Socks & Shampoo Drive
2018-11-05 18:00 - 2018-12-14 18:00 UTC | Catalyst Ranch, 656 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL, 60661, United States
Catalyst Ranch welcomes all guests and neighbors to bring in items to donate to Sarah’s Circle during our Socks & Shampoo Drive.

What: Socks & Shampoo Drive, a seasonal collection of goods for donation
Where: Catalyst Ranch
When: Monday, November 5 through Friday, December 14
Benefiting: Sarah’s Circle, a Chicago non-profit serving women who are homeless or in need of a safe space.
We’re asking for:

NEW, cold-weather socks

Travel-size shampoo

We’ll welcome other greatly-needed items such as other warm clothes in size XL and above; and travel-size conditioner, deodorant and toothpaste. **A complete list of items sought can be found here.

Sarah’s Circle is a Chicago organization that has been serving women who are homeless or in need of a safe space. Located in Chicago’s Uptown Community, Sarah’s Circle has provided support for thousands of women since 1979. With temperatures dropping, their supply needs are more specific.
Sarah’s Circle provides an updated list of all items currently needed here. Though Catalyst Ranch is asking for specifically New, cold-weather socks and Travel-size shampoo, we will gladly accept any of these other listed items. Be aware of their stipulation:
*Because of limited storage space we only accept clothing in good condition and that is appropriate for the current season. Donated clothing should be clean and folded when delivered. Larger clothing sizes (XL, XXL, 3XL) are especially needed. We are currently only accepting clothing sizes 12+ and sensible shoes sizes 8+ at this time. Men’s clothing is also accepted.

Please consider visiting Catalyst Ranch for any of the events found here: Workshops and Special Events Open to the Public, and bring any Socks, Shampoo and other items to our collection box. We’ll bring all Socks & Shampoo Drive donations to Sarah’s Circle‘s Daytime Support Center at 4838 N. Sheridan Rd in the Uptown neighborhood after December 14.

Vela Facilitating: Ignite Your Organization's Voice - Learn to Build a Story!
2018-11-07 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Vela Facilitating hosts a FREE one-night workshop to guide organizations in focusing their voice and creating a dynamic narrative for the company: Ignite Your Organization’s Voice – Learn to Build a Story!
Ignite Your Organization’s Voice – Learn to Build a Story!

A good story can do wonders for an organization: from use in development to social media engagement. More than that, it can also unite team members behind a common goal and strengthen the work environment.
Join us for a vibrant workshop designed to awaken your creative energy at work. Our arts-based practice will lead you through interactive exercises in writing and oral storytelling to identify an evocative narrative for your organization. Practice your listening skills and learn how to capture attention in this introductory workshop.

Learn how arts-based leadership can revive your team
Identify story structures that can keep your audience engaged
Take away a fresh perspective on your tried and true stories of impact
Train yourself to look for new stories as they happen

Vela Facilitating‘s Stephanie Chavara leads this FREE, one-night workshop.

Click here to see all Public Event offerings at Catalyst Ranch!

Andrew Yang for President 2020 Humanity First Tour Chicago Rally
2018-11-09 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Catalyst Ranch welcomes Andrew Yang for President 2020 Humanity First Tour Chicago

2020 Democratic Presidential Candidate Andrew Yang is coming to Chicago!

One of the most exciting candidates in the 2020 US Presidential Election, Andrew Yang (D) is looking to bring his experience as a successful tech entrepreneur and innovator to the White House.
In 2011 he founded Venture for America, and spent the last 6 years helping to create more than 2,500 jobs in cities like Cleveland, Detroit, and Pittsburgh.
Andrew realized artificial intelligence threatens one-third of all jobs, and that we need a vision for a radically different future. In The War on Normal People (April 2018), he explains this crisis, arguing for The Freedom Dividend, $1,000 a month for every American adult, a central pillar of his platform.
Join hundreds of other members of the Chicago community as Andrew makes his Humanity First tour around the country!
You can learn more about Andrew’s platform here, and check out his features in the New York Times, Huffington Post, and CNBC – or podcasts with Ezra Klein and Sam Harris.
We hope to see you there!

Doors open at 6pm. Event goes from 6:30-8pm. Food and beverages will be served.

Andrew Yang for President 2020 Humanity First Tour Chicago is open to the public. See all of Catalyst Ranch’s Public Events here!

Personal Branding Workshop from Peagram Consulting
2018-11-17 09:30 - 15:30 UTC
On Saturday, November 17, Catalyst Ranch hosts Peagram Consulting as they offer TWO sessions of their Personal Branding Workshop.
Select a time that works for you: The 2.5 hour sessions start at 9:30am and 1pm.

Do you struggle with sharing your message with others, your network, or in an interview? Are you searching for clarity on explaining your job, work, and experience. We have the perfect training for you!
Come join us as we work with you on developing your personal brand.
We will work with you on finding your interests, skills, abilities, and build upon your knowledge to build your personal or professional brand. This will help you with marketing yourself, finding a new job, building your tribe, becoming a social influencer, or growing your company. Personal branding is key to building a strong network and gives people a clear snapshot of who you are as a person. Customers and potential hiring managers don’t just look at what you offer, but also whether or not they like you. We want to help you build that connection and get clarity on who you are as a professional.

The session will include:

Mini-workbooks
Guided journal prompts
Activities to build your brand
Templated personal branding blurbs
Questions to dig deeper and explore how to write your brand
Guided exercises to put it all together and walk away with your customized personal brand
Networking
Snacks

Who would benefit?

If you are transitioning into a new job
If you are looking for work opportunities
If you are growing your business
If you are an entrepreneur
If you have a small business

Peagram Consulting: Organizer of Personal Branding

Peagram Consulting was founded to provide alternative training options to the typical disengaging presentation format. Peagram Consultants do not simply present content, they innovate solutions by asking questions and provoking new thoughts to solve problems. Dr. Peagram loves bringing activities, practical skills, and innovative concepts to the table to watch individuals find their passion and grow as professionals. Dr. Peagram’s “Why?” is simple: she loves training and pushing professionals to think outside the box.

Click here to return to our slate of events open to the public!

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in November
2018-11-27 18:00 - 22:00 UTC
Ignite Chicago is a heavy dose of TryptoFANTASTIC.
And this evening’s menu will NOT put you to sleep!

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in November is a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have a burning idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd.

Did you know that attending this evening’s Ignite Chicago sets you up to perfectly end your #GIVINGTUESDAY? All proceeds from Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in November–and every month–go toward funding the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization CoderDojoChi, which teaches web, game and app development to youth ages 7 to 17. So when you buy your ticket to expand your mind at Ignite Chicago, you effectively contribute to expanding the minds of young people in our beloved city!

Speaking at Ignite is an unforgettable experience. You step up to the mic. Your palms sweat. You can hear the thump of your blood rushing. Your voice cracks for an instant and then you launch into a rant for 300 straight seconds, wearing your passion on your sleeve, barely pausing to breathe. The crowd goes wild.
Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in November is open to everyone. All talks are 5 minutes (20 slides x 15 seconds/slide).

