You are fresh out of college and pursuing your career path. What was your first job? Was it in your hometown or did you move to a new city? Either way, the Young Professional programs hosted by area Chambers of Commerce are important for several reasons.
First, it’s a prime way to network. Second, opportunities often present themselves. Third, the program can play a role in developing a personal and professional balance for the 22- to 40-year-old young professionals making their way in the business world.
Along the way, COVID began to have an impact on the YP program in Aiken. It was time to hit the reset switch on a program that began in 2007 and has seen numbers dwindle.
“We had a focus group discussion about what the changing needs were and how best to meet them,” according to Emily Murphy, who works with Membership Services at the Aiken Chamber.
She added that they are working to capture info, facilitate relationships, and connect the YP’s with the events that will benefit them.
Jason Rabun is the incoming Chairman of the Chamber and has been involved with the YP program since the beginning.
“One of our main goals is to adapt to changes and scheduling to make meeting at different times and days a way to get more involvement and better meet the needs of this group.”
Rabun reached out to some of the future leaders of Aiken and listened to their suggestions.
“It just made sense to start over and work to give the YP’s what benefits them the most, at the time that works best for them. We’re putting our best foot forward, beginning with our first Connect Aiken event scheduled for Tuesday.”
Both Murphy and Rabun promise a fun, informal drop-in for drinks and refreshments from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at Sheffield’s at Rose Hill, 221 Greenville Street, in Aiken.
You can RSVP to Emily at the Aiken Chamber at emurphy@aikenchamber.net.
As Rabun told us, “No borders. Anyone from Aiken and the CSRA is welcome.”
Editor’s Note: Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means!
If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
