The Vadnais Heights Community Foundation has announced that it is partnering with The Saint Paul Foundation to establish the Vadnais Heights Community Foundation Endowment. The organization made the strategic decision to affiliate in order to benefit from The Saint Paul Foundation's professional investment services, fiduciary oversight and gift planning expertise.

The Vadnais Heights Community Foundation has existed since 1979, with initial funding from interest generated by a city housing bond. Over the years, the foundation has sponsored projects to benefit a variety of causes in Vadnais Heights, including affordable housing, business development, programs for at-risk youth and community events.

"Our new relationship with The Saint Paul Foundation will help us build permanent charitable capital for the greater community of Vadnais Heights," said Hank Tessier, former Vadnais Heights mayor and current president of the Vadnais Heights Community Foundation. "We will continue our mission of contributing to the health and spirit of the community through grants and services."

"The Vadnais Heights Community Foundation has been enhancing the vitality of the East Metro for 26 years," said Carleen Rhodes, president of The Saint Paul Foundation. "The Saint Paul Foundation is pleased to be their partner in directing grants into the community and providing a way for individuals to contribute."