Annette Vandenberg

I attribute my success to years of dedication, experience, and a genuine commitment to helping others achieve stability and self-sufficiency. One story that stands out is helping a formerly homeless individual, who had been repeatedly denied Social Security disability benefits, secure transitional housing in a new senior affordable building on Leonard Street. After being homeless since his release from prison 20 years ago, he not only found employment but also maintained consistent rent payments—and I remember the joy of seeing him sleep in on his first Friday morning in his new home.

With 35 years of experience in social work, I’ve seen firsthand how access to the right resources and support can transform lives. My work is guided by the goal of creating permanent community spaces for nonprofits in West Grand, providing a foundation where people can access services, gain independence, and achieve long-term stability. These experiences continually reinforce my belief in the power of community, compassion, and dedicated support.

Speak truth, honor your word through actions and you will never lose your integrity.

My advice to young women entering this field is to ensure that your work aligns with your mission, values, and vision. When these are in harmony, your work never feels like a job—your passion drives everything you do. It’s incredibly rewarding to see firsthand the positive influence you can have on your community and the meaningful changes you can help create for those around you.

I also emphasize the importance of self-care. Prioritize rest, set firm boundaries, and don’t be afraid to say no to opportunities that don’t align with your mission or values. Protect your inner core, nurture restorative hobbies, and maintain a spiritual practice that grounds you. By taking care of yourself, you strengthen your ability to serve others effectively and sustainably.

Funding is getting harder. However be innovative and trust yourself to find those opportunities. The worst you will hear is no. Ask for the most you could possibly get, never leave Funding on the table.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, family, and connection—to people, to nature, and to community. I’m deeply spiritual and enjoy nurturing my soul through reading the Bible, while also sharing meaningful moments with my six incredible children and grandchildren. From crocheting with my granddaughter to exploring nature on hikes or visiting waterfalls and the zoo, I cherish experiences that foster curiosity, wonder, and bonding. I love gardening with my grandchildren—watching my grandson dig for “treasures” in the soil brings me immense joy—and I’ve passed on my love of nature and the outdoors to my family. Cooking is another passion, as I enjoy preparing recipes passed down from my mother and Sicilian grandfather, preserving family traditions through food. Family has always been at the center of my life, and I take great pride in our strong military heritage, including my grandfather’s survival of two shipwrecks in World War II and my father’s service in the Army. I’m equally passionate about extending these values into my work and community. Through Kinda Hearts Bloom, John Ball Zoo and the West partnership we help people transform their yards into gardens that enhance the environment, provide fresh foods, and bring neighbors together. Seeing the positive impact of these efforts reinforces my belief in the power of connection, stewardship, and community—and reminds me that my work and personal life are most fulfilling when they reflect my faith, values, and commitment to others.