Greater Grand Rapids YNPN

Last week we began discussions about starting a Greater Grand Rapids Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN). With approximately 2,300 nonprofits in Kent County alone, according the Community Research Institute, it seems only fitting for us to have our own organization here.

During our first meeting we discussed what we needed from a YNPN in Grand Rapids. Many ideas were thrown around, including professional development, networking, credentials, etc. I was kind of surprised to be glad that we did not discuss the need to do service projects. There are so many organizations that provide service projects already. This does not mean we are not going to do service projects, because it is definitely important, it just means we will only be doing it as a secondary mission.

As an organization for nonprofit professionals, those working in the field and those involved in other ways, it is important for us to perpetuate our values of community service, but there is also a need for us to strengthen our skills and network to make these services are available for others and us in the future.

There are not many opportunities available for nonprofit professionals to network and develop there skills at a regional level. Some organizations provide these things, but we really need to dive deep in our region in order to stay connected and offer each other support and mentoring.

Over the past few months I have found it very important to have a strong peer network. It is always important to have mentors that have been working for a longer time, but having a peer network allows us to educate ourselves on opportunities available for us to advance our careers and develop our skills.

Greater Grand Rapids YNPN is exactly what we have been needing. I hope that it allows us to even further strengthen our bonds and Nonprofit Sector here in Grand Rapids and in the surrounding area.  Keep an eye out for more information on the organization.