Spending an evening networking and learning with your peers sounds like a worthwhile use of time.

The Lower Alabama Young Professionals Development Series will host an evening with New York Times bestselling author and Gulf Coast resident Andy Andrews on Aug. 15 at The Lodge at Gulf State Park.

Lower Alabama Young Professionals is a partnership between the Coastal Alabama and South Baldwin Chambers of Commerce serving Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The group targets professionals in the age range of 21 to 40 years old to bring a fresh outlook for leadership in the community. The organization is committed to providing members with community connections, education, philanthropy, volunteering opportunities and outreach.

Beyond professional development, the LAYP group also has fun and holds some of the most fun events in the area. Their signature events include the Barks, Bags and Brews Cornhole Social and the Santa Pub Crawl at The Wharf. Both events benefit local nonprofits. They also operate the bike valet system at the Annual National Shrimp Festival.

Started in 2021, The LAYP Development Series presents guest speakers who are an expert in their field and speaking on a chosen topic that will help individuals in their career and personal lives. Some of the past topics covered have included personal branding and marketing, business succession and estate planning, Facebook dos and do nots and networking.

Chairperson of the LAYP group Casey Buckner had this to say about the upcoming event with Andrews: “We are thrilled that Andy is taking time to speak with us. He brings so much energy and charisma to his engagements and I know people are going to walk away inspired.”

Andrews has spoken at the request of President George H.W. Bush and his teachings and books have been utilized by CEOs, business leaders and national championship-winning football coaches.

The LAYP event is open to everyone, and tickets are available by visiting www.mygulfcoastchamber.com. Admission is $30 and includes a signed copy of an Andy Andrews book, one drink ticket, hors d’oeuvres and an invitation to a post-event social at The Lodge’s Dragonfly Pool Bar & Grill. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m.

For more information regarding the LAYP, visit www.southbaldwinchamber.com/young-professionals.