Over the last few years, the YLNI Board of Directors has taken steps toward providing opportunities for members to be heard.  As different leaders from different classes of the YLNI Board have met with their YP Group colleagues across the country, we have come to recognize the need to voice an opinion for issues that directly relate to our region.  The result of this work is the development of policy addressing how we take a stance on issues.

In early December, the Community Impact Committee began discussing the issues raised by the legislative agenda of the Regional Chamber of Northeast Indiana. Of particular interest was its stance on the proposed Right to Work legislation. The Committee felt it was important that the organization take a strong look at RTW because of its extreme significance to our region and the State of Indiana. Accordingly, the Board approved a legislative policy survey of the network, as well as the non-partisan Right to Work 101 educational forum, which took place on January 10.

The survey results came back 21-8 (4 undecided) in support of RTW. The Committee then discussed the research and findings. Significant was the fact that our regional economic development professionals were unified in their support of RTW and the legislation would promote job growth in the region. Moreover, the purpose of the legislation furthers the ongoing goals of the organization as indicated by the network.

The Right to Work bill might be the most important piece of legislation that our membership will see in its lifetime. YLNI’s volunteers made an effort to thoroughly research the issue, and the Board made a decision to support the legislation. It was not a decision made lightly and not one made based upon politics, party affiliation, or any other factors other than those the Board feels furthers the mission of the organization. The decision was not a unanimous decision, but the decision was one both the Community Impact Committee and a majority of the Board of Directors felt falls in line with data collected two years ago in YLNI’s 2020 Vision Survey.

The survey, conducted of more than 200 young leaders, resulted in a clear mandate for the organization and region. Thirty-six categories in areas such as Quality of Life, Entertainment, Health & Fitness and Job Opportunities, were enumerated in the survey. “Professional Career Opportunities” was ranked the number one area of focus for improvement, reflecting a 39% and 70% increase over the next categories of mass transit and walkability, respectively. YLNI’s demographic comprises more than 1/3 of the workforce, and a large sampling instructed the organization to improve professional career opportunities for our region.

The Fort Wayne Chamber, Regional Chamber, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership and Fort Wayne/Allen County Economic Development Alliance collectively provided testimony to the legislators that Right to Work will give Indiana, and specifically our region, a competitive advantage in business relocation and expansion efforts, resulting in the job growth encouraged by our membership.  Moreover, young workers will be given flexibility that they are not currently afforded.

For these reasons, the Committee provided a unanimous recommendation to the Board to endorse Right to Work.  Whether YLNI’s endorsement influences the vote, the organization should not sit idly by as this important piece of legislation is discussed by our legislators.  Our membership and network have directly influenced the actions of this Board.  The final Board vote was 10-1 (2 abstain) in favor of RTW. The Board’s endorsement is not meant to be a substitute for individuals’ personal choice, nor should it be perceived as such.  However, it is meant to be an official stance based upon the best efforts of young leaders that are passionate about providing a voice for its membership in the important decisions of the community; and an important decision on an issue relevant to the demographic it serves.

The Board’s endorsement does not change who we are as an organization. It reflects the Board’s assessment of how to carry out the same mission that existed before the vote and will continue to exist in the future.  It is the same mission that existed when the Board issued an endorsement of Harrison Square – an equally divisive issue in the community, but one that the Board members felt was in line with their efforts in YLNI. 

YLNI will continue to explore issues of public policy. Proposed issues will be given due consideration by the Community Impact Committee and if the committee is comfortable with its findings, a recommendation will be made. Any member may request that the Board consider issues with or without Committee consideration.

We invite your additional feedback regarding how we can improve this process. Your Board of Directors wants to hear your opinion. 

The YLNI Board stands by its endorsement and does so with a strong belief that it was made in furtherance of the mission of the organization and appropriate engagement of the membership.

We hope that our members understand and appreciate the efforts of this organization in providing a voice to an under-represented demographic. We encourage all of you who feel your voice was not heard to become a part of the solution. Our committees need more people who are not only passionate about issues like Right to Work, but who are passionate about making this region the best it can be, as well.

Sincerely,

Lisa Updike
President, Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana