If anyone knows what it takes to keep the Community Foundation firing on all cylinders, it's Community Investment Assistant Valerie Mitchell. She joined our organization in 2000 as a member of the Donor Relations team, spent five years as our receptionist/office assistant, and has kept the Community Investment team running smoothly since 2007.

What do you actually do all day in your job? Interact with partners who are making a difference in our community.

What is the most-played song on your iPod? Endless Love by Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey.

Favorite Kalamazooan (living or dead, real or fictional) My godmother, Gwen Hairston. She has been such a great influence in my life.

Favorite book from childhood Curious George

Favorite ice cream flavor Chocolate Chip

If you could be a superhero, who would it be and why? Wonder Woman, because of her power braclets and the lasso of truth.

Favorite movie Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All By Myself

What do you like most about living in Kalamazoo? It's the perfect place to raise a family.