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Stay Connected with the Norwalk Chamber ? ? The sun is out and July is already in full swing for the GNC community! ?? We’re building on the momentum with new connections, great events, and continued growth across Norwalk’s business community. ??? Plenty ahead this month! Stay plugged in and see what we accomplish together! ?? Facebook Instagram Linkedin ? Michael Downs ?Contact Info Downs Rachlin Intellectual Property helps businesses protect and maximize the value of their innovations through strategic intellectual property legal services. Founded by Harvard Law School graduate Michael Downs, the firm brings decades of experience securing U.S. and international patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property rights for startups and established companies alike. The team works closely with clients to develop practical legal strategies that align with their business goals, helping innovators confidently protect and grow what they've created. Conor McLaughlin Contact Info Paychex helps businesses simplify payroll, human resources, employee benefits, and insurance through a combination of technology and personalized support. Its all-in-one Paychex Flex platform gives employers the tools to manage payroll, time and attendance, benefits, and other workforce needs in one place. ?Serving businesses of all sizes, Paychex helps reduce administrative demands, support compliance, and give business owners more time to focus on their employees, customers, and continued growth. Lauren Rossi ?Contact Info Once Upon A Child Norwalk makes it easy for families to buy and sell gently used children’s clothing, shoes, toys, books, baby gear, and more. By offering quality name-brand items at affordable prices, the locally owned store helps parents save money while giving pre-loved items a second life. Customers can also earn cash on the spot by selling items their children have outgrown. Once Upon A Child Norwalk is a trusted resource for growing families throughout the community. Helen McAlinden Contact Info Homes with Hope is dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness and food insecurity throughout Fairfield County, by offering paths toward long-term stability and independence. Through emergency shelters, supportive and affordable housing, rapid re-housing, a community kitchen, food pantry, youth development programs, and personalized case management, Homes with Hope empowers individuals and families to build brighter futures. ?Since 1983, the organization has remained committed to meeting people where they are, helping neighbors in need move from crisis to self-sufficiency with dignity, compassion, and hope. The following Chamber Members celebrated anniversaries in July 2026. Congratulations and thank you for your continued support!? 30 Years Shipman & Goodwin Open Doors John H. Wygal & Company LLC norwalk 20+ Years LAZ Parking Baywater Properties 5+ Years Forever Sweet Bakery Inn at GrayBarns La Calle Arepas Bar Modern Dermatology of Connecticut ?? Take Your Networking to New Heights! ?? The Greater Norwalk Chamber’s Annual Summer Rooftop Social is back! Join us on Tuesday, July 21, from 5:30 to 7:30pm at SONO 50 for an unforgettable evening of great connections, summer fun, and breathtaking 360-degree views of Long Island Sound and the city. ?? Come mix, mingle, and soak up the summer from one of SoNo’s best rooftop spaces! Special thanks to event sponsor Capital Equities Group/SONO 50! Visit our Website Free SCORE Workshops Help Small Businesses Build New Skills SCORE Western Connecticut is offering two free, in-person workshops for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals this July. Learning to Use Generative AI to Create Business Solutions July 22, 6:00–8:00 PM | Easton Public Library This hands-on workshop will explore practical AI tools that can support productivity, customer engagement, marketing, and decision-making. ? Social Media Marketing for Small Business: Turning Posts into Customers July 29, 6:00–7:30 PM | New Canaan Library Participants will learn how to select the right platforms, create engaging content, and develop a simple social media marketing plan. Click Here to Register Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum's 19th Annual Old-Fashioned Flea Market Attention bargain hunters & flea market lovers! Mark your calendars for Sunday, Sept. 13, from 10am to 4pm! The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is hosting its 19th annual Old-fashioned Flea Market in Mathews Park, Norwalk, CT. Don't miss out on the fun! Contact Info Union Savings Bank Foundation Awarded $693,000 in Grants The Union Savings Bank (USB) Foundation awarded a record-breaking $693,000 in grants to 80 nonprofit organizations across 34 communities, marking the largest grant distribution and highest number of recipients since the Foundation was established in 1998. The funding supports a wide range of programs serving individuals and families throughout Central and Western Connecticut and neighboring communities, including education, literacy, youth development, arts and culture, health and wellness, food security, housing, and economic development. “At Union Savings Bank, we believe the strength of our communities is reflected in the dedication of the nonprofits that serve them,” said Chelen Reyes, President and CEO of Union Savings Bank. “We are proud to expand our support and help advance the important work of these 80 organizations.” Michele Bonvicini, Executive Director of the USB Foundation, added, “As nonprofits face increasing costs and funding challenges, our support is more important than ever. We are honored to invest in organizations that provide critical resources and opportunities that help our neighbors thrive.” Click Here to Learn More MyCTSavings Annual Enrollment deadline is August 31st Newly eligible employers will begin receiving MyCTSavings enrollment notices in mid-July. Connecticut employers with five or more full-time or part-time employees must either enroll in MyCTSavings or offer another qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), or SEP. Employers must register by August 31 using the access code provided by MyCTSavings and Vestwell. The program is free for employers and automatically