There is no theme for Ignite. You can talk about virtually anything as long as you can show us your passion for it. What’s the thing you most geek out about? What’s the topic of conversation that quickens your pulse and sets your toe a-tappin’? That is what we want to hear you speak about.
All speakers get equal time and equal billing. All talks are 5 minutes. You create 20 slides, and we set them up to auto-advance every 15 seconds.
Want to speak?
The audience at Ignite is generous and patient. They know the Ignite format is difficult, and they realize you might be an absolute beginner at public speaking. Don’t worry – they’ve got your back. You’re giving them your passion and your vulnerability, and they love you for that. You won’t find a more appreciative audience at any other event.
Some people think Ignite is about self-help talks. It isn’t. Nobody wants to hear a preachy pep talk. We’re already “good enough and smart enough,” so let’s keep this about you and your passionate ideas.
Finally, we’re serious about the no pitching thing. We know that sometimes a speaker must mention their profession in order to give their talk context, which is totally fine. But Ignite is not the place to tout your organization or to troll for clients.
Click the logo for tickets.

Find out more about the maestro behind both Ignite Chicago and CoderDojoChi, Ali Krabassi, by clicking here!

KEWN Holiday Event with Professor Janice Eberly
2018-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
KEWN Holiday Event with Professor Janice Eberly: Kellogg Exectuive Women’s Network hosts a holiday networking event and presentation.

“Why Worry? The Tenets of US Economic Policy in a Strong Economy.”
How will the composition of Congress post mid-term elections impact economic policy?
What challenges will women in public leadership face?
Unemployment is at historic lows, and economic growth seems back on track. So, why is current US policy so controversial?
Please join KEWN members and guests for a special holiday gathering at Catalyst Ranch, a unique, woman-owned event venue in the West Loop, for a special presentation by Janice Eberly, the James R. and Helen D. Russell Professor of Finance and former Chair of the Finance Department.

Professor Eberly, is a former Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, confirmed by the US Senate. She recently spoke at the Federal Reserve’s annual policy conference in Jackson Hole, and is well positioned to address both current issues in economic policy such as taxes, tariffs, and rising interest rates, and the opportunities and challenges women face in these public leadership positions.
This will be an opportunity to connect with both old and new friends and share the joy and spirit of the season with a glass of wine and appetizers, and enjoy this special presentation by Janice Eberly. We hope you will join us!

Beyond The Vision Board Workshop
2019-01-10 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Beyond The Vision Board Workshop: Eva M. Kennedy of 1EVALUTION instructs how to take your vision board and goals and begin acting on them.

Have you attended vision board parties but failed to take actionable steps to make your vision a reality?
Beyond The Vision Board Workshop is designed to help you clarify the vision you hold in your heart and establish goals to achieve what you desire. This approach provides the opportunity and platform to focus on what is most important to you.
This workshop is for you if you’re looking to:

Clarify your vision
Establish goals to achieve your vision
Know where to focus and concentrate your efforts
Measure achievements along the way
Accept and own your vision

If you are ready to take action and start the New Year with a plan to achieve your vision, then join me for this powerful workshop.
Register today, be proactive, take actionable steps and unleash the vision within you!

1EVALUTION, Business and Life Coach
Beyond The Vision Board Workshop is facilitated by the creator, Eva M. Kennedy, Certified Life Coach, Founder of 1Evalution, Business, and Life Coach. 1Evlaution is a boutique coaching provider committed to helping their clients achieve personal and professional fulfillment. With a focus on women in life transitions such as working to entrepreneurship, career advancement, empty nesting, retirement and a need for personal connection. We help our clients create clarity around the uncertainty of change so that they can live a fulfilling and purposeful life.

First Time Home Buyers FREE Seminar
2019-01-22 18:00 - 19:00 UTC
First Time Home Buyers FREE Seminar
So you are done renting…now what?! What are the first steps to buying a home? From mortgage approval to showings to the home inspection to the closing process, Heather Bragg and her mortgage team will explain the home-buying process in this interactive seminar. Bring your questions and be ready to walk away informed and empowered!
Presenters:

Heather Bragg (Realtor, John Greene Realtor)
Victoria Vann (Illinois Housing Development Authority)
Jennifer Zuithoff (Mortgage broker)

Heather Bragg is a seasoned broker, education specialist, published author, Huffington Post contributor, triathlete, marathoner and accomplished equestrian. Heather merged her desire to help others, honed after 19 years of serving her community as a special education teacher, with her sense of entrepreneurship by transitioning her career to real estate several years ago. She used the innate ambitious personality – that served her well in earlier endeavors – to launch and grow her real estate business. Heather is a self-proclaimed “mastery addict” and continuously strives to serve her clients with effectiveness, efficiency, positivity and thorough communication. In her free time, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons and one Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Victoria Vann has been Civil Servant and leader for nearly two decades. Having worked within the higher education, governmental and public sectors in a variety of roles for a significant portion of her professional career. Victoria is determined to see that people from all backgrounds and communities are provided equitable education, access to information and fair housing. Victoria is a licensed Real Estate Broker who has been converting renters into homeowners for over 10 years. Victoria is the Creative Founder of the Eugene Baker-Joy Vann Scholarship Foundation and she holds a B.A. in Industrial Organization Psychology from DePaul University, Project Management Certification for Loyola University Executive Business administration program and is currently pursuing her Masters in Communications at Northwestern University.

With more than 10 years of experience as a residential mortgage loan officer, Jennifer Zuithoff has a heart for helping her clients navigate the mortgage process. She has experience working with clients in all stages of life, from first time home-buyers to investors, to families moving into bigger homes, and empty-nesters who are downsizing. Her company offers the widest variety of loan programs: down payment assistance giving buyers up to $10k in funds to close; loans for people who are one day out of a bankruptcy, short sale or foreclosure; jumbo loans; programs specific to physicians; investment loans; and more. Jennifer draws joy from simplifying the mortgage process for her clients so that they feel informed and comfortable with each step until the day of the closing.

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in January MOVED TO FEB 5
2019-02-05 18:00 - 21:00 UTC
ATTENTION: January’s Ignite has been postponed 1 week due to extreme cold weather.
Please join us Tuesday Feb 5 at 6pm!

Trouble with your metaphorical pilot light in these January temps?
Ignite Chicago lights your fire.

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in January is a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have a burning idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd.

Attending this evening’s Ignite Chicago does good for the city and for your neighbors. All proceeds from Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in January–and every month–go toward funding the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization CoderDojoChi, which teaches web, game and app development to youth ages 7 to 17. So when you buy your ticket to expand your mind at Ignite Chicago, you effectively contribute to expanding the minds of young people in our beloved city!

Speaking at Ignite is an unforgettable experience. You step up to the mic. Your palms sweat. You can hear the thump of your blood rushing. Your voice cracks for an instant and then you launch into a rant for 300 straight seconds, wearing your passion on your sleeve, barely pausing to breathe. The crowd goes wild.
Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in January is open to everyone. All talks are 5 minutes (20 slides x 15 seconds/slide).

