Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/94702
workWith MeLark Paulson Keeping local businesses on everyone's mind In 2008, Lark Paulson was looking for a career that would feed her soul. "I could never work in a job that I don't fully believe in," the 32-year-old Wisconsin native explains. As the daughter of entrepreneurial par- ents Paulson learned fi rsthand the grati- fi cation, hardship and impact of owning a small business. Th en, after traveling the world and dabbling in the nonprofi t sector in India, her true appetite for a meaningful career came into focus. Upon her return to Madison, Paulson was serendipitously recruited to fi ll the fi rst paid position at Dane Buy Local, a Madison-based nonprofi t that promotes the same principle Paulson was raised on: shopping local. Today, Paulson has found her stride with the group as the director of membership services and administration. "I believe I landed in my position partly Snag Local Prizes! There couldn't be a better time to "think local" than this holiday season. DBL's fourth because of designed fate," Paulson says, laughing. "At DBL, we are a voice for local and independent businesses in the Dane County area." With nearly 700 members, annual Think Local First campaign will give away $6,000 in prizes from 75 participating businesses, including gift certifi cates to local restaurants, stores, inns and more. Visit danebuylocal. org to enter. DBL's voice rings loud and clear. It is the largest of all the city- and cal businesses. Paulson says if communi- ties can shift just 10 percent of collective purchases to local businesses, billions of dollars can be generated within the local economy. For every $100 spent locally, $73 stays local. Only $47 of purchases at non- local businesses stays in our backyard. To keep up with her fast-paced posi- nonprofi t's signature crusade, "Th ink Local First," encourages community members to remem- ber the great offers found through lo- organizations in the nation. Th e county-wide buy local tion, Paulson draws strength from her yoga practice. Th rough her investment in well- being, Paulson believes she is better able to serve her community in a role she loves. "I believe in everything I do at DBL," she says. "I love the people I interact with and the connections I make. I believe [it's those] connections that help strengthen our community. To me, that is so mean- ingful." —Mollie Busby December 2012 bravamagazine.com 29 Photo by Shanna Wolf