What is Keene YPN and why was it formed?
The Keene Young Professionals Network offers social networking, professional development, and community-oriented volunteer opportunities for young professionals who work or reside in the Monadnock region.
When Keene YPN was founded, New Hampshire was experiencing difficulty attracting young professionals from other states and in addition, college graduates were leaving at a 50% rate as they were leaving to reside and work in other states. This loss of talent and workforce of the next generation of leaders prompted Governor Lynch to create the Task Force on Young Worker Retention to address this problem. Based on recommendations from this effort, Keene and ten other communities created young professionals networks across the state to attract and keep young professionals in New Hampshire. These young professionals networks were created to support personal and professional development of the upcoming generation of the workforce, as well as promote shared prosperity and a sense belonging in our communities among the demographic.
The Greater Keene Chamber of Commerce took an early lead to promote economic vitality and community involvement within the Monadnock Region by creating the Keene Young Professionals Network in 2007.
How does the leadership of the Keene YPN work and who helps to create new events?
The Keene YPN is managed by a Planning Board who are a team of volunteers who strive to promote our mission to create a well-informed, energetic, and involved group of individuals who are known for their professionalism and are the driving force behind the local economy. Our team of volunteers love being involved and hope you will get involved too!
How do I participate?
The Keene YPN doesn’t have membership dues or membership requirements – it’s not a membership at all, really! To participate, simply sign up for our newsletter and “like” us on our Facebook page, or just show up to our next event or activity! Click here to learn more about signing up.
What sorts of things does this group do?
Social networking events are hosted once per month at local establishments, usually on the first Wednesdays of the month. Some of our social networking events also include seasonal events such as barbeques and trips to the beach in the summer, and sledding parties in the winter.
In addition, the Keene YPN organizes professional development programs where members learn new skills, increase community awareness, and grow professionally—all in a fun and collegial environment. Some past events have included informational presentations on yoga, various community initiatives, and professional goal setting.
Another important aspect is our collective promotion of volunteerism in our region. The Keene YPN organizes events and connects individuals to groups who have volunteer needs. This aspect of Keene YPN helps young professionals connect more deeply with the people and places of the Monadnock region.
Where can I learn more about other young professionals networks across the State of NH?
Stay Work Play is a non-profit agency which furthers the 55% Initiative, supports and advance several recommendations made by the Governor’s Task Force on Young Worker Retention, and serves as an independent organization to run a website and associated marketing effort geared at providing comprehensive information on what New Hampshire can offer to young professionals in terms of staying, working, and playing here in NH. You can learn more about Stay Work Play and check out other young professionals networks throughout NH here.
Why should I get involved with the Keene YPN?
If you are new to the area, want to expand your professional network, or become more connected with this community, we encourage you to check out one of our events! We are a group of peers who — to borrow a phrase — stay, work, and play in the Monadnock Region, and we share common interests and ambitions. We welcome you to stop by anytime!