By: Deborah Johnson Wood
Leadership Grand Rapids (LGR) is launching a new program that will introduce young professionals who are new to the area to the vibrant arts, cultural, social, and entertainment venues in the city, and familiarize them with downtown living options, volunteer opportunities, and social and professional peer networking opportunities.
Corporations have orientation programs to immerse newcomers in the corporate culture. Download GR complements that orientation by highlighting aspects of the community those employees might have difficulty finding on their own, like great places to live and organizations they may want to be involved in.
"We hope the participants make stronger social and professional connections that will help them feel connected to the community," says Kevin Stotts, executive director of LGR. "We want to make them aware of just how great a community this is. There are a tremendous variety of opportunities for them here."
The group will visit places like the Van Andel Arena and Icon on Bond, and established young professionals in each location will lead the tours and provide information.
"This will introduce the participants to young professionals already engaged in the community, and show participants there's a place at the table for them, too," Stotts says.
Stotts sees the program as a retention tool for the companies hiring the young professionals. Many companies have already registered their new recruits for the inaugural program planned for October 19.
Persons interested in attending Download GR must register by October 12. The program is limited to 50 participants; so far, 40 have registered. Click here for more information.
Source: Kevin Stotts, Leadership Grand Rapids
Deborah Johnson Wood is development news editor for Rapid Growth. She can be contacted at [email protected].
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