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Salem Chamber launches Salem Area Young Professionals

Take one look at Salem's age demographics and the picture is clear. The Salem area has a significant deficit of 20- and 30-somethings. Based on overall population, Salem has 7% fewer 18- to 34-year-olds than Eugene, and 11% fewer 25- to 34-year-olds than Portland.

Salem residents in their 20's and 30's often underestimate the number of activities, restaurants and shopping opportunities that exist in Salem. As a result, many choose to live in cities with night-life related businesses in a more consolidated area.

Now, downtown Salem is beginning to bustle. Economic prospects are excellent, as Oregon's second largest city positions itself as the state's most promising job-growth area.  

Fast forward to the year 2005: The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce announces the launch of the Salem Area Young Professionals, and is mobilizing hundreds of volunteers to create and implement a strategy to retain emerging young professionals and attract new professionals to the region.

As part of the Chamber's economic development plan, Salem Area Young Professionals will assist the Salem business community as cities across the nation are facing an impending workforce shortage. For every two baby boomers retiring from the workforce, only one young person is entering.

Studies report that young professionals first choose a place to live and then find a job. Salem Area Young Professionals will capitalize on Salem's great quality of life and establish the message that Salem is a choice destination city for young professionals. 

"Salem's quality of life makes it a great place to live, and a great place to start your career," said Tom Hoffert, Past Chair of Salem Area Young Professionals and Sales Manager for Don Pancho Authentic Mexican Foods. "Young professionals want a place to connect with each other, and they want a voice in Salem's future. We're going to make sure they have a seat at the table."

A Leadership Team has been established with representatives from diverse professions and backgrounds in order to serve as all Salem Area Young Professionals. Event participants are not required to be members of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, however all members of the Leadership Team are.

"The impact of this program on Salem's future will be tremendous," said the Chamber's Jason Brandt, who is, himself, part of the target audience for the organization.  "We're excited to give people the opportunity to contribute to Salem's future, and to make a name for themselves at the same time."

Brandt returned to his hometown of Salem to begin his career after graduating from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington in 2004. He also will serve as the lead staff on the program.

"This Chamber has always been proactive on issues related to improving our economy and promoting the community," said Mike McLaran, CEO of the Salem Chamber. "Salem Area Young Professionals will provide networking and service opportunities to an incredibly important segment of our community."