There is no theme for Ignite. You can talk about virtually anything as long as you can show us your passion for it. What’s the thing you most geek out about? What’s the topic of conversation that quickens your pulse and sets your toe a-tappin’? That is what we want to hear you speak about.
All speakers get equal time and equal billing. All talks are 5 minutes. You create 20 slides, and we set them up to auto-advance every 15 seconds.
Want to speak?
The audience at Ignite is generous and patient. They know the Ignite format is difficult, and they realize you might be an absolute beginner at public speaking. Don’t worry – they’ve got your back. You’re giving them your passion and your vulnerability, and they love you for that. You won’t find a more appreciative audience at any other event.
Some people think Ignite is about self-help talks. It isn’t. Nobody wants to hear a preachy pep talk. We’re already “good enough and smart enough,” so let’s keep this about you and your passionate ideas.
Finally, we’re serious about the no pitching thing. We know that sometimes a speaker must mention their profession in order to give their talk context, which is totally fine. But Ignite is not the place to tout your organization or to troll for clients.
Click the logo for tickets.

Find out more about the maestro behind both Ignite Chicago and CoderDojoChi, Ali Karbassi, by clicking here!

Home Buying Info Session and Dinner
2019-02-12 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Home Buying Info Session and Dinner

Thinking of becoming a home-owner or investor in 2019? Wondering where to start? Join us for dinner and discussion!

There are many steps in the process of becoming a home-owner; with the right guidance, this journey should be fun, empowering and easy to understand. Join realtor Heather Bragg and her finance team to learn the ins-and-outs of looking for a home, submitting an offer, arranging financing, handling the inspection, understanding an appraisal and other home-ownership details. Dinner will be served. This is a free event.

Presenters:

Heather Bragg (Realtor, John Greene Realtor)
Victoria Vann (Illinois Housing Development Authority)
Jennifer Zuithoff (Mortgage broker)

About the Presenters

Heather Bragg is a seasoned broker, education specialist, published author, Huffington Post contributor, triathlete, marathoner and accomplished equestrian. Heather merged her desire to help others, honed after 19 years of serving her community as a special education teacher, with her sense of entrepreneurship by transitioning her career to real estate several years ago. She used the innate ambitious personality – that served her well in earlier endeavors – to launch and grow her real estate business. Heather is a self-proclaimed “mastery addict” and continuously strives to serve her clients with effectiveness, efficiency, positivity and thorough communication. In her free time, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons and one Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Victoria Vann has been Civil Servant and leader for nearly two decades. Having worked within the higher education, governmental and public sectors in a variety of roles for a significant portion of her professional career. Victoria is determined to see that people from all backgrounds and communities are provided equitable education, access to information and fair housing. Victoria is a licensed Real Estate Broker who has been converting renters into homeowners for over 10 years. Victoria is the Creative Founder of the Eugene Baker-Joy Vann Scholarship Foundation and she holds a B.A. in Industrial Organization Psychology from DePaul University, Project Management Certification for Loyola University Executive Business administration program and is currently pursuing her Masters in Communications at Northwestern University.

With more than 10 years of experience as a residential mortgage loan officer, Jennifer Zuithoff has a heart for helping her clients navigate the mortgage process. She has experience working with clients in all stages of life, from first time home-buyers to investors, to families moving into bigger homes, and empty-nesters who are downsizing. Her company offers the widest variety of loan programs: down payment assistance giving buyers up to $10k in funds to close; loans for people who are one day out of a bankruptcy, short sale or foreclosure; jumbo loans; programs specific to physicians; investment loans; and more. Jennifer draws joy from simplifying the mortgage process for her clients so that they feel informed and comfortable with each step until the day of the closing.

Click here to see more upcoming events at Catalyst Ranch!

improve it! 2019 Q1 Business Improv Workshop
2019-02-12 18:00 - 20:30 UTC
Catalyst Ranch welcomes back this 2018 Chicago Innovation Award nominee with the improve it! 2019 Q1 Business Improv Workshop!

Are you a business professional who would like to learn creative techniques to think more quickly on your feet during a meeting or at a presentation? Are you a leader or manager looking to enhance collaboration across your team? Are you the type of person who is always trying to be the best version of yourself?
Most importantly, are you the kind of person who likes…FUN?!?
Then, say no more! Come join improve it! in their 2019 Q1 Business Improv Workshop, and you’ll learn the healing powers of improvisation for the workplace.
Our energetic and unique workshop will highlight the impact that improvisational techniques can have on your communication skills, and overall professional presentational presence! (Try saying that five times fast.)
Over the course of two hours, you will participate in an interactive lecture and series of improvisation-based exercises led by professional improvisers. By the end of the workshop we guarantee you will have learned and practiced how to:

Communicate ideas clearly to your peers
Trust your first instinct rather than overthink
Receive and respond to feedback more easily
Tune into your own brand of spontaneity!

The workshop will be led by improve it!’s founder, Erin Diehl, and three of improve it!’s professional improvisers — all who have trained and performed at top theaters in Chicago and around the United States. The workshop will provide you with an intimate, and hands-on experience to show you exactly what we do.
What do we do? We’re glad you asked…
improve it! LLC is a Chicago-based company that provides high-energy, laughter-filled corporate events & team building workshops that incorporate improvisation teams & techniques, while donating a portion of proceeds to charity. To learn more about improve it! visit www.improveitchicago.com.
Sound good to you? Great! We’ll see you there.
Additional Details for improve it! 2019 Q1 Business Improv Workshop:
Date and Time: February 12. Registration opens at 6:00 p.m. and the workshop will begin promptly at 6:15 p.m.
Contact the organizer: Please contact Erin Diehl, founder of improve it! with any questions at info@improveitchicago.com.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo below!

LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois: Inclusion in the Workplace
2019-02-20 17:30 - 20:00 UTC
Join the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois for a panel discussion: Inclusion in the Workplace. Chamber members will share emerging topics in the diversity & inclusion space.

Moderator: Tatyana Moaton, Howard Brown
Presenters and Topics:

Tiffany Hudson, Nova Collective – Identity as a framework for your DEI practice
​David Stone, inQuest Consulting –D&I in 2019: Creative Interventions in Trying Times
Bernadette Smith, Equality Institute – Misgendering Matters & ID Issues
Damon L. Williams, Jr., Northwestern University

Each presenter will share a 10-minute presentation and then participate in a collective Q&A. Join us for great conversation, networking, and light refreshments.

Catalyst Ranch has been proud to host previous networking and panel events for the LGBTCC of Illinois. The photos from past engagements below are courtesy of Starbelly Studios Photography.

Camp Boundless All-Day Urban Camp 2019!
2019-02-23 09:00 - 17:00 UTC
Camp Boundless takes over Catalyst Ranch for a second go-around of its flagship Camp Boundless All-Day Urban Camp!
PACK YOUR BAGS FOR CAMP BOUNDLESS!
Are you more than ready for a break from the winter doldrums?

Then Camp Boundless All-Day Urban Camp is just the ticket to a magical getaway in the cheerful urban forest of Catalyst Ranch in the West Loop in Chicago! We’ll stow away the digital devices into their little sleeping bags and let them take a nice day-long nap while we frolic, play games, learn some new highly unnecessary skills and make new bosom buddies.

