What We're All About

Bringing together the talents & insights of emerging young professionals (YPs), ages 21-39,
in the Greater South Bend/Mishawaka region is what YPN is all about. Brought to you by The Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County, YPN is simply a network of YPs – a dynamic & diverse group of peers with a passion for making a difference…a willingness to learn…the desire to build important relationships…& the energy to get involved in the community.

Too often, YPs don’t feel like they have a place or voice in business meetings or in the
community. Through the programs & resources delivered by YPN, YPs will have more
opportunities to develop professionally, get connected & shine.


The Realities

Let’s face it. Every community is competing for the best & brightest in young talent. YPs have many opportunities in front of them. A community influenced by YPs is a community that can attract & retain them. YPN creates an environment of connection, direction & education. YPN gives YPs an outlet to effect change in the community & to work hand-in-hand with business & community leaders.

YPN programs bring in “real people” talking about “real issues” important to YPs. From networking to economic development & leadership to entrepreneurship, YPN programs
introduce YPs to area leaders & experts in their fields to offer first-hand, first-rate info.

YPN is all about you - getting engaged with business & the future of the region through networking, the exchange of ideas & professional development.

Get Involved

If you are interested in adding your name to the contact list to receive regular emails from The Chamber announcing upcoming programs and events and other information specifically targeted to young professionals, click here. You will begin to:

DEVELOP
All YPN events are focused on professional or personal development. Often presented by YPs, these programs are quick-paced & discussion-based to encourage active participation from the audience. Not all programs may be what you are looking for. That’s why YPN offers programs throughout the year; some will fit your developmental needs. These events also tap you into what’s happening in the community & give you a “heads–up” on what’s going on in the region.

CONNECT
Most YPN programs feature a networking component to encourage you to make connections that are vital to your personal & business success. Connect not only with other YPs but also influential business & community leaders. To make things happen, you need to build those all-important relationships. Let YPN be the vehicle to facilitate those connections. Get in front of the area's top leaders & become part of the engine to make good things happen.

EMPOWER
Strengthen the influence you have with your employer & within the community. YPN is the enabler. It’s up to you to make it happen. If you want a voice in decision-making, a first step is getting actively involved with YPN & the community. Cities in the region look to YPN as a resource when they are looking for YPs to sit on various boards & committees. Brush up on your skills & use the opportunities offered by YPN to connect with peers & the “movers and
shakers” in the area. Opportunity knocks with YPN...Are you willing to answer?

Mission Statement

To develop, connect, empower and retain young professionals through increased opportunities and resources to enhance their professional development and business success within the region.

Goals

• To broaden the professional skills & knowledge of area young professionals.
• To better connect young professionals in the business community/Chamber.
• To increase opportunities & foster relationships to involve & empower young professionals in the progress of the region.
• To attract & retain young professionals to this region.
• Enhance the area quality of life.

Fees

There is no fee to be a part of the Young Professionals Network.

Fees may be charged for certain events/programs.  

For comments or additional information on YPN, contact Shari Carroll at 574.234.0051, ext. 311, or email scarroll@sjchamber.org.