The Barton County Young Professionals organization has several openings that offer the opportunity to get more involved, said Rachel Mawhirter, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce marketing director. BCYP is operated by a committee of volunteers under the auspices of the chamber.
The Steering Committee for the growing networking group has two openings starting in January 2014. The Steering Committee meets on the first Monday of each month at 4 p.m. to plan YP events, make budget decisions, and oversee the vision of the group. Steering Committee members serve two-year terms.
 The Community Impact Team, a subset of the Steering Committee, also has immediate openings for volunteers. This team meets monthly to plan volunteer projects and works between meetings to promote charity events and community happenings.
“Both of these are great ways to be an active part of Young Professionals and make a difference in the community,” Mawhirter said. “And it looks great on your resume.”
Anyone interested in serving on either the committee or team should email bartonyp@gmail.com or contact one of the 2013 Steering Committee members: Kristy Hogan, chair; Candice Moeder, vice chair; Aaron Andrews, treasurer; Christina Hayes; Tina Mingenback; Brandon Steinert; and Amanda Fellers.
The Barton County Young Professionals group is a program designed to foster business and social networking among working individuals in the Barton County area, Mawhirter said. “Anyone who lives in the Barton County area between the ages of 21 and 40(ish) is welcome and encouraged to participate.”
Members participate a variety of monthly events, which rotate between sponsored mixer events, business networking and leadership development luncheons, and social events.
  In addition to the numerous networking opportunities, members also enjoy exclusive perks, such as   Half-price rental of chamber meeting rooms, professional leadership training, discounts and freebies from local businesses and opportunities to give back to the community.
For now, membership is free, Mawhirter said. Dues are being underwritten by a local business.