Getting Involved:
In today's business world, it is not what you know, it is who you know. This is part of what makes the Kankakee Regional Young Professionals organization so vital. It helps build reputations, resumes and connections. It makes sense to get involved - whether it is you as a young professional or the young professionals of your staff.

Events:
KRYP events are held monthly at various Chamber members' businesses. This allows KRYP members to get more involved in the community business environment while still expanding their personal network of connections. As a representative of their employer, the young professional can help build bridges between their employer and other Chamber members as well.

As mentioned, KRYP hosts events at various Chamber member venues. The KRYP Council is always anxious to get more Chamber members involved. If your company is looking to get more interest or is interested in hosting a Young Professionals event, please contact the Chamber at (815) 933-7721.

Vision Statement (what we are working toward):

The Kankakee Regional Young Professionals is comprised of a diverse, connected, involved and prepared reservoir of world-class talent who are prepared to lead, create, innovate and influence as the community evolves.

Mission Statement (what we do):

Attract, develop and retain a talented workforce in the Kankakee Region by connecting, empowering and engaging young professionals.

Areas of Focus (our core programs and services):

• Business & Social Networking
• Professional & Leadership Development
• Community & Civic Involvement

Why We Exist:

Attract a Talented Workforce

There is a looming workforce/talent shortage projected to affect the U.S. beginning in 2010. For every two workers retiring only one new worker will replace them. Also, many communities are suffering from mass exiting of their college graduates and young talent to “creative class communities,” These factors have been referred to as “brain drain” and KRYP is proactively working to decrease this effect in the Kankakee region BEFORE it becomes an issue.

Retain a Talented Workforce

People are more likely to stay in a community when they feel connected and involved. By providing opportunities for young professionals to get involved and feel connected/invested in the community, the Kankakee Region is more likely to retain young talent.

Develop Next-Generation Talent

Leaders are made, not born. KRYP seeks to grow leaders and professionals. By developing the Kankakee River Valley's young talent, YPs will be more capable and interested in taking leadership roles in community, business and government opportunities and fueling the creativity and innovation in our region.

Build Business and Social Connections

The saying, “It’s not who you know, but who knows you,” is a great reminder for YPs to enhance their business and social networks by building relationships. Networking is the number one reason people join YP groups, as well as Chambers of Commerce. By helping YPs build connections they are less likely to move or disengage from their community.

Young professionals like to have fun and are looking for ways to plug into the Kankakee region. If new or existing young people lack a good social/personal life they are more likely to move. Connecting young people to other like-minded professionals on the business and social side will help retain talent in the River Valley.