The Past, Present and Future of SYP
Three years ago the former Bennington Young Professionals group began working with the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce to develop a new look and strategy. A new logo and website launched, a new mission statement gave a new purpose and vision and goals were shared.
A change of leadership and efforts to redefine the group presented the perfect opportunity for the Chamber to partner and help support the group, now called Shires Young Professionals. Along the way, the Northshire Young Professionals also merged.
The Chamber and “SYP” agreed that to create a more structured and strategic investment in the region’s young professionals, the young professional group should move under the leadership and umbrella of the the Commerce and consolidate efforts to create a group of engaged and committed young professionals in the region. This partnership provided more consistency and resources, offset duplicated efforts and provided the Chamber with a source for their ‘Pathway to Leadership’ strategic goal.
The purpose of the Shires Young Professionals is to engage and empower young professionals in the community, helping them to emerge in their professions. Our vision is to help young professionals in the area create deep roots in our community that encourage them to stay and build a prosperous life in The Shires of Southwestern Vermont.
Over the years, this partnership has grown to provide advocacy programs and efforts that are close to young Vermonters like daycare, broadband, and workforce development. The SYP has been a strong force when it comes to recruitment and retention efforts of the chamber as well, encouraging new young Vermonters to try out and move to Vermont. SYP members are consistently at and involved in the State’s Stay To Stay program and Vermont Welcome Wagon Project through the Chamber. Additionally, SYPers have led volunteer groups at Summer and Winter Homebrew events and the nationally recognized Garlic Festival on Labor Day Weekend.
As we look at the future of the SYP, there is a focus on:
Eliminating all types of borders and boundaries that have prevailed in the region for 240 years.
Growing the culture of the young professionals and Vermonters throughout the region; helping to modernize this rural, aging state.
Creating a case for more change within our region that will provide a positive impact for all current and future Vermonters including a sense of welcomeness, diversity and inclusion.
We hope you join us for the ride!
Learn more: https://www.shiresyp.com/about-us
