Building Wayne County's Future

In this episode, Valerie Shaffer, president of the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County, shares her journey from administrative assistant to leading one of the region's most influential organizations. Raised in Richmond, Indiana, Shaffer discusses how her passion for her hometown fuels her work in workforce development, housing, downtown revitalization and long-term community growth. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at the year-long planning that goes into major development projects, explains why collaboration is essential to lasting progress and shares her vision for the future of downtown Richmond. Shaffer also reflects on the mentors who shaped her career, how she balances a demanding role and why volunteering is one of the best ways to create meaningful change in your own community. This conversation offers an inspiring look at the people working to shape Wayne County's future.