Young Professionals Organization Mentors Young People for Success
The Hardeman County Young Professionals (HCYP) is a personal and professional development program that was created by the Hardeman County Chamber of Commerce in June 2022. The goal of the organization is to encourage young leaders in the community to interact socially, exchange ideas, share common interests, and grow personally and professionally. The HCYP will hold its next meeting on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at Simon’s from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and invites people from the ages of 17 to 40, students to professionals, to come out and meet others like themselves.
“The Young Professionals program allows the chamber to tap into the potential of young professionals, engage them in community-building activities, foster collaboration, and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the community,” said Hardeman County Chamber of Commerce Director Vickie Walton.
The HCYP will work closely to help those mentored to establish future career goals and personal development. HCYP president, Chris Williams, has a heart for young people and knows the importance of helping those who desire to succeed. Having direction from and a connection with peers can boost confidence in young people, especially when they see others just like themselves succeeding. When Williams was asked to serve as its president, he did not hesitate to accept the position.
“Being a newly elected Bolivar City Councilman, local business owner, and the youngest on the city council, I know the importance of getting our young people more involved in the community and city government. Our community’s greatest asset is its people, and they’re the future leaders of Hardeman County,” said Williams, who also serves as a Memphis Police Officer in the Public Information Office under Executive Administration.
Mentor members include people from all different professions including accountants, bankers, event planners, small business owners, teachers, students, and many more. Some of the planned events include face-to-face meetings, discussions about setting and tracking goals, and attending networking events featuring business and political leaders. Williams already has goals for the HCYP for the next year.
“We want to have two successful community events and have a committed/confirmed membership of at least 10 by next year,” said Williams. “The HCYP will hold a minimum of six events each year, along with one major fundraiser where proceeds will be donated to a charity or non-profit organization determined by the officers.”
HCYP membership is free. The only requirement for young professionals to meet is to complete a minimum of 25 community service hours each year. Those hours can be earned through events or general community service through the organization.
The mission of the Hardeman County Young Professionals is to engage, educate, and elevate young professionals by offering diverse opportunities for networking, professional development, and community involvement.
You may learn more about the HCYP by contacting Chris Williams at (731) 610-6236 or Vickie Walton at the Hardeman County Chamber of Commerce at (731) 658-6554.
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