On January 17, Impact CB Young Professionals will host their annual membership drive and kickoff event.
The Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce program serves to connect young leaders while promoting the community and building relationships.
“The stronger the network and number of young professionals in our community, the better the outlook on Council Bluffs’ future,” says Melissa Peterson, an Impact CB board member. “We need to develop the next generation of leaders and encourage them to create strong connections early in their careers.”
Impact CB President Jamie Lincoln shared that there have been over 110 active members of the program in recent years.
Alicia Frieze, director of sales at the Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been involved with Impact CB for the last three years. Since joining, she has seen the benefits unfold, growing her network and learning more about other industries.
“Impact CB is unlike any other networking group,” Frieze says. “Impact CB is a fun group that will help you grow personally and professionally.”
Freize points out that with Impact CB there aren’t monthly meetings or required attendance for membership. Instead, the group meets when there are scheduled networking events or to volunteer at community events.
Shortly after moving to the area five years ago, Peterson joined Impact CB to meet more people in Council Bluffs.
“Attending the networking events pushes you to be more outgoing and open to new friends,” Peterson says. “I’ve met a lot of great people and greatly expanded my network.”
Peterson joined Impact CB’s board of directors early last year, becoming more involved in the program’s offerings.
“I know we are all looking forward to a great year of programming and events,” Peterson says.
Impact CB Young Professionals’ kickoff event begins at 5:30 p.m. at Thunderbowl on January 17. Attendees will be able to purchase a 2019 annual membership at the event for $30 while enjoying free beer, pizza, bowling, and networking with other young professionals.
Peterson encourages newcomers to look for Impact CB board members (wearing distinguishing name badges) at the event who can answer questions and connect them with other young professionals. “Anyone who is looking to increase their network, make new friends, or learn more about Council Bluffs, should join us!”
