“Hand me a towel”
The Ventura Chamber’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) and Ambassadors recently participated in the 4th annual YPG Challenge – a contest in which members compete to collect donations for local non-profits. This year’s “Pillow Fight” challenge directed thousands of linen donations to temporary and transitional housing organizations and crowned YPG as the winning team.
The Young Professionals Group is comprised of members between the ages of 21- 40 who are interested in creating positive changes in self and the community. As part of their commitment to giving back, the YPG challenge was created to encourage friendly competitions between the chamber members in the name of charity.
“The YPG challenge is a great way to give back to our community and bring people together for some fun competition,” said Shelby Bishop, Chair of the Young Professionals Group. “Events like these spice up the efforts and motivate us to make a difference where we live and work.”
Chamber members surveyed local non-profits and determined the most need was for linens in the form of bedding, pillows, pillowcases and towels. Support from various local hoteliers was crucial in the success of the challenge. DKN hotels, parent company of Ventura’s Pierpont Inn, donated thousands of linens and pillows. Comfort Inn Ventura Beach and Crowne Plaza also donated items to the challenge.
Thousands of linen items were collected and delivered to local non-profits including Turning Point Foundation, The City Center, Project Understanding and Tender Life Maternity Home, Ventura Rescue Mission, Salvation Army, Casa Pacifica, Lighthouse for Women and Children, and Family Promise. The linens will be used at these facilities and will be given to families as they exit the programs and transition to permanent housing.
