Up To The Challenge

http://www.insightonbusiness.com/UploadData/thumb_a953677c-b94c-44e5-89a9-881de3d55b07.jpg

Some people really know how to mix business and fun.

More than 50 Young Professionals of Fond du Lac members and community participants took over downtown Fond du Lac on a recent Thursday evening as they competed in the annual YPF Amazing Race.

The evening was designed to mimic the popular Sunday night television show. Four-person teams – identified by their colored T-shirts – took off from JR’s Sports Bar & Grill in Fond du Lac at 4:30 p.m., decoding clues and participating in roadblocks. Contestants identified and then ran to each of the 11 participating businesses, where a challenge waited for them.

“The businesses were in charge of coming up with their own activities as far as what they wanted the teams do,” says Kay Schmitz, YPF Amazing Race organizer.

Challenges included a mini obstacle course set up by the YMCA and a shirt-folding contest at Hopper’s Silkscreening and All Star Trophy. Race participant Anne Killian says locating and stickering wine bottles at Cujak’s Wine Market was one of her memorable stops.

Once the teams completed the 11 business and two roadblock challenges they raced back to JR’s Sports Bar & Grill for their final test. A word search of the businesses visited brought a “Survivor” reality series twist to the end of the event.

“Each team had a different route so the event required a great deal of coordination,” says Tim Rice, Amazing Race committee chair.

In some cases, participants assembled their own race team; others were paired with individuals, opening up the possibility to make a new acquaintance. Social time before and after the event gave racers plenty of time to mingle.

“We try to build in some type of networking opportunity in whatever we do. This was a very relaxed way to get people together and have fun,” says Katie Leist, director of communications for the Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce.

The first group was done in an hour and a half; the last team completed the course within two hours. The prize – bragging rights and a $25 Association of Commerce gift certificate – was awarded to each member of the winning team.

“It was a great opportunity to acclimate yourself to the downtown Fond du Lac community. Through the group challenges I had the opportunity to get a sneak peek of the businesses and network along the way,” Killian adds.

YPF is a division of the Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce. The group was established in 2004 when a group of 12 young professionals saw a need for networking among like-minded individuals. The organization sponsors an event at least once a month for members to network, to enhance their professional development or to learn about the businesses within the Fond du Lac community.

They host events that are tailored to meet the professional and social needs of YPF members. Presentations include topics such as work life balance, leadership and communication. Social events include golf outings, wine and cheese tastings and watching local sport teams.

YPF has nearly 200 members. While membership is targeted at individuals ages 21 to 40, they also welcome those young at heart. “Anyone interested in making connections is welcome to get involved. We have a diverse group of professionals from a variety of backgrounds,” Rice says.
Being new to the community, Schmitz joined YPF to meet people that live or work in Fond du Lac. “I’d encourage everyone to try it. It is a fun way to learn about the community while you network,” she said.

“I’ve been able to meet a very positive and professional group of people,” Killian adds. “I really feel YPF is a valuable asset to our city.”