Women in Planning + Development (WP+D) is a unique forum for women professionals to expand their professional skills, network, and exchange ideas while contributing to the improvement and development of Chicagoland neighborhoods and communities. By attending WP+D sponsored programs and being involved on WP+D committees, WP+D membership offers rich personal and professional rewards.  Specific benefits of membership include:

Membership Directory offers valuable contact information for a wide network of women – from students to young professionals to mid-career and retired leaders in the field of planning and development.  Printed in hard copy for easy desk reference, this book is worth the price of membership alone!

15th Anniversary-Oriented Programming events and speakers that honor the mission of WP+D’s founders.  Includes speaker events showcasing Chicagoland women leaders and intimate networking opportunities that aim to develop friendship among our members as well as professional ties.

WP+Drinks at a different ‘happy hour’ and coffeehouse locations throughout the city. Orient yourself to different neighborhoods while developing contacts with other professional women in our field.

Discounted Admission to WP+D events and programs hosted by partner organizations.

Member Appreciation Picnic in the summer free to all WP+D members where we hold elections for the incoming WP+D Board of Directors.

Holiday Party winter networking at a festive location.  Past years have included a chocolate champagne party at Ethel's and a cocktail party at Corosh!

WP+D has three membership levels to match the focus of the organization:

Student Member ($25) – for current students and recent graduates (3 mos.).  WP+D offers an introduction to a wide network of women outside of the academic environment.  In your fellow members, you will find potential mentors, friends, and possibly a  future employer.

Professional Member ($50) – for young professionals and non-profit/public sector professionals. WP+D offers targeted career advancement opportunities and skills training in a more social setting than other organizations.

Sustaining Member ($75) – for established professionals and women who are able to subsidize the student membership rate.  WP+D offers an opportunity to mentor energetic young women in your field; or if you have limited availability, act as an advisor to a committee and attend annual events such as the Member Appreciation Picnic to network with your peers.