Our History
In May 2002, two Erie natives, Julie Krumpe Groenendaal and Keith Overfield, co-founded Young Erie Professionals, also known as YEP. Julie and Keith established the organization because many of their peers departed the region in search of better career opportunities and more vibrant cities. Julie and Keith were determined to retain young professionals to the Erie area. Their goal was to create an organization dedicated to providing its members with the opportunity to network professionally with career-minded peers, while actively participating in their community.
Today, YEP is comprised of young professionals over the age of 18 years old from the greater Erie County area, of varying disciplines but singular purpose — forming community and contributing to the future of Erie. By investing in ourselves today, we are investing in our tomorrow — a tomorrow both longtime and prospective residents can be proud of.