enrolls eligible employees age 19 or older, though employees may opt out at any time. Employers with past-due registrations are still required to enroll to avoid future penalties. Click Here to Learn More INTEMPO & The Norwalk Art Space Announce Launch of The Alon Music School INTEMPO and The Norwalk Art Space (TNAS) are proud to announce the launch of The Alon Music School, a new tuition-free, year-round music school that will provide high-quality music education to Norwalk youth beginning in September 2026! The school is named in honor of the late Alon Panovka, whose love of music, generous spirit, and commitment to expanding free education continue to inspire our community. They will offer free instruction in strings, choir, guitar, ukulele, and ensemble performance, as well as a new Composer-in-Residence program. Operated by INTEMPO and hosted at TNAS, with support from the Norwalk Youth Symphony and the City of Norwalk, The Alon Music School aims to serve approximately 100 students in its inaugural year and is backed by an endowment of more than $500,000 to ensure its long-term sustainability. Stay tuned for enrollment information! Click Here to Learn More Pirates Weekend Sets Sail for Sheffield Island Lighthouse The Norwalk Seaport Association’s annual Pirates Weekend and Cruise returns July 18 and 19 for a family-friendly adventure on Sheffield Island. Guests can enjoy treasure hunts, pirate games, sea chanteys, storytelling, swordplay, and appearances by the Bawdy Buccaneers, all included with the ferry ticket. The experience also includes scenic views of Norwalk Harbor and opportunities to tour Sheffield Island Lighthouse while learning about its history and the importance of preserving Long Island Sound. Ferries depart from 90 Water Street at 10am,11:30am, and 1pm. Click Here to Purchase Tickets Connecticut Housing Partners Hosts 2nd Annual Dinner & Raffle Join Connecticut Housing Partners for their Annual Dinner & Raffle on Tuesday, 9/29 from 6pm-8:30pm at Jacob's Pickles in Norwalk. This evening supports their Key Campaign, embodying their ongoing mission to create safe, stable, and affordable housing across CT. Tickets include dinner, open bar, an evening of conversation, and a chance to win up to $30,000! Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the power of home, to win big, and help Connecticut Housing Partners continue to build a brighter future - one key at a time. Sponsorship opportunities available. Email kwilliams@cthousingpartners.org to learn more. Click Here to Purchase Tickets Don't forget that you can continue sending your news and events for us to share with the membership (they will go out in a separate email). In the meantime, check our website for News updates and continue submitting your events to the Member Calendar. News Events ? Not sure how to submit your events to the Member Calendar? Login to the Chamber's Member-Only Portal (or enter your email address and we will contact you to create an account) to register and pay for events online, submit payment for invoices of any kind, and update contacts and contact information. Member-Only Portal Create an Account ? Chamber Connections The Greater Norwalk Chamber strives to create an interconnected and inclusive business community. Together with our member businesses, we advance the economic and community development of Norwalk and the surrounding area. Discover What the Chamber Can Do for You greaternorwalkchamber.com 203.866.2521 Greater Norwalk Chamber | 101 East Avenue | Norwalk, CT 06851 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice
The sun is out and July is already in full swing for the GNC community! ??
We’re building on the momentum with new connections, great events, and continued growth across Norwalk’s business community. ???
Plenty ahead this month! Stay plugged in and see what we accomplish together! ??
Facebook
Instagram
Linkedin
Michael Downs
?Contact Info
Downs Rachlin Intellectual Property helps businesses protect and maximize the value of their innovations through strategic intellectual property legal services. Founded by Harvard Law School graduate Michael Downs, the firm brings decades of experience securing U.S. and international patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property rights for startups and established companies alike.
The team works closely with clients to develop practical legal strategies that align with their business goals, helping innovators confidently protect and grow what they've created.
Conor McLaughlin
Contact Info
Paychex helps businesses simplify payroll, human resources, employee benefits, and insurance through a combination of technology and personalized support. Its all-in-one Paychex Flex platform gives employers the tools to manage payroll, time and attendance, benefits, and other workforce needs in one place.
?Serving businesses of all sizes, Paychex helps reduce administrative demands, support compliance, and give business owners more time to focus on their employees, customers, and continued growth.
Lauren Rossi
Once Upon A Child Norwalk makes it easy for families to buy and sell gently used children’s clothing, shoes, toys, books, baby gear, and more. By offering quality name-brand items at affordable prices, the locally owned store helps parents save money while giving pre-loved items a second life.
Customers can also earn cash on the spot by selling items their children have outgrown. Once Upon A Child Norwalk is a trusted resource for growing families throughout the community.
Helen McAlinden
Homes with Hope is dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness and food insecurity throughout Fairfield County, by offering paths toward long-term stability and independence. Through emergency shelters, supportive and affordable housing, rapid re-housing, a community kitchen, food pantry, youth development programs, and personalized case management, Homes with Hope empowers individuals and families to build brighter futures.
?Since 1983, the organization has remained committed to meeting people where they are, helping neighbors in need move from crisis to self-sufficiency with dignity, compassion, and hope.
The following Chamber Members celebrated anniversaries in July 2026. Congratulations and thank you for your continued support!?
