The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber’s NextGen young professionals program is giving back to the Benton Harbor community.
The inaugural event held on July 26, was a community clean up, with volunteers working together to beautify local parks and streets. Membership engagement manager of the chamber Jasmine Hansen said these experiences they endure result in business collaborations, mentorships, and career growth.
“Being able to give back to the Southwest Michigan Regional area is huge for us, and we hope and look forward to being able to do more trash pickups in other entities or other counties as well,” Hansen said.
In its first year back since the pandemic, NextGen young professionals helps emerging leaders build a strong professional network and make connections that may lead to new businesses collaborations, mentorships, or future career endeavors.
Individuals between the ages of 21 and 40 can get involved with community events such as this, and Hansen said they want to expand the idea there is a community supporting the younger generation.
“We just want the community to know, especially young professionals, that there are other young professionals in the area, and it’s not just an older generation or a tourist community, and to know that there’s a community supporting them. So come out, come hang out with us, give back to the community that you live in, and make it this beautiful place.”
The group is looking to have more give back events and partner with other organizations withing Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Those interested in joining the NextGen group or wanting to partner with the program, contact Hansen.
