much, I would encourage you to shop small and support your favorite small businesses on Saturday and throughout the holiday shopping season. As a consumer, you hold the key in helping small businesses thrive. When you shop small, you are showing support for your community’s job creators and you are helping them stay afloat during very difficult economic times.
Nationwide there are more than 31.7 million small businesses. Of those, 1.2 million are located in Illinois. Illinois small businesses employ more than 2.5 Illinoisans, or nearly half of the state’s workforce. Small businesses represent 99.6% of all Illinois businesses.
American Express has created a link where you can find some small businesses in your area (the list is not a complete list). I would also invite you to visit our area’s Chamber of Commerce web sites for additional information for shopping local.
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
West Suburban Chamber of Commerce
Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce
Greater Winfield Chamber of Commerce
Please be safe this Thanksgiving season, and on behalf of my staff and me, please accept my very best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving.