In the KNOW!

January 26, 2026

Why Young Professionals Matter and Why Your Organization Should Engage

Strong communities don’t happen by accident. They grow when emerging leaders are connected, supported, and encouraged to get involved. That’s the purpose behind Pottawatomie County Young Professionals, a group of individuals ages 18–40 focused on personal growth, professional development, and making a meaningful local impact.

The group exists to create connections across industries and provide opportunities that help young professionals grow in their careers while staying engaged in Pottawatomie County. Everything they do is guided by four pillars: building relationships, developing professional skills, serving the community, and fostering mentorship.

For employers, encouraging participation is more than a nice extra. It’s a smart investment in your workforce. Employees who build confidence, communication skills, and broader networks bring those strengths back to their organizations. Supporting involvement also sends a clear message that your company values leadership development and community engagement.

For young professionals, the group offers a place to connect beyond the workplace, learn from others, and gain perspective through mentorship and shared experiences.

The group meets monthly on the first Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., rotating locations among local businesses and organizations. Company leaders are encouraged to share this opportunity with their teams, and young professionals can stay informed by subscribing to the email list or checking the events calendar on our website.

Getting involved helps develop future leaders while strengthening our community.

-Daniel

Director, Chamber of Commerce

Join the PCYP Mailing List

QUICK CLICK QUESTION

What factor is most influencing your business decisions right now?

Customer demand and sales trends

Labor availability and workforce costs

Rising operating costs (supplies, insurance, utilities)

Economic uncertainty or market conditions

Preparing for the rest of the year

STAND UP RURAL AMERICA REGIONAL FORUM

Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum

Shawnee Forward will host a national conversation on rural economic development this February as the Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum comes to town on February 24–25, 2026. The two-day forum will take place at the Grand Casino Hotel & Resort and is designed specifically for rural communities looking for practical, proven strategies to grow and thrive.

Attendees will hear from nationally recognized speakers and practitioners who work directly with rural cities, counties, and regions across the country. Topics will include economic development strategy, downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, tourism, business growth, logistics, regional collaboration, childcare solutions, youth and career development, and the use of advanced technology tools.

Featured speakers include Doug Griffiths, author of 13 Ways to Kill Your Community; Steve Brown, author of The Golden Toilet; Lorie Vincent, author of Stand Up Rural America; Jon Schallert; and Sherri Johnston, along with many other rural leaders and subject-matter experts.

The forum is built for people doing the work. Participants will walk away with real tools, case studies, and ideas they can apply immediately in their communities. Sessions will blend presentations, panel discussions, and networking while celebrating what makes Rural America unique.

The forum is intended for economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, cities, counties, state agencies, downtown and Main Street programs, utilities, lenders, regional groups, and community and industry leaders.

Sponsorships and exhibitor opportunities are available, and registration is now open.

Learn more and register at below.

Learn More and Register

Secure Your Sponsorship

UPCOMING SHAWNEE FORWARD EVENTS

2026 Legislative Luncheons

Due to the recent winter storm, the 2026 Legislative Luncheon Series will now begin with a pre-session luncheon this Friday, January 30. If you haven’t registered yet, there is still time, and we hope to see you this Friday.

This luncheon offers a valuable opportunity to engage with legislators before the legislative session begins. Additional luncheons will take place throughout the session, giving attendees a firsthand look at what’s unfolding at the Capitol and how it may affect our region.

Legislative Luncheons provide a practical way to stay informed, ask thoughtful questions, and connect with others invested in the future of our community.

Connect with our local legislators and take part in meaningful conversations that impact your business and our community through this four-part series. These gatherings bring business leaders and community stakeholders together to discuss priorities, raise concerns, and strengthen our collective voice.

Chamber members attend free. Non-members are welcome to attend for $25. Lunch is provided, and registration is required.

Reserve your seat and join the conversation.

Reserve Your Seat

Ambassadors Committee Interest Meeting

Shawnee Forward’s Chamber Ambassadors are volunteers who help strengthen our business community by supporting Chamber members, welcoming new businesses, assisting with ribbon cuttings and grand openings, and attending Chamber events. Ambassadors also help communicate member feedback and share information about Chamber resources.

February's Ambassador meeting will be an informational session for those who have served previously and individuals interested in learning more about the committee, expectations, and level of commitment. Ambassadors typically meet on the first Wednesday of each month.

If you are interested in learning more, we invite you to join us on Feb 4th.

Wednesday, February 4th

9:00 AM

Shawnee Public Library

Learn More About the Ambassadors

Your network grows when you show up! The Social Exchange gives you two chances every month to connect with other chamber members, share what you do, and build relationships that actually matter. Whether it’s a before-hours or after-hours, you’ll leave with new contacts and fresh energy. And it’s free for members.

Let Us Know You Are Coming!

2026-2027

SHAWNEE FORWARD BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BUSINESS RESOURCES

AI For Small Businesses: Strategies That Drive Growth

Small businesses are discovering what Fortune 500 companies learned just a few years ago: AI isn't just for tech giants with massive budgets.

With 40% of small businesses already using generative AI—nearly double from the previous year—the competitive landscape has shifted. The businesses thriving today aren't necessarily those with the most resources, but those leveraging AI to work smarter, not harder.

For small business owners, the question isn't whether to adopt AI, but which practical applications will deliver the fastest ROI.

Read the full article here

MEMBER EVENTS

Click on each image to learn more.

Upcoming Blood Drive Opportunities

Our Blood Institute has several upcoming blood drives in our community, giving you an easy way to make a real difference close to home. Click the link to see upcoming dates, locations, and to register for a time that works for you.

1/28 & 1/29: OBU:

https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/674701

1/30: Georg Fischer:

https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/674711

1/30: Shawnee Care Center:

https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/685481

1/30: Higginbotham White's Ace:

https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/685507

Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?

If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!

Miss a Newsletter?

If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.

Thank you, ShawneeCTV, for your generous sponsorship of our newsletter, "In the Know". Your support enables us to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest updates and events.

Shawnee Forward | 405-273-6092