One key to building a successful local business, is devoted involvement in the community you serve.It's integral in growing business, and in building a community that you desire to serve.

Jeff Wasden, co-owner of PROformance Apparel in Littleton, lives this theory well, as a delegate for his neighborhood, for improving education, and involvement in advocacy groups. As the 2013 recipient of the Brian R. Vogt Community Leader of the Year award, Wasden has served on the South Metro Denver Chamber's Board of Directors and public policy committee.

This week, on Connect and Collaborate, your host Gayle Dendinger talks with Jeff about his philosophies on community. Primarily, he believes getting in the game, not trying to control things from the sidelines. Likewise, when it comes to political action, Wasden stresses the importance of respecting the differences of the people you're working with because it will impact how they vote. When you disagree, you still need to be able to move forward together in the future.

As a former teacher, Wasden has first-hand experience in education, and holds firm ideas of how to best serve the students, and how to address post-secondary education.

Be sure to listen as Jeff and Gayle expand upon these ideas.

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