YPN Offers Education and Networking for Young Professionals

It’s not easy being a young professional. There is constant pressure to network, gain respect, and to grow professionally. The Young Professional Network of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce understands how important career advancement is for those in their 20’s and 30’s and also how difficult this is to achieve on one’s own. That’s why YPN has created a development program designed to engage and introduce young professionals to the Greater Philadelphia region’s vast resources and opportunities. As the premier organization of its kind in the region, the Young Professionals Network gives young business people the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, share common interests and give back to the community.

At monthly YPN events hosted in some of Greater Philadelphia’s premier hot spots, business leaders, public officials and industry experts provide attendees with insight into relevant issues and tips on how to advance their careers.

Recently, YPN members got an insiders look at the newly refurbished Perelman Building, an annex of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Gail Harrity, Chief Operating Officer for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, spoke about the economic impact of the museum on the Greater Philadelphia Region. She discussed her responsibility to oversee all administrative functions at the Art Museum and the Museum's first Long-Range Plan- which articulated the need for additional resources and space, and resulted in several major initiatives, including the recently completed $246 million capital campaign.

YPN will continue its volunteer efforts with Philly Cares and McClure Elementary School in North Philly, as well as adopting new initiatives. Last year, YPN members also participated in an event with Young Variety Children’s Charity where young professionals took Variety children out for a day at Citizen’s Bank Park for a Phillies game. Each professional was partnered with a child for a memorable day of baseball.

This year, YPN members will continue to work with the Chamber on issues like attracting and retaining talent in the region; ethics reform — education and supporting general public to vote "yes" on ballot question; the expansion of the Pennsylvania Convention Center; reduction of Business Privilege tax; and the creation of a Summer Associate program with regional law firms.

To join or learn more about YPN, visit www.ypnphilly.com.