RISE Springfield

👔👚👗Be part of the RISE Give & Take team!

Whether you're sorting donations Friday or keeping things organized and helping neighbors build their professional wardrobe Saturday, you'll be making a real difference in our community. Snacks and water provided. Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/bd4u345

That sweater you haven't worn since 2019? It's time. The RISE Clothing Drive is happening soon, drop off your gently-used clothes, then swing back the next day to find your new favorite piece. Details below!

📚 Book Recommendation 📚

This month, we’re reading Think Faster, Talk Smarter by Matt Abrahams, all about communicating with more confidence when you’re put on the spot.

If you're someone who wants to organize their thoughts faster and stop stressing about saying the “perfect” thing, this is a great option!

Celebrating one of life’s first mentors—the ones who taught us, encouraged us, and helped shape who we are today.

Happy Grandparents Day! 💛

REGISTER TODAY!

Leading by Example: My Journey and the People I Choose to Lead

Join us as we hear from Mylas Copeland, General Manager/Managing Partner of Green Toyota and this year's Chamber Chairman of the Board, at the September 23 RISE Lunch & Learn. Mylas will walk us through his career path, from his early days to leading one of the region's top automotive dealerships, and the mindset that got him there.

You'll come away with an understanding of how Mylas hires, develops, and promotes talent: the traits, work ethic, and leadership qualities he looks for. Whether you're aiming to grow your own career or build a stronger team, this is one worth carving out time for.

Register at https://business.gscc.org/events/details/rise-lunch-learn-leading-by-example-my-journey-and-the-people-i-choose-to-lead-27106

We got an early start on Wednesday at RISE & Shine ☀

Thank you to Springfield Clinic for hosting us and to their CEO Rebecca Birenbaum for her warm presence and inspiring talk.

🎉Congrats to our give-away winners!

Meet the people who help bring RISE to life! ⭐ Get to know the faces behind the mission and what inspires them personally and professionally.

Meet our RISE Events Chair, Mary!

Q: How did you first get involved with RISE?
A: After starting a small business, I became involved with the Chamber and saw an email about RISE’s Community Service Subcommittee. It seemed like a worthwhile opportunity, so I signed up and gradually became involved in more projects. I’m so grateful I did!

Q: What advice would you give someone thinking about getting more involved?
A: Just show up when and where you can! Building a supportive network is so important. If you do not want to attend alone, bring a buddy—or better yet, bring a few!

Q: Why do you think RISE is important for young professionals in our community?
A: A strong personal network can be incredibly valuable when you encounter challenges professionally or personally. RISE connects you with people across different industries who may have the experience, advice or answers you need someday.

Q: What is one skill you’ve developed or strengthened through RISE?
A: Feeling more comfortable at networking events! I used to find a corner and hope there was a cat to play with—and honestly, I still do. But serving in a leadership role has pushed me to start conversations, introduce myself first and step outside my comfort zone. It has helped me strengthen my communication skills and confidence.

Q: What are you most excited about for the future of RISE?
A: I’m excited to see our programming continue to grow. We’ve offered so many exceptional events this year, including Lunch & Learns, the Leadership Conference and RISE & Shines. It will be fun to see how they continue to develop. In other words…stay tuned! 😊

RISE & Shine is tomorrow! ☀️

Join us at the Springfield Clinic Allen Building for coffee, networking and a conversation with Springfield Clinic CEO Rebecca Birenbaum.

📅 Wednesday, August 26
⏰ 7:30–8:45 a.m.
📍 1130 S. 6th St.

View the event here: https://business.gscc.org/events/details/rise-shine-at-springfield-clinic-27103

We hope to see you there!

REGISTER TODAY!
*Early Bird Price of $25 Available Through Aug 31!*

Leading by Example: My Journey and the People I Choose to Lead

Meet Mylas Copeland, General Manager/Managing Partner of Green Toyota Volkswagen & Audi, at the September 23 RISE Lunch & Learn. Mylas will share his journey from the early days of his career to running one of the region's top automotive dealerships and the mentality that got him there.

You'll walk away with insight into how Mylas hires, develops, and promotes talent: the character traits, work ethic, and leadership qualities he watches for. If you're looking to grow your own career or build a stronger team, this is one you don't want to miss.

Register at https://business.gscc.org/events/details/rise-lunch-learn-leading-by-example-my-journey-and-the-people-i-choose-to-lead-27106

🎧 Podcast Recommendation 🎧 Looking for something local to add to your podcast rotation? Check out The Table from Peerless Cleaning & Restoration Services

Hosts Wike Brad and Chris Hembrough sit down with business and community leaders across Central Illinois to talk leadership, lessons learned, community involvement, and plenty more.

And for a little RISE connection, be sure to listen to Episode #83 with Bailey Woolsey and Nick Gentile, where they talk about the story behind RISE Springfield and how it got started.🎙️