Genuine connection among healthcare and wellness professionals is often put aside due to fast-paced living. But Hope Clark, Holistic Solutions Provider with doTERRA, and Amanda Charles, Surgical Technology Educator for AdventHealth Orlando, decided to create something simple, intentional and refreshing to help these professionals connect, collaborate and grow. 

After years of packed calendars and growing families, Clark and Charles knew that networking needed a reset. They created the Underground Networking Gathering—a once-a-month, after-hours meetup for local health and wellness professionals in Winter Park and Lake Mary areas. 

The group meets at a different office every month. The host shares their specialty in a quick three- to five-minute spotlight. Everyone else gets one to two minutes to introduce their niche. People bring business cards, shake hands and build real connections without the need to pay dues, bring or buy food, meet referral quotas or contribute to a website. The connections provide meaningful, word-of-mouth networking for participants. 

“The last gathering brought together 18 professionals from diverse practices who were engaged, energized and are already collaborating,” says Clark, pointing out that the group is invite-only and intentionally small. “The vibe was refreshing, purposeful and fun.” 

To get monthly invites and text reminders, text “Lake Mary” or “Winter Park” to 386-280-7511.