Friday, October 1, 2021 8:00 AM - 3:15 PM
Cathy Heying is the Founder and current Executive Director of The Lift Garage, a nonprofit auto repair shop that provides low-cost car repair for low-income Minnesotans. Born and raised in a town of 800 in Northeast Iowa, Cathy has lived in Minneapolis since 1997, where she has worked in a variety of church and social service positions. Holding a BA in Social Work from Loras College and an MA in Pastoral Ministry from St. Mary's University, Cathy returned to Dunwoody College in 2008 to receive an AS degree in Auto Technology with a vision of starting a garage to provide affordable car repair for people in need. The Lift Garage has been open since 2013. In 2015, Cathy was named both a CNN Hero and an Irwin Tools Tradesperson of the Year. Noreen Buhmann is a veteran in human service work. She has a rich history developing programs and service lines across a broad spectrum. Noreen began her career as a street-savvy youth worker with the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis. Her work led her to leadership roles with Gustavus Adolphus College, Three Rivers Park District, and Lutheran Social Service. She recently determined it necessary to conduct her work with a different perspective—through a legal lens. Her work with MDLC includes building collaborations, conducting outreach, education events and training sessions, monitoring facilities, and providing federal grant support. Dalaine Remes is a Legal Advocate who has worked in MDLC's Mankato office for 13 years. Dalaine advocates for reasonable accommodations and/or disability support services that will help people maximize their independence, maintain health, and protect their right to have equal access to fully enjoy their communities.