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Connect, Impact, and Grow with Young Professionals of Decatur

By: Cheyenne Sanchez, President & Co-Founder of Young Professionals of Decatur

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Being a young professional in Decatur, Alabama, is more than just building a career — it’s about building a life, a community, and a future. That’s exactly what Young Professionals of Decatur (YP Decatur) was founded to do.

In 2021, a group of passionate young adults — from all walks of life, backgrounds, and stages — came together with a shared vision: to create a space where young professionals could connect, impact, and grow. Whether single or married, new to Decatur or lifelong locals, we all shared one thing in common — a desire to make a difference in the place we call home.

Since our founding, YP Decatur has hosted at least one event every month for the past four years, creating a network of more than 300 young professionals from Decatur and the surrounding areas. Our events range from themed bingo nights and local restaurant takeovers to professional growth seminars and leadership workshops. We’re intentional about partnering with local businesses to support the local economy and highlight the incredible talent and entrepreneurship that make Decatur special.

But YP Decatur is more than just fun events — it’s a movement of impact. We believe in rolling up our sleeves and getting involved. Through our Impact Projects, we partner with other community organizations to serve, volunteer, and bring big ideas to life. We also invest in our members through personal and professional development, offering leadership training, interview prep, and mentorship opportunities that help young professionals grow in every area of their lives.

Being a young professional in a smaller city like Decatur is something to celebrate. It means being part of a new wave of energy, creativity, and innovation that drives progress. Young professionals are buying homes, starting families, growing careers, and giving back — all of which contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of our community. Employers benefit from fresh perspectives, and the city benefits from a generation of leaders who care deeply about Decatur’s future.

YP Decatur has also been given a voice in shaping that future. We’ve been invited to share feedback on new developments, collaborate on city initiatives, and even provide data for potential investors. It’s an incredible opportunity for the next generation to have a seat at the table — and we’re honored to represent the voice of young professionals in Decatur.

Join Us for Friendsgiving — Our Signature Celebration!

Our biggest event of the year is right around the corner! On November 15th, we’ll host our 5th Annual YP Decatur Friendsgiving: A Black-Tie Affair — an elegant evening of gratitude, connection, and celebration.

✨ Evening Highlights:

  • 🦃 Gourmet Thanksgiving-inspired dinner
  • 🎶 Live DJ and dancing
  • 🏆 Recognition of YP Decatur’s accomplishments
  • 🤝 Networking and fellowship with Decatur’s finest young professionals

This annual celebration is also our premier fundraising event, helping us continue our mission to cultivate a thriving, connected, and empowered community of young adults.

A New Tradition: The Decatur Christmas Parade

In true YP spirit, when we saw a need, we stepped up. YP Decatur now proudly organizes the Decatur Christmas Parade — bringing holiday magic, joy, and unity to our city. This will be our second year hosting the parade, and we’re thrilled to continue growing this beloved tradition for years to come.

The Heart of YP Decatur

At its core, YP Decatur is about community — showing up for one another, celebrating successes, and walking through life’s challenges together. Here, you’ll find not only networking opportunities, but friendships that last, mentors who guide you, and peers who cheer you on.

Being a young professional in Decatur is truly a privilege. The future of our city is bright — and it’s being shaped every day by passionate, driven young leaders who are committed to making a difference.

If you’re looking for a place to connect, serve, and grow — YP Decatur is where you belong.

Cheyenne Sanchez

President & Co-Founder of Young Professionals of Decatur

Cheyenne Sanchez is the Coordinator of Physician Recruitment at Decatur Morgan Hospital, President and Co-Founder of Young Professionals of Decatur, a Maxwell Leadership Team Member, and a 2023 Young Professional of the Year award recipient. She is passionate about leadership, community growth, and making an impact in every life she touches. She is dedicated to cultivating a thriving, connected, and inspired community for the next generation of leaders in Decatur.

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