Family Business Alliance Ambassadors are volunteers for FBA who are committed to helping members get the most out of their membership. They are all individuals who have been very involved with the organization and have used resources and programs to help strengthen their businesses and families. Ambassadors are available as a resource to our members for any questions they may have from a member’s perspective.
Rachael Vander Heide is one of FBA’s committed ambassadors serving the family business community on her own time. Get to know Rachael with her answers to our questionnaire below.
How did you first get involved in FBA?
For many years, I lived outside of Grand Rapids and sought out ways to feel more connected to the family business. I discovered that Eastern Floral was a part of the FBA and began watching sessions that were offered virtually. Since then, I have moved back to Grand Rapids and enjoy being more involved in many in-person sessions and events and am happy to have joined a Peer Group recently.
Why is FBA important to you?
The learning opportunities through the FBA sessions have been valuable and the personal connections created through its programming have been meaningful.
What has been your favorite FBA event or activity?
There are two events that stick out in my mind. The first was a virtual interview with Fred Keller of Cascade Engineering back in 2020. The other was in person with Jane Grote Abell of Donato’s Pizza in 2022. I enjoyed both speakers as they shared insights into Father/Daughter leadership teams. Neither session was dedicated to that topic, but it was fun to hear from business leaders who are working together or have worked together, as father and daughter.
Why do you think family businesses are important to West Michigan?
Family businesses have deep roots in their communities, making close and long-term relationships with all stakeholders possible and important. Eastern Floral was founded over 70 years ago by Frank & Esther DeVos who had a deep commitment to the West Michigan community and that tradition continues with our family. We are committed to our amazing staff, to our new and returning customers, and we are committed to partnering with and supporting other businesses and organizations that also make a difference in our community.
What are some of your favorite hobbies?
My husband and I have four kids and we enjoy their busy schedules of sports and school activities. As a family, we also enjoy traveling, time on the beautiful lakes of Michigan, and downhill skiing. I believe that I will enjoy sitting down…someday!
Some fun facts about Rachael:
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Moose Tracks
Favorite GR Restaurant: Gaslight Kitchen Asian Cuisine
Favorite TV Show or Movie: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Favorite book: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
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