The Bismarck Mandan Young Professionals Network (YPN) recently presented a $3,075 donation to its 2017-18 Non-Profit Partner Tracy’s Sanctuary House. The donation represents the amount raised by YPN for Tracy’s Sanctuary House since October 2017 when it was selected as Non-Profit Partner.

“It’s an honor for YPN to present this check to Tracy’s Sanctuary House, an organization that has afforded so many families the opportunity to stay close to their loved ones in times of tremendous need,” said Amber Ruzicka, YPN president. “I also want to acknowledge and thank our YPN members whose incredible generosity made this possible.”

Tracy’s Sanctuary House serves as a refuge for out-of-town families whose loved ones are being treated for a life-threatening condition in a Bismarck hospital. The organization has served more than 3,000 families since opening its doors in 2005. Further information can be found at www.tracyssanctuary.com.

In addition to receiving funds raised at a trio of annual YPN events – holiday party, Chill N’ Bowl, and Cinco – Non-Profit Partners also gain valuable exposure to more than 1,000 YPN members through features and mentions in the YPN’s weekly newsletter, website, and social media. YPN’s Service Team also arranges Non-Profit Partner volunteer events, giving members the opportunity to further experience a Non-Profit Partner’s mission.

“From coordinating volunteers for events to helping with yardwork in the spring, our members have performed all sorts of tasks for Non-Profit Partners we’ve had over the years,” said Ruzicka.

“YPN exists to help young professionals develop valuable workplace skills so they can confidently pursue their career goals. An integral piece in this development is understanding the importance of giving back to their community.”

Since the inception of its Non-Profit Partnership program in 2014, YPN has donated over $10,000 to five non-profit organizations in the Bismarck-Mandan community. Additionally, from May 2016-April 2017, YPN members logged 478 volunteer hours with area non-profits, a number Ruzicka said they will likely surpass in the upcoming year.

“Volunteering is a big component of the YPN’s Strategic Plan and is a great opportunity to connect our members with the non-profit community,” she said.

New Non-Profit Partners are announced in October each year following an open call for nominations in early fall. During this time, nomination forms are available on www.ypnetwork.org. Eligible organizations must be nominated by a current YPN member, be a registered 401(c)3 non-profit, and be based in Bismarck or Mandan.