Our political and other boundaries may identify us, but they do not necessarily define us.  That is the reason I am so thankful to be part of the Headwaters RDC.  The organization we work with, and for, is a five-county community.   But we care about each other's challenges, and we share in each other's successes as one community.  We firmly believe that those we know throughout our Region are friends and neighbors, not adversaries. We’re one team, and one community, and we have committed to act that way.

That is why, as Chair of this organization, I am so pleased to present to you our 2011 Annual Report.  We believe the best way to predict our future is to create it.  Within these web pages you will find examples of how we’re creating that future that is ours in every corner of our five county area.  We’re building a major homeless housing complex with supportive services in Bemidji, we're making loans for business development in each County, and we're challenging our communities to undertake wellness initiatives that will lead to better long-term health outcomes.  We have leadership initiatives in several communities, and we're also involved in numerous traditional community and economic development projects in the Region.

See for yourself how we’re making a difference.

This work only happens because we have the best governing body in the state, and some of the most passionate and effective staff anywhere.  This Annual Report is testament to their effort.

From the Executive Director - Cliff Tweedale

What makes for a great organization, one that can sustain its success over a period of years? That is a question I’ve been able to revisit over the last year, as several organizations have asked us to help them chart a path toward excellence.

It is easy to fall into thinking that it’s all about strategy – the what of an organization. While strategy is important, it is only describes half of the equation. The other half, and many would argue the most important half, is organizational culture – the values, and resulting behaviors, that are embraced by the organization.  In other words, it’s how an organization goes about its business.

The results we point to with pride this year -- Active Living/SHIP projects throughout the region that are showing results, the construction of our housing with supportive services, and several pilot projects aimed at increasing the talent pool and workforce availability in the Region – are more a result of our culture playing itself out than it is about strategy. That culture includes our passion for our Region and our customers, a commitment to results, and our belief in the importance of leadership, and team.

The other parts of this report describe these projects and others. As you review our work, I hope you appreciate our staff and Commission as much as I do.

I look forward to another great year!