Find People Who Get You

Young professionals in Akron-Canton can join any number of groups for mixing, mingling and motivation

Greater Akron Chamber’s Young Professional Network
YPN provides its members with opportunities to build relationships with local community, business and government leaders and gives a voice to Akron-area young professionals, 20-40 years old, from all professions. For more information, email ypn@greater akronchamber.org, @grtakronchamber

30 for the Future Awards
Since 2016, this program has recognized stellar individuals from ages 25-39 for their professional accomplishments and community contributions. They are honored an annual event in the fall. greaterakronchamber.org, @grtakronchamber.org

Young Professionals of Akron
This group is open to anyone “young” and growing in their career. YPA members expand their professional and personal networks through social and community events; invest in the community through volunteerism and support of local business; and find new opportunities through the introduction to resources YPA is focused on connecting professionals to each other and the city through community and social events. Visit ypakron.org, @ypakron

Torchbearers Akron
The goal of Torchbearers is to ignite young change-makers to shape Akron and strengthen their connection to local nonprofi t community organizations. Emerging leaders can network, enhance leadership skills and improve the Greater Akron community. torchbearersakron.com, @tb_akron

Akron Urban League Young Professionals
This group, an extension of the Akron Urban League, oers opportunities for emerging leaders ages 21-40 to participate in professional development programs, philanthropy and civic engagement with an emphasis on the minority community. akronurbanleague.org, @akronulup

Emerging Leaders United
Young supporters who value the importance of philanthropy and support the work of United Way Summit & Medina Counties are invited. Annual dues are $50, and members channel their talents to advance the common good while expanding their social and professional networks. uwsummit.org@uwsummitmedina

Young Black Professionals Coalition (YBPC)
A nonprofi t organization, the YBPC focuses on the professional and social development of future leaders, including high school and college students. Workshops, social activities and continuous education are aimed at improving the overall minority community. ybpc.info

yStark
A program of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, yStark offers networking, professional development and civic engagement opportunities for young professionals in Stark County. ystark.org, @ystarkyp 

Twenty Under 40!
Twenty under 40! is the signature event of yStark and recognizes young professionals across the business, civic, arts, education and nonprofi t sectors. Each demonstrates dynamic leadership and social responsibility in the workplaces and community. ystark.org, @ystarkyp

United Way of Greater Stark County Young Leaders Society (YLS)
A group of passionate young professionals 35 and under come together to educate, engage and inspire individuals across Greater Stark County. uwstark.org, @uwstark

Leadership Stark County Spotlight Program
Two Spotlight sessions a year are open to young professionals in their 20s and 30s ready to take their careers to the next level. It’s a great option for employers to cultivate leadership potential in their young employees. Apply online. leadershipstarkcounty.org, @leadershipstarkcounty