Breaking News - Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation

Local Organization gives Young Professionals Networking Opportunities

Jun. 3rd, 2010
Darin Fenger

Yuma is a great place for young professionals to live, work — and network. That's the nutshell message of NexGen, a Yuma group that brings young professionals together to build valuable connections, encourage civic involvement and underscore the fact that Yuma really does offer rich opportunities for professionals on the rise. Organizers say NexGen's vision reaches far beyond networking. People are being empowered and a community's potential realized. “Imagine the power of a young professional's first impression of Yuma being a place with a lot going, with an organized group of similar people making a difference in the community,” said Matt Molenar, NexGen president. “I am very proud of our community, and if we can help eliminate some of the negative stereotypes we have had in the past, that is extremely worthwhile.” Membership is generally open to men and women ages 25-40, but Molenar said there really isn't a strict age limit. NexGen began in 2008 as the brainchild of Chris Camacho, who was then employed with the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corp. At that time Camacho's office was located next to MGM Design, owned by Molenar. “He and I had been brainstorming the group since 2005,” Molenar said. NexGen started out with 30 members attending an exploratory meeting. The group's goal for the second year was to double membership, which currently stands at 63 members. “Our goal is the attraction and retention of young professionals. And that breaks down into three more specific goals. First, by accomplishing that goal, there are one-on-one relationships that form both socially and professionally,” Molenar said. “Secondly, local businesses and organizations benefit from people who stay longer, supported by this network of people they can relate to. And, third, it benefits our community by having a more diverse and younger population that naturally creates more events geared toward a younger, year-round population.” NexGen doesn't belong to a state or national organization, but has been inspired by similar groups in other areas. “We continually look at and even reach out to other young professional groups in other cities to get ideas on the type of events to put on and what is and is not successful,” Molenar said. “We were specifically formed to fill the void of a group focused on this demographic. If we can attract and retain more young professionals it will create a stronger and move diverse community over the long term.” Annual dues are $100. “We are looking for any young professionals who want to participate with a positive attitude, who are willing to work to make a difference in the community and have fun while doing it.” That fun typically comes in three forms: professional development meetings, First Friday social events and community service events. “We hold professional development meetings with networking time, update the group with NexGen business, brainstorm future events and then finish with a guest speaker,” Molenar said. “First Fridays are our social events focused on networking over happy hour on the first Friday of every month. This moves to a new location every month.” For its community service outreach, over the past year NexGen donated $2,500 to the Territorial Prison campaign, $1,600 to Relay for Life, $1,000 to Yuma Community Food Bank and $1,000 to Crossroads Mission. NexGen also participates in the Drive for School Supplies. “So, if someone needs help for a cause that relates to our group, we can help raise money or bring in volunteers,” Molenar said. “Or, if a business has a new recruit, they can call on NexGen to show them around or to meet new people so they are more comfortable about moving and staying here.” For more information on the group, go to www.NexGenYuma.com.

Darin Fenger
Features Editor
The Sun
Jun. 3rd, 2010

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