Introducing, Beverly Calender-Anderson, a 2021 Women Excel Bloomington Honoree

"If you live in Bloomington and hear about an initiative, program or event that lifts up, supports or enriches others, there is a good chance Beverly Calender-Anderson is involved in, and very possibly leading, the effort," said Mary Catherine Carmichael.

Beverly Calender-Anderson, the Director of Community and Family Resources with the City of Bloomington, is a longtime leader in the community, through her roles with the City of Bloomington, and countless other community-based role on boards and commissions. She serves as an inspiration to women in local government and the social services. She leads humbly but firmly, she encourages creative solutions to new problems, she mentors and supports others, and she is willing to go above and beyond her job description to serve our community. ​

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While some job responsibilities went into something of a holding pattern during the COVID-19 pandemic, Beverly’s workload multiplied. That’s because when people are in need and require guidance and earned wisdom, or when a problem needs someone to reach out, make the calls, write the emails and attend all the Zoom meetings required to make the connections happen and put all the pieces together, Beverly is there getting the job done.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only intensified her impact on the community. Bringing together the appropriate funders and service providers, Beverly helped organize and administer the Bloomington COVID-19 Isolation Shelter, which has provided a safe space for dozens of individuals who were impacted by the COVID-19 virus throughout the pandemic. Beverly was asked to launch and lead the mayor’s Social Service Safety Net Group to assure childcare, food, shelter and safety and hygiene needs of the underserved were met.

Beverly has a history of facing our community’s toughest challenges head on. She manages controversy and conflicting viewpoints with grace. From her work on issues with the Farmers’ Market, race relations, Seminary Park, human rights and many more, Beverly turns difficult situations into opportunities to gain mutual understanding among the parties involved. The community is healthier, better understood and more cared for through her work.

Beverly serves her community as a leader, a connector, a sage, a questioner, a trusted elder, and a guide. "If you live in Bloomington and haven’t been uplifted by the heart and work of Beverly Calender-Anderson, sit tight. Chances are, your turn is coming," said Carmichael. 

​Congratulations, Beverly, on receiving the distinction of a 2021 Women Excel Bloomington Honoree!