CAMP BOUNDLESS ALL-DAY URBAN CAMP IS UNLIKE ANY EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD SINCE YOU WERE A KID!
Arrive Saturday morning ready for action. We’ll start with some calisthenics (it’s camp, it’s required!) to get warmed up, play a get to know you game and then send everyone to Round 1 of Play Sessions where you’ll get to choose from an assortment of activities:

Movement
Scientific
Writing
Crafting
Musical
Imaginary
Culinary

Then it’s time for an All-Camp Game to get the blood flowing, followed by a delicious lunch and some free time. The afternoon is a couple more rounds of Play Sessions with a break for snacks in between, and then it’s time to say farewell to your new friends.
For a peek at the Unwind & Unschedule, take a looky here: https://www.campboundless.com/playcamp2019schedule
WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Full Day of Activities with highly skilled instructors
All Supplies needed for activities
Breakfast, Lunch, Beverages & Snacks

For more information check out www.campboundless.com.

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in February
2019-02-26 18:00 - 21:00 UTC
Punxsutawney Phil ain’t the only one with a forecast…
Ignite Chicago predicts an early thaw..

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in February is a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have a burning idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd.

Attending this evening’s Ignite Chicago does good for the city and for your neighbors. All proceeds from Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in February go toward funding the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization CoderDojoChi, which teaches web, game and app development to youth ages 7 to 17. So when you buy your ticket to expand your mind at Ignite Chicago, you effectively contribute to expanding the minds of young people in our beloved city!

Speaking at Ignite is an unforgettable experience. You step up to the mic. Your palms sweat. You can hear the thump of your blood rushing. Your voice cracks for an instant and then you launch into a rant for 300 straight seconds, wearing your passion on your sleeve, barely pausing to breathe. The crowd goes wild.
Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in February is open to everyone. All talks are 5 minutes (20 slides x 15 seconds/slide).

There is no theme for Ignite. You can talk about virtually anything as long as you can show us your passion for it. What’s the thing you most geek out about? What’s the topic of conversation that quickens your pulse and sets your toe a-tappin’? That is what we want to hear you speak about.
All speakers get equal time and equal billing. All talks are 5 minutes. You create 20 slides, and we set them up to auto-advance every 15 seconds.
Want to speak?
The audience at Ignite is generous and patient. They know the Ignite format is difficult, and they realize you might be an absolute beginner at public speaking. Don’t worry – they’ve got your back. You’re giving them your passion and your vulnerability, and they love you for that. You won’t find a more appreciative audience at any other event.
Some people think Ignite is about self-help talks. It isn’t. Nobody wants to hear a preachy pep talk. We’re already “good enough and smart enough,” so let’s keep this about you and your passionate ideas.
Finally, we’re serious about the no pitching thing. We know that sometimes a speaker must mention their profession in order to give their talk context, which is totally fine. But Ignite is not the place to tout your organization or to troll for clients.
Click the logo for tickets.

Find out more about the maestro behind both Ignite Chicago and CoderDojoChi, Ali Karbassi, by clicking here!

CHI thee WED's The Wedding March: OPEN HOUSE
2019-03-10 12:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago)
CHI thee WED’s The Wedding March is the Springtime event all engaged couples and wedding vendors are waiting for: This OPEN HOUSE wedding showcase opens the doors to ten West Loop venues, each of which will feature Wedding Professionals from incredible vendors.

March into wedding planning with CHI thee WED to tour several Wedding Venues (and rehearsal dinner locations!) in the West Loop of Chicago! Each venue will be full of Wedding Pro’s showcasing their best work and eager to give you wedding planning advice!
Join us on March 10th, 2019 from 12p-6p for The Wedding March OPEN HOUSE. We will be showcasing not one, but TWO brand new venues that have never before been seen! Be the first couples to tour these spaces and see what the buzz is all about!
Venues Include:

Bridge 410

Catalyst Ranch

Kitchen Chicago

Fulton Market Kitchen

Untitled Supper Club

Galleria Marchetti

LOW RES

National Hellenic Museum

AND DEBUTING (they are SO new you will just have to come visit to see them!):

Fairlie

The City Hall

More venues to be announced soon!

This is an open house style wedding showcase. Come and go as you please and start at whichever venue you want! Light bites and cocktails will be provided – plus transportation from Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.will be shuttling guests between venues.
Tickets: $10 per person / $20 per couple
Presented by CHI thee WED and Urban Allure Events

Click here to see more opportunities to visit Catalyst Ranch!

FREE March Home Buying Info Session and Dinner
2019-03-12 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
Home Buying Info Session and Dinner

Thinking of becoming a home-owner or investor in 2019? Wondering where to start? Join us for dinner and discussion!

There are many steps in the process of becoming a home-owner; with the right guidance, this journey should be fun, empowering and easy to understand. Join realtor Heather Bragg and her finance team to learn the ins-and-outs of looking for a home, submitting an offer, arranging financing, handling the inspection, understanding an appraisal and other home-ownership details. Dinner will be served.
This is a free event.

Heather Bragg is a seasoned broker, education specialist, published author, Huffington Post contributor, triathlete, marathoner and accomplished equestrian. Heather merged her desire to help others, honed after 19 years of serving her community as a special education teacher, with her sense of entrepreneurship by transitioning her career to real estate several years ago. She used the innate ambitious personality – that served her well in earlier endeavors – to launch and grow her real estate business. Heather is a self-proclaimed “mastery addict” and continuously strives to serve her clients with effectiveness, efficiency, positivity and thorough communication. In her free time, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons and one Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Click here to see more upcoming events at Catalyst Ranch!

OfficeNinjas Admingling: Expanding Your Role
2019-03-19 18:00 - 20:30 UTC
What’s Admingling?
Networking for Admins and Workplace Operators in Chicago, IL
Powered by collective intelligence, OfficeNinjas’ Admingling events provide admin pros and workplace operators with the time, space, and inspiration to grow their networks and level up their careers. Interesting venues, unexpected discussion topics, and delicious food and drinks are all part of Admingling’s secret sauce, but Ninjas are the key ingredient.
More structured than a happy hour but more social than a workshop, an Admingling event harnesses the power of our community’s collective intelligence. Every after-work event is unique; we work with Ninjas in each host city to pick a space that’s both comfortable and inspiring. Everything from the discussion topics to the cocktails are chosen with local perspective. Attendees share ideas, trade tips, and walk away with actionable solutions and a stack of new professional contacts.

This Quarter’s Theme: Expanding Your Role
Ninjas must identify what they need to stay relevant — and advocate for it.
Want to see Darwin’s theory in action? Keep an eye on your company’s org chart. The message is simple: adapt, evolve, and succeed. As the workplace changes, a Ninja must continually evaluate their role, skill set, and the unique value they bring to the table.
You sense that change is on the horizon — maybe you’re already seeing it play out at your company. In this month’s Admingling event, we’ll discuss how Ninjas can stay ahead of the curve and gain the skills needed to remain competitive and in-demand.

Enjoy an evening of drinks, tasty bites courtesy of City Barbecue, and what promises to be a lively discussion!

Are you an administrative professional?! Join OfficeNinjas for their upcoming Admingling event on March 19. For more information and to register, see https://officeninjas.com/admingling-in-chicago/.

