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Join us for the second annual Thinkathon! Our first was so well received we're bringing it back to start off the year engaging with our community and giving you a great opportunity to discuss and network.

This year's Thinkathon will take place at WeWork, which has generously offered their co-working space near Grant Park for the event. Registration is open at http://netimpactchicago.org/event-2143035

The premise is simple: we want to foster good conversation and engage you in shaping the future of the NIC chapter. Our scope is broad – we're a group of professionals that seek to leverage business as a force for positive social and environmental impact. With your help, we want to have an open discussion about how we build a meaningful and connected community in Chicago that aligns with this purpose. And of course, there will be plenty of time to network with like-minded Chicago professionals.

To help us engage around key impact-related issues, we're inviting leaders and change makers in the social impact and environmental sustainability movements to facilitate breakout sessions. So far, we are pleased to have two great facilitators on board: Marc Lane, a prolific author recognized for his expertise in advocacy investing and social entrepreneurship, as well as Michael Slaby, an expert and leader focused on innovation, technology, and development. We are lining up more facilitators and we'll let you know more about the evolving topics for discussion – keep checking the event webpage, and look out for emails from us!

Beer and light refreshments will be served. (This event is 21+ only.)

TENTATIVE AGENDA
6:30-7:00pm Networking reception
7:00-7:45pm Breakout discussion groups
7:45-8:30pm Collective brainstorming session and networking

PARTNERS
We are honored that Heshima Kenya will be present at the Thinkathon to share their story. This Chicago-grown non-profit organization specializes in identifying and protecting unaccompanied and separated refugee children and youth living in Kenya, especially girls, young women and their children. Their shelter, education and community outreach services, coupled with local resources and the refugee community, empower this population to live healthy lives. By providing resources for long-term support, these girls and young women become catalysts for strengthening networks and creating sustainable change within the local and global communities. Part of their efforts include a fast-growing social enterprise called The Maisha Collective, which produces beautiful scarves and accessories that will be available for sale at the Thinkathon.