If you haven't noticed, there's an exciting movement in West Virginia right now as groups of young professionals work to improve the state's reputation and build their careers. 

Up Next Charlie West is a program that provides professionals, creatives, and trade workers with opportunities to network and positively impact their community, specifically in Charleston.

The initiative wants to create an enjoyable and altruistic environment that will encourage young people to stay in the area and attract others to it. 

From monthly mixers to charity events, Up Next Charlie West brings together individuals passionate about promoting themselves and their city, using social media to showcase all the great things happening in the area.

However, Up Next Charlie West is one of a few groups of its kind in West Virginia.

Generation West Virginia is a statewide organization that aims to attract and retain young people while supporting their professional growth.

We had GWV's Executive Director Alex Weld on the podcast, which you can listen to here.

Meanwhile, Generation Huntington is making strides in the western part of the state, as well.

This movement of young professionals working to create a welcoming environment for others our age is a positive development.

The question remains, though: how can we encourage more young professionals to move to and stay in West Virginia? 

One solution is to let the young professionals who are already here do some of the talking and share their positive experiences with others.