OfficeNinjas® recognizes admins and workplace operators for the curious, engaged, forward-thinking professionals they are. We exist to provide vital educational content, vendor vetting, networking events, and industry insights to ensure they have every opportunity to lead a valued and fulfilling professional life.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo above!

Technology for Social Good Panel
2019-03-21 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
On March 21st, Net Impact Chicago (NIC) is partnering up with Catalyst Ranch to host a Technology for Social Good panel discussion that will explore how various people in non-profits and for-profit organizations work to leverage technology in order to increase social good for communities and society from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
Panelists that work in non-profit, consulting, and for-profit will share their wide ranging perspectives and experiences and answer any questions the audience may have.
Speakers include:
Danny Scott (Cara) – Since 2012, Danny has worked closely with local non-Profit Cara Chicago, an organization dedicated to shifting the trajectory of joblessness (and many of the issues surrounding it) in Chicago. Both in his role as the Associate President and as a broader advocate of Cara, Danny has been able to bring additional insight, perspective, and resources to Cara, most recently fostering a connection between his employer, Slalom, directly to the work and mission Cara looks to accomplish.
Cameron Croft (All A-Board Alliance and asenda) – Cameron Croft is an active social entrepreneur who believes technology is a powerful force for good. He is the founder of asenda.org and president of the All A-Board Alliance, where he promotes nonprofit service as essential to developing future leaders. A natural connector and lifelong learner, Croft’s experience in engineering, finance, and education has helped companies like Eventbrite, SoFi, Shiftgig and Youtopia launch and expand into new markets.
Caleb Catalano (Slalom Consulting and University of Chicago’s Urban Education Institute) – Caleb is a passionate analytics thought leader focused on bringing new technology to market in creative and interesting ways. He continues to look for opportunities to partner with non-profit and educational entities to help increase analytics capability and capacity. He is currently a Solution Architect in Slalom Consulting’s Data & Analytics Practice.
Lizzy Engele (LinkedIn) – Lizzy is an activist, creative, and life-long learner in the corporate and social impact communities. She is the co-founder and executive director of MakerGirl, a 501c3 that has educated over 3,000 girls in STEM, and she uses her nonprofit knowledge at LinkedIn as a Nonprofit Account Executive. She is a member of Park Community Church where she serves in the children’s ministry, and she also enjoys staying active and biking. Her passion for technology stems from how she’s witnessed its capability to bring people together for economic opportunity as well as building and supporting visionary companies.
The panel will be moderated by Ben Hwang, a member of the Net Impact Chicago Leadership Team.
Food and drinks will be provided.
Reach out to info@netimpactchicago.org if you have any additional questions.

Net Impact is an international community of more than 30,000 changemakers who are using our jobs to tackle the world’s toughest problems. We put our business skills to work for good in every sector, showing the world that it’s possible to make a net impact that benefits not just the bottom line, but people and planet too.

For more opportunities to visit Catalyst Ranch, click here to see our upcoming Public Events!

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in March
2019-03-26 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Folks born on March 26 are PASSIONATE, ENERGETIC, ARIES…ES. Arieses. No, Aries. Just Aries.
Ignite Chicago flies again on March 26, and they’re definitely a *FIRE* sign!

Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in March is a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have a burning idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd.

Attending this evening’s Ignite Chicago does good for the city and for your neighbors. All proceeds from Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in March go toward funding the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization CoderDojoChi, which teaches web, game and app development to youth ages 7 to 17. So when you buy your ticket to expand your mind at Ignite Chicago, you effectively contribute to expanding the minds of young people in our beloved city!

Speaking at Ignite is an unforgettable experience. You step up to the mic. Your palms sweat. You can hear the thump of your blood rushing. Your voice cracks for an instant and then you launch into a rant for 300 straight seconds, wearing your passion on your sleeve, barely pausing to breathe. The crowd goes wild.
Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in March is open to everyone. All talks are 5 minutes (20 slides x 15 seconds/slide).

There is no theme for Ignite. You can talk about virtually anything as long as you can show us your passion for it. What’s the thing you most geek out about? What’s the topic of conversation that quickens your pulse and sets your toe a-tappin’? That is what we want to hear you speak about.
All speakers get equal time and equal billing. All talks are 5 minutes. You create 20 slides, and we set them up to auto-advance every 15 seconds.
Want to speak?
The audience at Ignite is generous and patient. They know the Ignite format is difficult, and they realize you might be an absolute beginner at public speaking. Don’t worry – they’ve got your back. You’re giving them your passion and your vulnerability, and they love you for that. You won’t find a more appreciative audience at any other event.
Some people think Ignite is about self-help talks. It isn’t. Nobody wants to hear a preachy pep talk. We’re already “good enough and smart enough,” so let’s keep this about you and your passionate ideas.
Finally, we’re serious about the no pitching thing. We know that sometimes a speaker must mention their profession in order to give their talk context, which is totally fine. But Ignite is not the place to tout your organization or to troll for clients.
Click the logo for tickets.

Find out more about the maestro behind both Ignite Chicago and CoderDojoChi, Ali Karbassi, by clicking here!

Women and Wealth: How to Preserve What You Treasure
2019-03-27 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago)
Catalyst Ranch is happy to welcome the women of the Kellogg Executive Women’s Network (KEWN) for their March seminar: Women and Wealth: How to Preserve What You Treasure.

In honor of Women’s History Month, KEWN wishes to recognize and honor the great strides that women have made in the past few decades. Women build businesses, lead nations, contribute to their communities and have a powerful voice in local and global issues. Representing more than half of the U.S. population, American women are better educated, paid more and live longer than ever before. As a result, they have become one of the world’s most powerful economic forces, not only in terms of what they spend, but also in terms of their increasing wealth.
Join KEWN for an Important Discussion on Women and Wealth: How to Preserve What You Treasure
At every stage in life, you are faced with financial challenges – investing in a home, contributing to a college fund, caring for family members and saving for retirement. Making the right financial decisions can be life-changing for you and your family. Managing wealth is about your life and the things you treasure most as well as the relationships, interests and goals that bring you joy. Putting all of these elements at the heart of your long-term wealth management strategy helps ensure that you achieve the personal goals and financial outcomes you envision. And there is no time like the present to identify goals and priorities and the financial strategies needed to achieve them.

Join us for an informative and interactive session led by Gwen Cohen, First Vice President, Wealth Adviser, Morgan Stanley, and Kellogg alumna, designed to help you identify and prioritize your goals at every life stage and then begin to build a personalized plan that helps maximize your probability of achieving the goals you have for yourself and those you treasure, however life unfolds.
We hope you can join us and bring your questions!

