Letters from Derek & Michelle
This is a bittersweet transition for me.
On the one hand it couldn't be more natural...Derek and I have worked side by side for years now toward this vision of businesses leading communities in creating a world that works for all. When Derek and I worked for BALLE the first time as co-directors and also at Sustainable Connections, we were faced with a choice right before the birth of our daughter. Both organizations were substantial enough that they needed full time focus and Lulu was on the way. We chose local first.
As these things have a way of happening, this summer we were approached and given another opportunity to do "both" again. Derek and I decided we could move our desks a bit. We've sat side by side in our work for more than a decade...next month I'll actually move next door. Ironically enough, when we had to choose the first time, Lulu was about to be born. This time, she's starting full day kindergarten the same week we're making this transition. It seems right for our whole family.
Derek and I see this choice as one of the best opportunities to fulfill the mission of our nearly 650 business and community leaders - to transform and model a community built on sustainable business practices. With BALLE's hq moving here, we'll have more thought leaders coming to town, and we think more opportunities for cross-fertilization will be possible.
The only "bitter" part in the bittersweet for me is any fewer hours that I get to personally spend in conversations with the people of Sustainable Connections -- my friends and neighbors -- about the deeply fulfilling work we're doing in this place that we intend to make our home forever. As I step out of this role and into another (next door), I want to say thank you. What we're growing and demonstrating together is the most extraordinary thing I've ever been a part of in my life. Thank you for your friendship and for your inspiration.
With love and appreciation ~~ Michelle Long
I fully admit my bias, but BALLE made an incredible choice for their new Executive Director and their new home. Michelle is the most capable person I know and have had the pleasure of working with, period. (She is also an incredible wife and mom). No community has more potential for leadership and innovation in sustainable community and economic development than Bellingham/Whatcom County. With BALLE’s move, our community will receive more attention than ever. We have earned it and I know you get as excited about a challenge as I do.
Over the next few months you will notice a number of staff changes to best match our staff skills and passions with programs and services most in demand by our members and partners. We will welcome a few new faces and say good bye to a few dear friends due to long planned life transitions. You can count on us, as you always have, to end up with the team that best positions us, as a community, for sustainable progress.
Sustainable Connections’ Board of Directors is an experienced, fun, accomplished group of individuals that I already have a close working relationship with. Over the next two months three new incredible board members will join the team. The organization is at the mid point of a three year strategic plan that is bold. Our team is excited about finishing this strategic planning term and shooting even higher in the next term.
Please, as the best business leaders, friends and members in the world, feel free to contact me with your ideas on how we can better serve you and the community. Thanks for your past and future support.
Derek Long
Executive Director
Sustainable Connections
