This is Why We Do This…

The Thurston EDC can be described as an organization that is dedicated and committed to promoting and building a strong economy. Our founding documents identify that we are an organization that supports a diverse and vibrant economy—and that we are accessible to the business and entrepreneurial community. From our humble beginnings in 1981, we have continuously evolved to ensure that the resources and efforts we push out and provide meet the standard of the founders of the EDC. Our mission statement is built upon the notion of being an aggressive but not reckless entity that supports the livelihood of the citizens of Thurston County.

Examples of our work can be found throughout the region. Several years ago, Daniel Rojas Mieres came to our Center for Business & Innovation with the expressed intention of accessing resources, support, mentorship and business planning to launch and grow what his vision was for a business—a physical therapy clinic in which he can provide supportive and health services that impacts the quality of life of our community. Through the supportive work of the CB&I, he launched VBNC Physical Therapy, which is now located just off the Yelm Highway and College Avenue. Rojas Mieres, an immigrant from Paraguay, has created an environment that provides critical physical therapeutic care and uses his bilingual resources to support the Spanish-only speaking citizens for their health needs.

Rojas Mieres has utilized our BEST (start-up training program), was eligible for the Target Zone Startup Grant, and is now enrolled in our statewide business ScaleUp program to ensure that he has the resources, acumen and plan to ensure long-term success.

The establishment of Rojas Mieres’ business has significantly impacted our region—it has enabled and supported hundreds of individuals who may not have gained access to critical healthcare support.

As we review the annual report of activities, our Board of Directors focuses on the impact of our resources and actions—not just in terms of return on dollar investment but also on the positive return on the human component of our community. We do these things because they support the quality of life that we all enjoy.

Onward!

Michael Cade
Thurston EDC Executive Director