About

Deborah's Story

Before I come to work with you, I pause and put on this necklace to remind myself that a meaningful moment is about to occur.

THIS MOMENT MATTERS.

The work we are about to do together is powerful and transformative and grounding. 

I came to this work in a slightly circuitous path and right on time. After years in the non-profit world fundraising and working with families, I knew there was more I could be doing. I wanted to help families give in a way that would be most meaningful for them.

Values

My work is rooted in my values and this is where I begin with most clients. By reconnecting with our values, we can discover our true philanthropic selves.

Courage

I believe that it takes courage to give in alignment with your values, to stay true to your values. By helping you give in this way, you’ll connect with your own courage.

Freedom

I value freedom and your freedom to choose how you will give. My goal is to support you in choosing.

Integrity

I perform my work in a professional, honest, and sincere manner. Integrity is the basis of all my interactions.

Relationships

My priority is YOU, the client. Having open, honest communication in our relationship is pivotal to our work together.

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And so, in 2008 I created Enlightened Philanthropy to guide individuals, couples, and families in giving, in making a difference in the world. 

Since 2012, I’ve been seeking, celebrating, and honoring the meaningful moments of life—both positive and negative. While this focus was entirely in my personal world at the time, following a break from work to raise my son, I’ve come back to my advising with the understanding that every time I engage with a client, it is a meaningful moment. 

What do I mean by this? It’s a moment that won’t ever happen again. It’s a moment in which self-discovery happens. It’s a moment in which we begin to see the world differently. It’s a moment in which we change. It’s a moment of synergy.

My work is an intersection of all that I’ve learned over the years, from a liberal arts education to non-profit work to advising to the school of life and everything in between. I draw upon it all to work with my clients. To create meaningful moments together.

What other meaningful moments have I experienced in my life?

  • Graduating from Wittenberg University
  • Receiving a Master’s degree from the University of Delaware
  • Moving to Monterey to work at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Moving home to Oregon
  • Losing my brother too early
  • Raising my son
  • Being with my Dad as he died