About our Guest Speaker
Gwen Cohen has dedicated her 30 year career to serving the financial needs of individuals, multi-generational families and small business owners in the Chicago area and throughout the country. Gwen was deeply influenced by the values of her great grandmother, Ida Satisfield, who strongly encouraged every person – especially women – to be financially confident and responsible in their financial decisions. With Ida as her inspiration, Gwen set out to follow a profession where she could educate her clients about important financial concepts and strategies, helping to make a significant and profound impact on the quality of their lives.
Her passion for helping her clients is equaled only by her dedication to family and community. A strong believer in “giving back,” Gwen currently services as a Board Chair of Roosevelt University’s College of Performing Arts, WTTW’s Advisory Council and the Goodman Theatre Spotlight Society Advisory. She is a former board member of the Chicago Foundation for Women, the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana and Camp CEO (Girl Scouts), as well as Morgan Stanley’s Diversity Council and the Kellogg Alumni Council. She enjoys volunteering her time with Taylor Street Farms, Breakthrough Ministries Gardening Team and Unity in Chicago’s Platform Team.
Gwen earned her undergraduate degree in Business from Tuskegee University and her M.B.A. from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. Gwen has received numerous distinctions and professional accolades from the Chicago Foundation for Women, the Department of the Army and Morgan Stanley. Most recently, she was recognized as a 2016 MAKER at Morgan Stanley, an award that honors game-changing women leaders within the firm and the industry. Throughout her career, Gwen has been profiled in a variety of media outlets, including the Chicago Sun-Times, N’Digo, Chicago Defender, Chicago Metro News, Black Enterprise, Ebony magazine and WTTW’s “Chicago Tonight”.

This event is for Kellogg women alumnae interested in connecting, staying in touch and sharing information that will help us grow, learn and support each other professionally and personally.

See all of Catalyst Ranch’s Public Events here!

CreativeMornings: Breakfast and a Talk, with Shilpa Alva
2019-03-29 08:30 - 10:00 (America/Chicago)
CreativeMornings: Breakfast and a Talk, with Shilpa Alva
March 29, 8:30am – 10:00am

CreativeMornings organizes stimulating talks over coffee and nosh, always for FREE and open to everyone. This month the Chicago chapter of this international breakfast lecture series for the creative community comes to Catalyst Ranch, giving the mic to Shilpa Alva, Founder and Executive Director of Surge for Water.

In 2008, CreativeMornings was born out of a desire for an ongoing, accessible event for New York’s creative community. The concept was simple: breakfast and a short talk one Friday morning a month. Every event would be free of charge and open to anyone.
Today, attendees gather in cities around the world to enjoy fresh coffee, friendly people, and an international array of breakfast foods. Volunteer hosts and their team members organize local chapters that not only celebrate a city’s creative talent, but also promote an open space to connect with like-minded individuals.
From design legends to hometown heroes, speakers are selected by each chapter based on a global theme. CreativeMornings‘ Chicago team is seven years strong and host at Catalyst Ranch for the second time with Shilpa Alva.
CreativeMornings remains free thanks to the support of local partners, generous venues, and longterm global partners.
Everyone is welcome.
Everyone is creative.
Just register beforehand to reserve your spot.
Click below to RSVP, beginning Monday March 25!

CreativeMornings March Theme: Water
It’s the main source of all life. The lifeblood element that makes up 60% of our bodies.
It’s the liquid that we don’t drink enough of, yet waste effortlessly.
It’s home to millions of species, mysteries, and undiscovered knowledge.
We know more about the stars in the sky than the depths of our oceans.
We can use it to save lives. If used foolishly, it can take lives.
We think there is an abundance, yet only one percent can be touched. If we don’t protect our waters, then what will happen to life?
About the Speaker
Shilpa Alva is the Founder and Executive Director of Surge for Water, a Chicago based nonprofit organization that has provided safe water and sanitation solutions to 1 million people in 11 countries. The spark that led Shilpa to the founding of Surge, started when she was just 7 years old, while visiting extended family in India. However, after graduating from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Chemical Engineering, she joined the Corporate world. From here, she enjoyed rapid early career success, earned her MBA, and continued up the Corporate ladder.
Eventually, Shilpa came to the hard realization that she was not living in true alignment with her purpose. This led to Surge’s eventual founding and to her leaving a successful career and secure lifestyle. This leap of faith has lead to great things, both through the joy she experiences in her daily purpose-driven life and through the communities who benefit from Surge’s work every single day. In addition to her passion for safe water and global development, Shilpa loves to travel to new countries, read, practice yoga, meditate, and dance offbeat.
Everyone is creative.
A creative life requires bravery and action, honesty and hard work. We are here to support you, celebrate with you, and encourage you to make the things you love.
We believe in the power of community. We believe in giving a damn. We believe in face-to-face connections, in learning from others, in hugs and high-fives.
We bring together people who are driven by passion and purpose, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods and cities around the world.
Everyone is welcome.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo below.

AMA Chicago: Career Smart
2019-04-04 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago)
Of all the roles in an organization, marketers make a real impact not only on the business but on the world at large. We are drawn to the industry for both the professional and personal challenges that are meaningful, fulfilling and inspiring. At Career Smart, you will find ways to earn more emotional and financial rewards in your career – whether you’re 26 or 62, and whether you’re looking to develop yourself or develop your teams.

Key Takeaways

Strategies, tools and techniques you can use to find more inspiring career opportunities, and how you can implement them as a hiring manager to provide inspiring roles and environments for your teams.
Rich discussions in small groups of hiring managers and employees to share ideas and plans to implement these new ideas in their careers and organizations.
Opportunities to learn from professionals, career coaches, and others regarding practical aspects of job hunting such as resume building, LinkedIn profiles and more.

Who should attend:

New or prospective managers looking to enhance their leadership
Hiring decision-makers who want to find and attract Chicago’s best marketing talent
Experienced and new marketers who want to move their career forward

For more information, including speakers and agenda, click here!

This event is sponsored by the following donors:

HACK YOUR BRAND: Leveling Up your Online & Offline Presence
2019-04-11 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
We live in a society of instant gratification. And in the lightning fast-paced world of business, opportunistic professionals are looking for any shortcut, trick, or workaround that will give them a competitive advantage. Often, that means going outside the lines of best practices and experimenting with new methodologies. But can these so-called growth hacking techniques be applied to personal branding?
JD Gershbein understands that a personal brand is not built in a day. In today’s hyper-distracted world, achieving a recognizable brand identity takes time and the faithful execution of a strategic plan. This powerful and transformational program will expose you to powerful strategies, techniques, and exercises that will accelerate your personal branding process and help you immediately capture the interest of potential buyers.
AFTER ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
♦ Capture the mindset of excellence in attaining your professional goals
♦ Create a high-impact personal vision statement
♦ Apply personal brand archetypes to promote positive first and lasting impressions
♦ Understand the role of LinkedIn as a personal branding hub
♦ Master a sequence of strategies for authentic online engagement
♦ Increase your brand value through customer-centric video
♦ Initiate conversations that will quickly build trust and convert into business wins

HACK YOUR BRAND: Leveling Up your Online & Offline Presence
Schedule of Events
NETWORKING – 6:00 PM
PROGRAM – 6:30 PM-8:00 PM
MORE NETWORKING – 8:00 PM-8:30 PM

REFRESHMENTS (BEVERAGES & LIGHT HORS d’OEUVRES) WILL BE SERVED.
REGISTER NOW & SECURE YOUR SPOT!

