As new 2026 calendars are flipped open, Kootenai County Young Professionals (KCYP) members will circle the date in January when they gather to celebrate the possibilities of the new year while lifting the community's future.

Elevate will take place at 6 p.m. Jan. 17 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort. It's an annual event for the nonprofit KCYP to recognize its Top 30 Under 40 winners. Community members nominate outstanding young professionals in Kootenai County, with 30 selected through a judging process. A panel of judges comprising business owners and community leaders selects the winners. 

"The goal of the event is to recognize young professionals who exemplify leadership, impact and excellence in their field or place of work," KCYP Membership Director Chrissy Summering said.

KCYP 2025 Marketing Director Jaelyn Nordstrom said Elevate is about more than recognition.

"It's about celebrating the people who are shaping the future of Kootenai County," Nordstrom said. "By honoring our Top 30 Under 40, we highlight the innovation, leadership and community spirit that make this region thrive."

The evening will include dinner, networking, an awards presentation, a post-ceremony dance party and a keynote speaker. The event will also feature a raffle made possible by local businesses, with proceeds supporting the Top 30 Under 40 program.

Early-bird ticket pricing for members is $120, or $135 for non-members, and is available through Dec. 31. Top 30 Under 40 winner tickets are free, with plus-one tickets at 50% off.

Launched in 2007, KCYP is a group of local young professionals who wish to connect through community social events, leadership opportunities, philanthropy and education. Previous KCYP events have included trivia nights, cornhole tournaments, summer socials, sushi-rolling classes, lumberjack competitions to benefit seniors in need of firewood, yoga classes, coffee networking sessions, committee meetings and more. It recently held a KCYP Christmas party, with a gift wrap drive to support the local Holidays and Heroes program.

The group's mission statement is, "We connect and empower members through community involvement, personal and professional development, social interaction and leadership." Its vision statement is, "To enjoy our community and create a positive impact." Community members of all ages are welcome to become involved.

"Experience, knowledge and backgrounds of all varieties are what continue to help grow our members to become active and developed community leaders," KCYP shares on its website.

Info: kcyp.org