20 Years of YPN
To YPs & Employers: Why Get Involved?

YPN South Bend is the go-to network for young professionals (YPs), ages 21–39, who want to make meaningful connections, grow their careers and help shape the future of the South Bend Region. Powered by the Chamber, we’ve been developing, connecting and empowering the next generation of leaders, creators and changemakers for the last 20 years. YPN is that space where YPs new to the area or locals wanting to plug in meet other YPs, get inspired and make their mark on the community.

“YPN helps young professionals build meaningful relationships that foster a sense of belonging. The stronger their connections, the more invested they become in the community—and the more likely they are to stay. For employers, this means increased retention and a more engaged, connected workforce,” said Cara Grabowski, who led YPN for nearly seven years while at the Chamber.

Now employed at the City of South Bend as director of marketing for Public Works, Grabowski has some advice for YPs who may be hesitant to get engaged. “Start by showing up consistently. The more you attend YPN events, the more familiar faces you'll see and the more comfortable you'll feel. Make it a goal to talk to at least one new person at each event. Building connections takes time, but consistency and genuine conversations are key to making the most of YPN.”

Amanda McCord, partner development officer with Centier Bank, served as a volunteer with YPN for over five years and echoes many of Grabowski’s sentiments, “For YPs, don’t hesitate to show up to a YPN event. You’ll meet people you might never have crossed paths with otherwise, explore new venues and businesses, and build connections that will grow alongside you—both professionally and personally.

“I truly believe that YPN played a major role in my career success. When I first started attending YPN events, I was extremely shy—an obstacle, considering I wanted to become a branch manager, a role that required networking, sales calls and building relationships. My manager encouraged me to attend a YPN event, saying it would help me grow. At my first event, I stood in the corner, unsure of how to jump in until someone kindly approached me and started a conversation. That small moment made a huge impact. I realized most of the YPs there were in the same boat: early in their careers, eager to grow and looking for connection. I made a promise to myself that night: I would attend every YPN event I could for the next six months. What I gained in that time went far beyond networking skills. I discovered a deep appreciation for the city I once swore I’d never return to—let alone stay in. I found mentors, lifelong friends and most importantly, the confidence to step out of my comfort zone,” said McCord.

“That experience helped me grow from an assistant manager into a branch manager, then into a community development role, and ultimately into the position I hold today. YPN didn’t just help me network—it helped me transform,” added McCord.

“After about eight months of attending YPN events, I took a leap and went to a Chamber event on my own—something I never would have done before. And that one step led me to an entirely new circle of support. That group helped me continue growing in my career. The connections I made led to new opportunities to build my book of business, get in front of key decision-makers and attend events I never would have considered in the past. It even opened doors to serve on boards I was passionate about—opportunities I wouldn’t have had without stepping out of my comfort zone,” said McCord. “Now, I know that my network is strong and built on genuine support. If I’m trying to connect with a business where I don’t have a contact, I can reach out to my YPN and Chamber community. Nine times out of 10, someone can make a warm introduction.”

Grabowski summed up the lasting impact of YPN. “Watching YPN grow over the years was incredibly fulfilling. We expanded programming to include everything from casual social events like YP@5s to executive engagement through Executive Conversations. The response from YPs was remarkable. Our happy hours regularly drew over 75 attendees. Executive Conversations filled up. Our events were continually getting bigger and bigger. The momentum was real and it showed how much the network mattered to YPs.”

What Employers Can Do

The Chamber asks employers to support their young professionals by giving them the time and encouragement to engage with YPN South Bend and participate in programming. As you can see from the experiences Grabowski and McCord had, your support plays a vital role in helping them build connections, grow as leaders and find their place in the community. Consider making YPN South Bend a part of your onboarding process to ensure new team members feel welcomed and empowered from day one. Our Experience Manager | YPN Lead, Jacee Wesolowski and Ambassador volunteers are happy to visit your organization and share how YPN can benefit your staff.