About the Presenter
Since 2006, JD Gershbein has been instrumental in advancing the ideals of the digital world, inspiring opportunity-oriented individuals and companies to harness the power of the online media to elevate their profiles, engage their communities, and win new business. He is widely regarded as one of the world’s top LinkedIn strategists and a thought leader in the areas of personal branding, social networking, and social entrepreneurship. Dubbed A SPEAKER FOR THE DIGITAL AGE, JD educates audiences all over the globe on how to create a competitive advantage through the use of the social channels. He has been featured on FOX TV News, WGN TV News, NBC TV News, CBS TV News, and WGN Radio, and contributed written work to The Huffington Post, SUCCESS Online, NBC, and Forbes.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo below.

improve it! 2019Q2 Business Improv MORNING Workshop
2019-04-12 08:00 - 10:00 (America/Chicago)
Catalyst Ranch welcomes back this 2018 Chicago Innovation Award nominee with the improve it! 2019 Q2 Business Improv Workshop: Morning Edition!

Are you a business professional who would like to learn creative techniques to think more quickly on your feet during a meeting or at a presentation? Are you a leader or manager looking to enhance collaboration across your team? Are you the type of person who is always trying to be the best version of yourself?
Most importantly, are you the kind of person who likes…FUN?!?
Then, say no more! Come join improve it! in their 2019 Q2 Business Improv Workshop, and you’ll learn the healing powers of improvisation for the workplace.
Our energetic and unique workshop will highlight the impact that improvisational techniques can have on your communication skills, and overall professional presentational presence! (Try saying that five times fast.)
Over the course of two hours, you will participate in an interactive lecture and series of improvisation-based exercises led by professional improvisers. By the end of the workshop we guarantee you will have learned and practiced how to:

Communicate with your team
Motivate your peers in the workplace
Create an inspiring atmosphere for yourself and your coworkers!

The workshop will be led by improve it!’s founder, Erin Diehl, and three of improve it!’s professional improvisers — all who have trained and performed at top theaters in Chicago and around the United States. The workshop will provide you with an intimate, and hands-on experience to show you exactly what we do.
What do we do? We’re glad you asked…
improve it! LLC is a Chicago-based company that provides high-energy, laughter-filled corporate events & team building workshops that incorporate improvisation teams & techniques, while donating a portion of proceeds to charity. To learn more about improve it! visit www.improveitchicago.com.
Sound good to you? Great! We’ll see you there.
Additional Details for improve it! 2019 Q2 Business Improv Workshop:
Date and Time: April 12, 2019. Registration opens at 7:45 a.m. and the workshop will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m.
Light breakfast will be included.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo below!

CreativeMornings' Evening FieldTrip: Strategic Decision Making
2019-04-18 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
CreativeMornings’ evening FieldTrip series presents: Strategic Decision Making
April 18, 6pm-8pm

WHAT ARE FIELDTRIPS?
FieldTrips are meetups to interact, learn and collaborate in an effort to level-up your creative life. Built on top of our 20,000 monthly attendees at CreativeMornings talks, FieldTrips are community-organized events built on the spirit of generosity that has powered CreativeMornings events for the past 10 years.
ABOUT THIS FIELDTRIP
It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the decisions you have to make. Too often you either don’t decide anything or do too much. Either way, you are left stressed and exhausted. This workshop will include some time to get to know other attendees, and will discuss a decision making strategy that you can use to stay motivated and efficiently work toward your goals, and if implemented enough, can eventually become a habit.

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR
Benjamin Ritter, MBA, MPH, EdD, is a social entrepreneur and expert in the fields of personal and professional development with the mission to simplify health, wealth, and happiness. He is the founder Live for Yourself (LFY) Consulting, a personal and professional consulting service that works with clients to become the author of their own personal guidebook to fulfillment, and then integrates those teachings into their everyday lives.
As with classic CreativeMornings events, their evening FieldTrips are FREE to attend.
FieldTrips are limited to 25 attendees, however. Register with CreativeMornings to reserve your seat!

Everyone is creative.
A creative life requires bravery and action, honesty and hard work. We are here to support you, celebrate with you, and encourage you to make the things you love.
We believe in the power of community. We believe in giving a damn. We believe in face-to-face connections, in learning from others, in hugs and high-fives.
We bring together people who are driven by passion and purpose, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods and cities around the world.
Everyone is welcome.

See more public offerings at Catalyst Ranch by clicking the logo below.

Game Night: A Camp Boundless Pop-Up!
2019-04-18 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Camp Boundless returns to wet your board-game whistle! April’s Game Night comes back after a successful first go-around last fall. Join in the fray and have a fun-filled night of tabletop games of all kinds!
Pull up a chair to Game Night: a one-night-only Camp Boundless Pop-Up!

Camp Boundless Game Night! makes camp at Catalyst Ranch to introduce all those who have heard of these popular games—such as Settlers of Catan, Pirate’s Cove, Ticket to Ride, and more—but haven’t yet made the leap! Experienced game leaders will provide guidance and explain rules for games you’ve always wanted to try.
And gathering with friends around a tabletop game wouldn’t be the same without sharing pizza and table snacks. Admission includes this essential fuel for gameplay!
This night is specifically geared to first timers!
CHOOSE THE GAMES YOU’RE CURIOUS ABOUT
We’re bringing some of the most playable, interesting, and engaging games around; games you’ve always wanted to try. Revolutionary strategy games from all different eras. The hot new tabletop favorites.
Click the Menu below to purchase tickets and then vote for the games you want featured! Make three to seven selections, and we’ll make our Game Night out of your choices!**

​**Don’t worry if you don’t know the rules; we’ll teach ’em to you right then and there.
This Camp Boundless Game Night pop-up event will awaken the player in you and may start a new healthy addiction. Better dust your coffee-, card-, and dining room tables at home: After attending this event, they can expect to get a whole lot more attention!

Camp Boundless offers a variety of engaging, hands-on experiences for adults who want to explore, learn and grow. All of our events are a chance to disconnect from your phone and reconnect with discovery. Try new activities, meet new people, play games and laugh. Rediscover your childlike imagination and curiosity.
Don’t stop growing just because you’re grown-up!
For more information about Camp Boundless and our Annual All-Day Play Camp, check out our website!

Learn more about Chicago’s Most Creative Meeting and Event Space Catalyst Ranch!

Ignite Chicago: Talks at Catalyst Ranch in April
2019-04-30 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Ignite Chicago delivers TRUTH BOMBS and A-HA MOMENTS. Get a full dose at Catalyst Ranch in April!

Ignite Chicago is a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have a burning idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd.

Attending this evening’s Ignite Chicago does good for the city and for your neighbors. All proceeds from Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in April go toward funding the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization CoderDojoChi, which teaches web, game and app development to youth ages 7 to 17. So when you buy your ticket to expand your mind at Ignite Chicago, you effectively contribute to expanding the minds of young people in our beloved city!

Speaking at Ignite is an unforgettable experience. You step up to the mic. Your palms sweat. You can hear the thump of your blood rushing. Your voice cracks for an instant and then you launch into a rant for 300 straight seconds, wearing your passion on your sleeve, barely pausing to breathe. The crowd goes wild.
Ignite Chicago at Catalyst Ranch in April is open to everyone. All talks are 5 minutes (20 slides x 15 seconds/slide).

