Fostering a young professional workforce between the ages of 21 and 39, the Ashland Alliance Young Professionals Association exists to strengthen the vitality of Ashland and surrounding areas by providing a network of professional development, social opportunity, economic development, and community service programs.
Under the direction of the Ashland Alliance, Paul Craft & Shaun Kiser founded the organization in 2003 to provide young business professionals an outlet to network while fostering social interactions among members. Today YPA has a membership of over 75 members.
From monthly board meetings to member committees, YPA also provides a quarterly luncheon and frequent social events to unite young professionals throughout Boyd and Greenup Counties and a host of other social events to unite Ashland's young workforce.
One of the highlight's of YPA is the annual Back Pack program, in which Back Packs with school supplies and new school clothes are provided to area children in need. In addition, the group fosters professional development and conducts workshops while focusing more on economic issues that directly impact Ashland and surrounding areas. The YPA is seeking opportunities to connect with other young professional organizations across the Tri-State and State of Kentucky.