A Letter from the Executive Director Dear WEDI Friends and Family, WEDI has had an extraordinary year. Last April we were just beginning to see the end of quarantine and preparing to reopen the Bazaar for dine-in customers. The leadership of the capital campaign to build the West Side Bazaar on Niagara Street was formed. We were planning an in-person summer education program. All has been accomplished, and more. You may have seen WEDI in the news, and you may be following us on social media and getting our digital monthly newsletter but, being with you in person is incomparable. I want you to feel connected to WEDI, and most importantly, to be thanked for your contribution to the success of our organization that was founded only 16 years ago. Today, our focus is honed to English Language Learners in grades 1-12 and on nascent entrepreneurs from overlooked and underserved populations. Our goal? Equity. WEDI was built by hundreds and hundreds of supporters like you who have brought their best thinking, energy, and financial support to WEDI’s vision: that all residents of Western New York can succeed and thrive in a culturally inclusive community. I am thankful for you, and I am thankful that our region is emerging from the pandemic on a growth trajectory. I am also so grateful for the board, staff, and volunteers that made this evening’s event so wonderful. Please stay in touch, there are exciting times ahead and I want to share them with you. It lifts my heart when I walk into the Bazaar. See you there in 2022! Carolynn Welch Executive Director VISION WEDI’s vision is that all residents of Western New York can succeed and thrive in a culturally inclusive community. MISSION WEDI strengthens communities through a continuum of educational and financial resources, removing systemic barriers to economic equity for all Western New Yorkers. WEDI // 5
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