b'introduction to operational functionsWHAT ARE MEDAS OPERATIONAL FUNCTIONS?COMMUNICATIONSEVALUATIONFINANCEFUND DEVELOPMENTHUMAN RESOURCES AND OPERATIONSTo have strong programs that advance our communities toward our six Results, MEDA needs an equally sturdy organizational infrastructure to sustain and grow our public-facing work. If our programs and services are the branches and leaves of the tree, our administrative functions are the roots: They provide the necessary structural support and vital resources so our work in the community can flourish, our community members can thrive and our organization can persist. While largely working behind the scenes, operations staff also serve as thought partners, drawing from myriad areas of experience to enhance our programs, deepen our ties to our networks and pursue innovative, proactive solutions to community challenges.GUIDE TO THE FOLLOWING PAGESOur discussion of each administrative function answers the following questions:KEY RESPONSIBILITIESn What roles does this function play in sustaining and growing MEDA as an organization?nWhat roles does this function play in supporting the regular operations of our community-facing programs?STRATEGIC PRIORITIESnWhat are the priority growth areas for this function that will allow MEDA to build capacity and enhance our programs?COVID-19 IN CONTEXTnHow did the COVID-19 pandemic alter or impact this functions work?nHow do we anticipate the pandemic will shape this functions priorities through 2024?28MISSION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGENCY'