There is a group of young people in Durango who talk about “plugging in” and “connecting.” They do not work for La Plata Electric, but they do emanate a great deal of energy, especially as they describe their association with the
“YPODs,” as they are known, are as attracted to the group’s mission, “to connect, empower and engage young professionals,” as they are to one another. In other members, YPODs recognize they experience the same challenges of living in Durango and getting started professionally, whether they grew up here or just moved to town; whether they are entrepreneurs, new business owners or employees.
There is a strong support system in place for the 180 members, aged 20-39, who hail from the dining, real estate, finance, and nonprofit fields. To date, the YPOD experience has been shared, as their mission states, “by providing educational, social and philanthropic activities that include community and civic involvement to help actively shape the future of Durango.”
Taking part in their own development and that of their community are inseparable aspirations for YPODs. The 11-member “working” board of directors meets monthly to plan the group’s yearlong activities that wrapped up last weekend with their annual holiday party. They will kick off the New Year on Jan. 10 with their monthly “Lunches with Leaders” featuring Dave Thibodeau, co-founder of SKA Brewing Co. and Peach Street Distillers.
In February, the group will host a first annual night skiing social at Hesperus. March marks the Leadership La Plata mentorship kick-off party where interested YPODs are paired up with LLP participants, also established community leaders, to help younger leaders succeed.
Paying it forward, interested YPODs participate in a semester-long program mentoring Fort Lewis College seniors. YPOD community service takes place in June and July with members volunteering on a Habitat for Humanity home build and Animas River cleanup.
Young, smart and ambitious, this group is one to watch. Visit them on Facebook and the Chamber’s website for more information, or to join.
