| Growing up in her native Australia, Deb was bitten by the youth development and camp bug at the age of 12 when she received a scholarship to attend a one week summer camp. It was life changing to have the opportunity to be away from a troubled home environment and experience new things, be cared for by positive adult mentors, and to feel joyful, safe and carefree. This profound experience was the start of a journey that inspired Deb to see a bright future beyond her own at-risk childhood, and was also the defining moment in developing her passion for service to youth.
Deb followed her commitment to a career in youth development to the USA in 1989 where she worked as a summer camp counselor in Maine, and for the past two decades has called Boston home. Deb pursued her degree in Business and Recreation Management and a career as a Camp Director, and in 2001 transitioned from the for profit arena into the not for profit youth development world when she discovered Crossroads for Kids.
Deb will celebrate her 10th anniversary at Crossroads for Kids in 2010. With roles including the Director for Camp Wing, Camp Lapham, and founding Director for the C5 teen leadership program, Deb has deep insight into the program and operations of the entire organization. Under Deb's four years of leadership as Executive Director, Crossroads for Kids has formed many new partnerships with schools and youth focused organizations in Massachusetts, expanded year-round programming to 450 youth, implemented a successful Apprentice and transition to college program, and has maintained a 100% High School graduation rate and 90% college matriculation rate among program participants.
Deb sits on the national C5 Youth Foundation Association board, and is a member of the American Camp Association.
Deb has dedicated her career to providing life changing experiences, opportunities and access to resources that enable young people facing enormous challenges to see beyond their circumstances and reach their highest potential.
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Leadership Team
