History
In the summer of 2006, 4 local young professionals in the city of Pella were asked to start a group to focus on social networking in the community for the age range 20s-30s. This came about after a community survey revealed the need for activities for young adults in the work force that didn’t focus specifically on families. Since then, our group has grown rapidly! Some of our most popular summer events have had attendance of over 50 people!
Who is a Young Professional?
Sometimes our name can conjure up images of business people in slacks or dresses, of lawyers and doctors and salespeople working 9-5 jobs. But to us, a young professional is anyone living or working in or around Pella. Young professionals are welders, teachers, engineers, construction workers, technicians, nurses, assistants, office workers, stay-at-home parents, and everything in between. Young Professionals are full-time, part-time, temp workers, interns, and those still looking for employment. The truth is, whoever you are, we’d love get to know you!
Monthly Social Events
Young Professionals strives to host one social event per month. These events usually take place at a local business and focus on socializing and meeting new people. Examples of past events include a Murder Mystery at Main Street Mark’t, a cookout at North Overlook beach, a Mixology class at Butcher’s Brewhuis, a friendly kickball game out at Pella Sports park, and much more!
Events are usually quite varied — some events are more of a laid back social hour, while others involve being active outdoors! Come out and joins us! We try our best to make every event fun and inviting for all people!
Also, while our social events sometimes involve alcohol, we maintain a calm and welcoming atmosphere, and the venue hosts almost always have non-alcoholic options available.
Quarterly Lunch & Learns
Young Professionals also strives to host four lunch & learn events per year, roughly one per quarter. These events are a little more educational and food is usually provided. These often take place over the lunch hour, but every now and then they have to take place at a different time. (Dine & Discover? Breakfast and Browse?)
Lunch & Learns are tailored to the needs of young professionals, focusing on the services or advise that might be meaningful to someone who might be living on their own for the first time. Examples of past events include “Home Buying 101” with Pella Read Estate Services, a resume workshop with local employers, a volunteer opportunity panel with local nonprofits, and much more! Other lunch and learns have involved a coffee cupping with Iris Coffee and a tour of Neil Smith Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City.