Eastern Chamber forms group for young professionals in the region


EASTERN CONNECTICUT – The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut has announced the formation of the Young Professionals of Eastern Connecticut, a group designed to provide opportunities for individuals between 22 and 45 to pursue common interests and to help improve the region.

The group’s chair, Lauren Miner, a social media specialist at Miranda Creative in Norwich, said the group will provide young professionals with a chance to meet, network and showcase the region.

“There will be educational opportunities and a chance for ‘YP’s’ to connect in a fun, social setting,” she said.  “We also look forward to promoting this region to upcoming generations.  Our hope is that young professionals will be encouraged to stay and seek employment within our area.  YPECT will not only unite ‘YP’s’ but also provide a platform to showcase the many opportunities within reach here in eastern Connecticut.”

Tony Sheridan, the chamber’s president and CEO, said the new group is one way the 1,600-member business organization is working to fulfill its mission.

“The Chamber’s mission is to support the business community in eastern Connecticut. We help promote business in general while providing networking and other opportunities to support the career development and personal choices of young professionals.”

He said the Chamber also sees the new group as another way to promote the region.

“We are promoting the qualities that make our region an attractive place for young professionals. We want them to remain and thrive in eastern Connecticut.”

Prospective members generally can be between 22-45, but there is no hard-and-fast limit. Those seeking membership may work in an office setting, but also can be artists, service workers, the self-employed, among other employment categories.

As envisioned by the Chamber, the YP group will provide these opportunities to:

  • Network with other young professionals at monthly events;
  • Meet with prominent business and philanthropic leaders;
  • Develop professional skills through YPECT programming;
  • Use membership and experience with YPECT as a resume builder.


In addition to learning how to improve their leadership skills, YPECT members will be able to gather each month at informal meetings to make new contacts and develop leads, but also to create lasting contacts, build friendships and share ideas.

YPECT members will be encouraged to take part in a variety of volunteer activities decided upon by the YPECT steering committee.  The volunteer opportunities will give members a chance to contribute to building a stronger eastern Connecticut and to help make important contacts.

Anyone interested in learning more about the group or in joining can contact Meghan Akeman at the chamber of commerce, 860-701-9113, or at makeman@ChamberECT.com

 

 

About The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut:

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut is a collaborative of business and community leaders dedicated to securing and enhancing the economic vitality of eastern Connecticut. The Chamber works to create value for its members and the region by providing forums for business networking, leadership and discussions of issues that affect the region; providing opportunities for members to showcase their products, services and accomplishments; helping small businesses succeed through educational programs; and working to reduce the costs of doing business in Connecticut.  For more information: www.chamberect.com