WELCOME ! FROM THE VHEDC
Liz Moscatelli
VHEDC Executive Director
Resilient . Proactive . Flexible . We have had to be all of these things over the past couple of years . Perhaps more than the others , we ’ ve had to be “ flexible ,” which is defined in the Oxford languages Dictionary as being capable of bending easily without breaking ; able to be easily modified to respond to altered circumstances of conditions ; ready and able to change so as to adapt to different circumstances .
If we aren ’ t flexible , we are nothing . I don ’ t recall where I read that years ago , but I ’ ve passed the wisdom on to many . These past two years have been a testament to how flexible we are , and can be . The ups and downs of the pandemic caused enormous changes in our daily lives , both personally and professionally .
Work from home , Zoom calls , social distancing , N95 masks , masks required indoors , COVID vaccination , booster , Docket App , online school , online church , contact tracing , no contact . A few short years ago , these things weren ’ t even part of our regular vocabulary let alone our daily lives . Now they are our reality .
The employers in our vibrant business community found ways to keep it all together through the waves of the pandemic . It wasn ’ t easy to do . The employees had to adjust as well . Choices were made and flexibility was key to the success of every one of our businesses , nonprofit organizations and educators . Stories that erupted out of the pandemic were inspirational and motivating to so many .
We all know the healthcare system was extremely adaptable . All other sectors were in the same boat , and stepped up to the challenges as well ; but their stories didn ’ t grace the pages of the local newspapers as much as the healthcare workforce challenge .
In this magazine , we have stories about the resiliency of the business community . Read about the many pivots our wonderful nonprofits made to ensure those most vulnerable in our community still received the services they need , despite the closings . Plus , the heroic steps taken by educators to answer the call from the Governor to quickly educate and train thousands of Certified Nursing Assistants .
These stories , along with the others in this magazine , show how the Northeast Metro has met the challenges presented by the pandemic , and is ready to emerge stronger than ever !
Liz Moscatelli VHEDC Executive Director
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO :
The Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation ( VHEDC ) is a nonprofit organization , established in 1984 by a group of business and city leaders . We serve the northeast metro area as a conduit for business resources at local , regional and state levels for the purpose of facilitating business expansion and retention efforts .
BENEFITS OF BEING AN INVESTOR
• Participate in promoting a healthy vibrant economy , creating community , prosperity and making a positive impact .
• Access to expert resources and connections to grow and expand your business .
• Unique programs bring businesses and civic leaders together to promote common interests and sustain growth .
• Engage in professional programs and committees such as HR Connections , Women in Leadership , Business , Retention and Expansion , North Metro Young Professionals , Nonprofit Collaborative “ Partners for Good ” and workforce initiatives .
WHAT YOU GET AS AN INVESTOR :
• Recognition as an Investor member on our website , annual report and annual business magazine directory .
• Complimentary events throughout the year .
• Multiple channels of communication , including weekly BizNews e-newsletter and social media recognition throughout the year .
• Make an investment in your business and in your community by becoming a VHEDC Investor !
Apply online at vhedc . com
6 Northeast Metro Business