Northeast Metro Business VHEDC 2018 | Page 19

Collaborations DYNAMIC CONNECTIONS STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES A wise person once said, “Collaboration is the secret sauce that makes it all happen.” It’s that vital combination of ingredients and process – including a lot of like-minded people – that enriches whatever’s being created to produce a thing of value. The following examples of collaboration – powerful connections – between local nonprofits, businesses and a school district are proof that many individuals benefit, AND their local communities – as a whole – are enriched, energized and strengthened as well. WBLAEF & Hallberg Engineering, Inc. Since its founding in 1993, White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation has supported White Bear Lake Area School District 624 by administering grants, fellowships and scholarships for teachers and students, as well as an Angel Fund for families with special economic needs. Dawn Hank, WBLAEF Executive Director, says, “The Foundation is not an entity of School District 624 but was created to help it provide excellence in education to all of its students, and I feel confident that every student that comes through the District has been touched by the Foundation. I really believe that.” Dawn Hank, WBLAEF Executive Director vhedc.com 19