Young Professionals of Gage County builds future opportunities

The Young Professionals of Gage County, or YPG, is creating lasting impact by shaping the region’s next generation of leaders. As industries evolve and rural communities work to retain top talent, organizations focused on young leaders, such as YPG, are a dynamic force driving change, bringing fresh ideas to the community, and generating new economic opportunities. Beatrice Mayor Bob Morgan recently recognized the group’s efforts with a declaration naming a week in April as Young Professionals Week. 

At its core, the mission of YPG, a coordinated effort by the Beatrice Area Chamber and NGage, is simple – empower, connect, and develop future leaders across Gage County. With an inclusive platform focused on development and engagement, the group is building on the mission to ensure Gage County is a great place to live and to grow by targeting key initiatives in five identified focus areas. 

Retaining talent

Retaining and attracting young professionals is central to economic growth, and YPG strives to create a dynamic environment to attract other talented individuals to the community. Through networking opportunities, YPG keeps young professionals engaged, so they can learn from each other in a lecture-style setting or make new connections over a game of pickleball. Whether building a business, finding a new job, or building a successful career, information sharing is essential, and YPG provides the framework for developing meaningful connections and friendships. The sense of community these events create makes Gage County a more appealing place for long-term investment.  

Forming the next generation of leaders

Building the next generation of strong community leaders requires investing in young professionals wherever they work – in corporate offices, public service, community organizations, or owning businesses.  When young professionals stay and grow in Gage County, they contribute new ideas and approaches to problems in the community, creating a ripple effect. As time passes, and they take on additional roles in an organization or pursue public office, they can advocate for and accomplish ever greater changes and improvements in their workplaces and the community.

Engaging with the community

Community service is a cornerstone of YPG. Young Professionals are encouraged to participate in volunteer work, local charitable initiatives, and social events in the community. YPG also facilitates events to help build relationships between young leaders and the community. Actively participating within the community helps young professionals learn more about the landscape of Gage County and bring these insights back to their workplaces and leadership roles.

Developing the workforce

Personal and professional development is crucial for young professionals, so YPG offers professional development workshops. These events keep members engaged and increase their ability to contribute in the workplace and the community and can also include fun, relevant opportunities like updating headshots.

Bridging gaps

In rural communities, opportunities to continue education and collaborate can be limited in scope or accessibility. YPG is targeting these gaps with a range of events, workshops, and opportunities for professionals to connect with each other and important resources to help further their goals. By increasing access across sectors, unique collaborations occur.
Communities thrive when people invest in one another, and in Gage County, YPG is leading the way. 

To explore other opportunities for growth in Gage County, Nebraska, connect with NGage on our website or contact us today.