Waterford Community Coalition Team, Board of Directors & Sector Reps.

With a wealth of experience in the field, Debbie previously held the position of Program Director for the Novi Community Coalition, worked for Youth Assistance, and had a long tenure in education with Clarkston Community Schools.

Passionate about her role at the WCC, Debbie is dedicated to helping youth, parents, and families in the Waterford community build resilience and bring meaningful change. Drawing from personal experience with the lasting impact of trauma and its connection to mental health and substance misuse disorders, Debbie brings a unique perspective to her work.

Debbie holds several accreditations and is recognized as a MI ACEs Community Champion, focusing on trauma-focused strategies, ACEs awareness, mindfulness, and evidence-based practices. Her approach emphasizes skill-building and education, with a particular emphasis on the healing power of nature.

She grew up in a family with Alcohol use disorder.  Being a child of a parent who suffered from addiction, she understands how important it is to build a healthy family structure and give youth several coping strategies to help manage various life situations.  She wants to empower youth to make the best choices they can.

 "I am so lucky for the opportunity to work with the Waterford Community Coalition and make the community a better place."

That letter started her journey as an activist to help other families going though what she was going through.  She has spoken on various panels, including both the National and Michigan Associations of Drug Court Professionals about Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT), and the revolving door of treatment options her family had encountered.

She became a certified QPR Suicide Gatekeeper, attended the Association of Recovery Community Organizations (ARCO) Leadership Academy, facilitated Narcan trainings throughout the state before it was easily accessible, completed CADCA Coalition training, and has sat on various Boards in both the Prevention and Recovery arenas.

 As a Data Analyst with a budget and finance background, she now uses her talents at the WCC in an administrative role.  Kathy is our Authorized Business Official responsible for grant administration, overseeing financial aspects of grants and performance reporting.  She works closely with the Board, Program Director and Resource Outreach/Program Coordinator on WCC programs.