Your network is your net worth. When it comes to retaining talent, the Twin City is no stranger to building a community that gives back. *Winston Under 40 enters the chat*. Winston Under 40 is a professional networking group that focuses on recruiting and developing talent in the Twin City.

Building connection

The group operates under Greater Winston-Salem, the city's chamber of commerce in efforts to deepen a sense of community and connection among professionals from all industries.

"People will typically stay when we feel connected, when we feel valued, and we feel like we're learning," said Anna Howard-Craven, board chair of the Winston Under 40 organization.

The group focuses on three core goals:

Professional development
Social engagement
Community involvement

Although the name suggests it might be geared toward participants under 40, professionals of any age are welcome to attend social events and get involved with activities hosted by the organization.

Working for the greater good

Each year Winston Under 40 partners with a local nonprofit organization to support its mission while providing volunteer opportunities for participants to get engage in throughout the year. This year, the group is partnering with The Winston-Salem Street School.

Other events include "Lunch with Leaders," social hours that support a local business every other month, and networking workshops.

Want to get involved?

Subscribe to the mailing list to stay connected to what the group is up to. Age requirement is a must for those applying to be on the board or to receive the Winston Under 40 recognition which is awarded at the end of the year.

"The vision there is to feel included and a part of the city so that's not necessarily a distant entity," Howard-Craven said. "[...] to take the steps to make my world better but also better around me."

Register to attend Winston Under 40 social Thursday, April 10 at Dave & Buster's.