30 Years
Shipman & Goodwin
Open Doors
John H. Wygal & Company LLC norwalk
20+ Years
LAZ Parking
Baywater Properties
5+ Years
Forever Sweet Bakery
Inn at GrayBarns
La Calle Arepas Bar
Modern Dermatology of Connecticut
The Greater Norwalk Chamber’s Annual Summer Rooftop Social is back! Join us on Tuesday, July 21, from 5:30 to 7:30pm at SONO 50 for an unforgettable evening of great connections, summer fun, and breathtaking 360-degree views of Long Island Sound and the city. ??
Come mix, mingle, and soak up the summer from one of SoNo’s best rooftop spaces! Special thanks to event sponsor Capital Equities Group/SONO 50!
Free SCORE Workshops Help Small Businesses Build New Skills
SCORE Western Connecticut is offering two free, in-person workshops for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals this July.
Learning to Use Generative AI to Create Business Solutions
July 22, 6:00–8:00 PM | Easton Public Library
This hands-on workshop will explore practical AI tools that can support productivity, customer engagement, marketing, and decision-making.
?
Social Media Marketing for Small Business: Turning Posts into Customers
July 29, 6:00–7:30 PM | New Canaan Library
Participants will learn how to select the right platforms, create engaging content, and develop a simple social media marketing plan.
Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum's 19th Annual Old-Fashioned Flea Market
Attention bargain hunters & flea market lovers! Mark your calendars for Sunday, Sept. 13, from 10am to 4pm! The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is hosting its 19th annual Old-fashioned Flea Market in Mathews Park, Norwalk, CT. Don't miss out on the fun!
Union Savings Bank Foundation Awarded $693,000 in Grants
The Union Savings Bank (USB) Foundation awarded a record-breaking $693,000 in grants to 80 nonprofit organizations across 34 communities, marking the largest grant distribution and highest number of recipients since the Foundation was established in 1998. The funding supports a wide range of programs serving individuals and families throughout Central and Western Connecticut and neighboring communities, including education, literacy, youth development, arts and culture, health and wellness, food security, housing, and economic development.
“At Union Savings Bank, we believe the strength of our communities is reflected in the dedication of the nonprofits that serve them,” said Chelen Reyes, President and CEO of Union Savings Bank. “We are proud to expand our support and help advance the important work of these 80 organizations.”
Michele Bonvicini, Executive Director of the USB Foundation, added, “As nonprofits face increasing costs and funding challenges, our support is more important than ever. We are honored to invest in organizations that provide critical resources and opportunities that help our neighbors thrive.”
MyCTSavings Annual Enrollment deadline is August 31st
Newly eligible employers will begin receiving MyCTSavings enrollment notices in mid-July. Connecticut employers with five or more full-time or part-time employees must either enroll in MyCTSavings or offer another qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), or SEP.
Employers must register by August 31 using the access code provided by MyCTSavings and Vestwell. The program is free for employers and automatically enrolls eligible employees age 19 or older, though employees may opt out at any time. Employers with past-due registrations are still required to enroll to avoid future penalties.
INTEMPO & The Norwalk Art Space Announce Launch of The Alon Music School
INTEMPO and The Norwalk Art Space (TNAS) are proud to announce the launch of The Alon Music School, a new tuition-free, year-round music school that will provide high-quality music education to Norwalk youth beginning in September 2026!
The school is named in honor of the late Alon Panovka, whose love of music, generous spirit, and commitment to expanding free education continue to inspire our community. They will offer free instruction in strings, choir, guitar, ukulele, and ensemble performance, as well as a new Composer-in-Residence program.
Operated by INTEMPO and hosted at TNAS, with support from the Norwalk Youth Symphony and the City of Norwalk, The Alon Music School aims to serve approximately 100 students in its inaugural year and is backed by an endowment of more than $500,000 to ensure its long-term sustainability. Stay tuned for enrollment information!
The Norwalk Seaport Association’s annual Pirates Weekend and Cruise returns July 18 and 19 for a family-friendly adventure on Sheffield Island. Guests can enjoy treasure hunts, pirate games, sea chanteys, storytelling, swordplay, and appearances by the Bawdy Buccaneers, all included with the ferry ticket.
The experience also includes scenic views of Norwalk Harbor and opportunities to tour Sheffield Island Lighthouse while learning about its history and the importance of preserving Long Island Sound. Ferries depart from 90 Water Street at 10am,11:30am, and 1pm.
Connecticut Housing Partners Hosts 2nd Annual Dinner & Raffle
Join Connecticut Housing Partners for their Annual Dinner & Raffle on Tuesday, 9/29 from 6pm-8:30pm at Jacob's Pickles in Norwalk.
This evening supports their Key Campaign, embodying their ongoing mission to create safe, stable, and affordable housing across CT.
Tickets include dinner, open bar, an evening of conversation, and a chance to win up to $30,000! Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the power of home, to win big, and help Connecticut Housing Partners continue to build a brighter future - one key at a time.
Sponsorship opportunities available. Email kwilliams@cthousingpartners.org to learn more.
Greater Norwalk Chamber | 101 East Avenue | Norwalk, CT 06851 US
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