There is no theme for Ignite. You can talk about virtually anything as long as you can show us your passion for it. What’s the thing you most geek out about? What’s the topic of conversation that quickens your pulse and sets your toe a-tappin’? That is what we want to hear you speak about.
All speakers get equal time and equal billing. All talks are 5 minutes. You create 20 slides, and we set them up to auto-advance every 15 seconds.
Want to speak?
The audience at Ignite is generous and patient. They know the Ignite format is difficult, and they realize you might be an absolute beginner at public speaking. Don’t worry – they’ve got your back. You’re giving them your passion and your vulnerability, and they love you for that. You won’t find a more appreciative audience at any other event.
Some people think Ignite is about self-help talks. It isn’t. Nobody wants to hear a preachy pep talk. We’re already “good enough and smart enough,” so let’s keep this about you and your passionate ideas.
Finally, we’re serious about the no pitching thing. We know that sometimes a speaker must mention their profession in order to give their talk context, which is totally fine. But Ignite is not the place to tout your organization or to troll for clients.
Click the logo for tickets.

Find out more about the maestro behind both Ignite Chicago and CoderDojoChi, Ali Karbassi, by clicking here!

Lunch & Learn: How to Activate Leadership
2019-05-03 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
Catalyst Ranch continues its series of lunch-hour workshops focused on the ins and outs of Meeting Planning with Lunch & Learn: How to Activate Leadership!
We are the authority on everything Meetings-related,
and we invite Facilitators, Meeting Planners, Retreat Programming Coordinators, Administrative Assistants and everyone in between to get insider insight over a delectable meal.

Lunch & Learn: How to Activate Leadership Through Planning and Facilitating Your Meeting
A meeting can be a powerful leadership tool driving change in your culture, bringing out the best in people, expanding what’s possible. Yet, often people don’t like them or know how to use them strategically. How you think about and approach them makes all the difference. When your meeting really, really needs to make a difference, what can you do to shift how people think and act?
Join us to explore:

Creating an environment in which others are engaged and own the meeting outcome you seek to produce
Activating ownership, leadership through how you plan and conduct meetings
A model for using a meeting as a focal point for a process to shift mindsets and have conversations you have not had before together
10 common meeting traps to avoid

This session is ideal for anyone involved in planning a meeting – meeting planners, administrative assistants, office managers, department or firm managers or leaders, facilitators.

Admission price of $10 includes:

a two-page handout summarizing key points;
a mouth-watering meal from our catering partner Big Delicious Planet!
all ticket surcharges.

Please purchase your admission by Wednesday, April 24!
*Please email bryan@catalystranch.com with any dietary restrictions
Click here to purchase admission!

About the Facilitator: Jackie Sloane, MCC
Jackie Sloane loves working with people to cultivate leadership around them and expand what’s possible through how they use meetings, and engage others. She is a seasoned executive coach and consultant, specializing in enhancing ability to achieve greater well-being and significant results through how clients communicate, cultivate relationships, and lead key initiatives. Jackie has over 25 years’ experience in executive coaching, leadership development, communication and organizational engagement consulting.
The Transformational Leadership Retreats she co-created, based on a 6-question coaching model, have provided leaders a powerful way to utilize the focal point of an event to lead a process to “change the conversation,” set a new tone, and co-create new behaviors and practices, launching culture change in their organizations. She has a background in marketing and has served clients at privately-held, nonprofit, public sector and Fortune 100 firms, in most industries. She has served clients at Abbott, Accenture, American Society of Anesthesiology, Bank of America, Comcast, Deloitte, Exelon, Grant Thornton, Hollister, Navistar/International Truck and Engine, PepsiCo, Plante & Moran and Purdue University Northwest among others.
She has two coach certifications, including Master Certified Coach. She completed the graduate-level Mastering the Art of Professional Coaching in 1994, and many leadership, communication and coach training programs, and is a member of the International Coach Federation. Jackie has a B.A. in political science and completed graduate work at Columbia College. She is a mentor for Chicago Innovation’s Women’s Co-op.

Learn more about Chicago’s Most Creative Meeting and Event Space Catalyst Ranch!

Brainstorming: Creativity - real people, real conversations
2019-05-08 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago)
Dr. Benjamin Ritter brings the Brainstorming series to Catalyst Ranch to discuss Creativity.

Have you ever had an open and honest conversation with someone you didn’t know and felt completely energized?
Have you ever wondered how to find people to discuss meaningful topics that don’t relate to sports or the weather?
Brainstorming is an event that is focused on bringing people together to talk about a specific theme, cultivate community, and hopefully inspire personal and professional growth. This month we are focusing on the topic of Creativity.
There is so much power to getting strangers in a room, with varying cultures, background, and experiences, to brainstorm around specific topics.
The event (doors open at 6:15 PM, to provide time for refreshments and icebreakers) consists of breakout and group brainstorming sessions and to discuss specific questions related to the theme of the event.
Brainstorming events are limited in size to promote authentic relationships and building community. Get your ticket ASAP if you are planning to attend.
Ticket prices increase on the Friday before the event.

—
Hosted by:
Dr. Benjamin Ritter is a Chicago based social entrepreneur, coach, consultant, mentor, and expert in the fields of personal and professional internal leadership development.
Throughout his career he has worked in the areas of hospitality, the entertainment industry, public health, education, childcare, healthcare, and personal and professional development, constantly seeking new experiences to learn more about the world, and himself.
The culmination of his previous personal, professional, and educational experiences led him to create Live for Yourself (LFY) Consulting, a coaching/consulting company that is focused on helping successful professionals find more meaning at life and in work.
LFY Consulting bases its coaching practices on the unique LIVE system, which integrates doctoral level applied learning theory, and curriculum and leadership development research.
Dr. Benjamin Ritter is also the host of the Live for yourself podcast and Live for Yourself events, author of The Live for Yourself Workbook, and The Essentials, creator of The Breakup Supplement, and a freelance expert and writer.

See all of Catalyst Ranch’s Public Events here!

Surge for Water: Break the Barriers Tea Party
2019-05-18 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Chicago)
Surge for Water hosts an afternoon tea party to promote women’s health and sisterhood. This is a FREE event, and attendees have the opportunity to be fundraisers.
Break the Barriers: a Women’s Wellness Event
Surge for Water is a nonprofit organization which invests in communities around the globe: through safe water and sanitation solutions to help end the cycle of poverty, and by delivering women’s health and hygiene education to empower women and girls.
Join us for a day that changes the way you think about women’s health and sisterhood. Feel the empowerment!

Surge for Water’s afternoon tea party will include:

engaging conversations
insights into self-care and wellness
opportunities for guided movement and mindfulness
an expressive interactive art session

Commit to truly breaking barriers.
Saturday, May 18th 2 – 4:30 pm
Catalyst Ranch
656 W Randolph St., Ste 3W, Chicago, IL 60661
Thank you to Surge’s Sponsors:

SpaRitual
Catalyst Ranch
Honest Tea

Thank you to Surge’s Partners:

Jubilant
Photoserve
The Simple Good
Tiny Space to Breathe

Learn more about Chicago’s Most Creative Meeting and Event Space Catalyst Ranch!
