A new face in the Foundation Office. . .

“A move to the East Coast from BC had been in our plans for a long time”.  While the move was motivated by grown children and grandchildren who reside in Avonport, Deborah feels fortunate to work with supporters of Valley Regional Hospital Foundation. “Being here with such a strong volunteer leadership team and great community support is a definite bonus.”

Deborah was born and raised on Vancouver Island; a sixth generation Islander. After growing up on the Oyster River, north of Courtenay, Deborah attended Simon Fraser University where she completed a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Communication, and a Minor in Kinesiology. Deborah supplemented her studies in later years with a Masters’ Degree in Philanthropy and Development (not-for-profit management and fundraising).

 “The greatest attraction to the non-profit sector is the impact on people’s lives, mine included. It is astounding how you start in this field believing you can make a positive difference in the world, and as you further your career you come to realise the positive difference is within you, as well as outside you. It is not possible to remain unchanged when someone looks into your eyes and says ‘because of the work you did, I am living and loving every day – you saved my life’”.

Deborah has enjoyed working in the non-profit sector, beginning with communications and programming positions, and ultimately serving as Executive Director and Director of Development in the environmental, health, and educational sectors. In addition to her non-profit experience, she has worked in municipal and provincial governments; in the finance sector; and has managed her own locally-sourced, organic, multi-cultural restaurant.

 While she no longer has a restaurant, Deborah loves to create unique and delicious meals with her husband Daryl, their five grown children and four grandchildren. Outdoor pursuits such as kayaking, gardening and hiking are favorite activities she continues to share with friends and family.