Each month, the Columbus Chamber spotlights a local young professional or professional organization to showcase what they offer, how to get involved and when to check out their next event. For the month of November, Operation YP is featured.
When and why was Operation YP founded?
After the first year of Operation Feed’s Kitchen Cabinet steering committee in 2009, younger members of the group saw an opportunity for enhanced young professional engagement. During a wrap-up meeting, they determined that a more hands-on way to support Operation Feed was needed. They also saw a way to engage friends and professional connections in the fight against hunger, while contributing to Mid-Ohio Foodbank’s annual community-wide drive. They acted, pulling together a core group of supporters to join them, and Operation YP was born.
Why become a member?
Apart from feeding families in need and building awareness of hunger in our community, committee members have opportunities to develop leadership and project management skills, network with community leaders, and partner with peers from a variety of professional backgrounds. Being involved with Operation YP is also fun! Meetings often are held casually over lunch or happy hour, giving members the chance to socialize and build friendships outside of their usual circles.
What are some successes or cool facts about Operation YP?
Since getting started in 2010, Operation YP has executed three unique events. The first, “Dinner on a Dime,” included a mixer and cooking demonstration utilizing ingredients that a family might receive from a food pantry. This was followed by a more educationally-focused program, “The 2010 Hunger Summit,” which brought together leaders of various social service agencies for a community conversation about hunger in Central Ohio. Most recently, the group presented “Dinner on Dime: Local Foods Edition,” which put a fresh spin on the cooking demonstration by teaming up with fellow nonprofit organization Local Matters.
As a result of these efforts, over 2,500 meals have been raised for local families in need, in addition to more awareness of Operation Feed and the issue of hunger. The group itself has also expanded significantly. What began as the idea of three steering committee members has grown to an active committee of nearly 20 individuals, all leveraging unique skills and talents to support the cause.
Tell me about your upcoming events.
After wrapping up “Dinner on a Dime: Local Foods Edition” in September, Operation YP is evaluating options for its next event. One idea includes coordinating a panel discussion or educational program to kick-off of the 2012 Operation Feed Campaign. This would bring together representatives from hundreds of local businesses, schools, professional organizations, and civic groups that participate in the Foodbank’s annual community-wide drive set to begin in March.
Apart from Operation YP, getting involved with the Operation Feed drive is a great way for any young professional to gain exposure and make a very meaningful contribution, either by asking company leaders to join the campaign or by stepping up to lead the effort inside their organization. For more information, visit our website.
How do I become a member?
Becoming a member is as easy as expressing interest in the cause and determining what you’d like to contribute. The group meets on an as-needed basis—either in person or via phone—both to socialize and to coordinate event tasks. New ideas, skills and perspectives are always welcomed!
Where can I go to learn more about Operation YP?
For more information about getting involved with the group, please contact Operation Feed Campaign Manager and staff liaison Andrew Murphy at amurphy@midohiofoodbank.org. You can also visit our website to read more about past events and current group members.
To learn about more than 60 other local YP and professional organizations, view the Columbus Chamber's directory of YP and professional organizations.
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