As the Director of Philanthropy and Government Relations, Deb brings her invaluable experience and expertise to Take a Hike, playing an active role in every aspect of the organization. With respect to the philanthropic end, Deb co-leads the development and philanthropy team along with Larissa Hayes, supporting individual team members in building and developing connections on behalf of Take a Hike. On the government end, she develops and maintains key critical relationships on all levels of government along with our CEO Gordon Matchett.
Deb’s involvement in working with vulnerable youths started long before she found her way to Take a Hike. Having started her own consulting business, Deb has developed programs that has helped numerous new immigrants and vulnerable youths obtain valuable skills and job training for over 20 years. As a relationship builder with a passion for connecting individuals, she believes that the creation of something beautiful starts when likeminded people are introduced to each other. Coincidentally, it was through those connections where she first heard about Take a Hike, falling in love with the program and joining the team in 2016.
Outside of work, Deb loves being outside with her friends and family, whether that be on a trail or playing a round of golf. Ask Deb about the new communities Take a Hike is growing into, how to make a transformative gift with Take a Hike, and recommendations for great trails and wineries in the Okanagan region.