TARRYTOWN—The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors has re-launched its Young Professionals Network group for 2020, following a two-year hiatus. YPN, which was originally established by the National Association of Realtors in 2006, is tasked with helping the younger generation of Realtors build a stronger link with the real estate industry and expand networking and business opportunities.
“When we surveyed our membership last year for our new Strategic Planning process, one of the surprising things we learned is how many younger agents are entering the business—some even choosing real estate as a first career,” explained HGAR President Gail Fattizzi. “Working with some of them myself, I understand how much they are looking for a support network, and trying to figure out how to engage and get involved in the industry on a higher level.”
Fattizzi tapped Richard Herska, HGAR’s Regional Director for Rockland County, to chair the newly re-launched group, which held its 2020 Kickoff Networking event at Bistro Z at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown on Feb. 5. “I’m also a member of the association’s new engagement task force so my goal is to help provide networking and education for all of our new members—and anyone who would like to be more involved,” said Herska.
Other events for the year will include happy hour mixers in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, and Orange counties, as well as the Bronx. In addition, YPN will work with HGAR’s Education Council to offer interesting panel discussions and workshops to help agents with their businesses. “We want our new members—and even our seasoned members—to know that the door is always open to you at YPN,” added Herska.
He also plans to get YPN involved with community service, and looks forward to working with the Hudson Gateway Realtor Foundation to participate in more volunteer efforts.
“Jen Stevenson, our NYSAR President, has chosen ‘community service’ as her theme for 2020,” explained Herska. “I think it’s so important that we Realtors also give back to the local communities.”
YPN events will be posted on HGAR.com and all are welcome to attend. Their motto is “Young in age, young in the business and young at heart.”