Glen Ellyn, IL – The Association of Contingency Planners (ACP) announces the chartering of its Northern Illinois Chapter. This chapter will provide a robust program consisting of professional development and networking opportunities for business continuity professionals serving the Northern Illinois area.

“Northern Illinois, which includes Chicago, the third largest city in the US, is home to 31 Fortune 500 companies,” reports Damian Walch, President of the ACP Northern Illinois Chapter. “Our mission is to coordinate local efforts that enhance the disciplines of business continuity, disaster recovery and crisis management planning. The chapter will cultivate a network of people who will help strengthen the continuity of Northern Illinois’ critical infrastructure of people, transportation, and information. I am very excited to be part of the wonderful group of individuals launching this new ACP chapter. The response has been overwhelming.”

“This is a significant milestone for the Association,” Paul Striedl, Chairman / CEO of ACP shares. “Not only is ACP seeing growth, but also the profession and that is inspiring news for the industry. We look forward to the opportunity to continue our role in supporting planning professionals across the country.”

The ACP Northern Illinois Chapter invites organizations involved in business continuity, disaster recovery, and crisis management planning to send representatives to be our guest at our first meeting in June 2006. For information, please visit www.acp-international.com. Inquiries about meeting schedules and membership may be directed to Damian Walch at dwalch@us.ibm.com or John Jackson, Membership Director, at jj@fusionriskmgmt.com. Local media requests should contact Marcia Kittler, Chapter Public Relations Director, at Marcia@MKBusinessSolutions.com

Founded in 1983, the ACP is the premier organization for business continuity professionals that provides a powerful networking and learning environment for its members. The organization has become a unifying force in defining and leading the rapidly evolving fields of business continuity, disaster recovery and emergency response.  With 40 chapters and over 2,000 members, ACP is the largest networking and information exchange organization in North America for business continuity professionals. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in or responsibility for the varied aspects of continuity planning.

MEDIA CONTACT:
 
ACP Corporate Director Public Relations                       
Leah A. Core, CBCP
leah@resilienceplanning.com

Mobile 602.738.8775
Office 480.505.8800 x4215
www.acp-international.com