The Holland Young Professionals was the first YP organization in the Western Michigan area, sparking a trend that continues to grow and evolve. The organization was formed in light of Richard Florida’s book “Rise of the Creative Class” and the organized discussions held by the Holland Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Holland on how to make Holland “cool”.

The founders of HYP, Barry Rice, Mat Nguyen and Robyn Wennersten had been actively involved in the creative class initiatives and saw an opportunity for the young professionals in Holland to form a group and start working together. HYP kicked-off with its first event on December 2, 2003. The group has steadily grown since that time, and now has a network of over 400 members.

Our Mission:

The Mission of the Holland Young Professionals is to lead the effort to develop, establish and promote opportunities for young professionals in West Michigan and enhance the region’s ability to attract and retain young professionals

Our Goals:

• Provide opportunities for young professionals in Holland to meet and interact
• Cultivate and nurture emerging leaders
• Attract and retain young talent in the Holland area
• Organize and encourage community involvement
• Work with existing organizations

HYP Events and Programs

HYP is always looking for new partnerships and opportunities to add to our evergrowing program list. If you have an idea please feel free to contact us and be a part of HYP!

UNWIND

The UNWIND is HYP’s staple event. Held on the second Thursday of each month, the UNWIND provides young professionals the opportunity to kick-back, relax and network in a social environment. UNWIND also offers community-oriented opportunities such as the ‘Power of One’ initiative which helps support Community Action House through donations. This event is a must for all professionals.

Lakeshore E2E

Lakeshore E2E (Entreprenuer to Entreprenuer) is a speaker series held at Lakeshore Advantage’s office in Zeeland. Each event features local entrepreneurs providing real-world insight into starting a business. Time is set aside before and after for attendees to network and view Lakeshore Advantage’s new business incubator / corporate offices.

Past presenters include:
G.W. Haworth, Haworth Inc.
Larry Kooiker, Agritek Industries
Mark Mason, Stone Plastics
Mike Lanser, Innotec Group
Fred Bauer, Gentex Corporation
Jay & Stephanie Frankhouse, Fuel-d

Social Events

Junk Food Scavenger Hunt, Leadership Holland Scholarship Fundraiser, Warm up to Winter, Octoberfest, Group sports, Relay for Life, Annual golf outing, Group outings

HYP Leadership Holland Scholarship

Leadership Holland is a year long program designed to identify potential leaders and develop within these individuals the knowledge, skills and vision necessary to enable them to actively participate in the enhancement of the quality of life in the greater Holland community. For one day a month you’ll join with fellow leaders-in training to learn in-depth and hands-on about vital aspects of the community. Each year HYP offers professionals between 21-35, that actively attend HYP events, a scholarship to participate in Leadership Holland. 

Resources:

Creative Class Website
YP Commons
Grand Rapids Young Professionals
Kalamazoo Young Professionals
Grand Haven Young Professionals
Young Urban Professionals of Muskegon
Holland Area Chamber of Commerce
Lakeshore Advantage