You’d be hard-pressed to find a more involved and engaged person in Rancho Bernardo than Debbie Kurth.
From Volunteer of the Year to President for both the Rancho Bernardo Business Association and the Rancho Bernardo Community Foundation (RBCF), her many accolades speak volumes. In addition, she served as Honorary Mayor for the Rancho Bernardo community. Just looking at the list of organizations she’s supported over the years, there is little she hasn’t done to give back to the community.
However, it’s her humility and passion for helping others which makes Debbie such an inspiring leader.
Debbie, current President of RBCF, an affiliate of The San Diego Foundation, grew up with the intrinsic value of helping others.
[pullquote]I’m proud to be a part of this special community and work with so many people who want to help improve the quality of life in our area.[/pullquote]
“Even at a young age in Wisconsin I loved being active in my community,” recalled Debbie. “During high school, one of my favorite memories was working with seniors at the local nursing home. I looked forward to the time I shared with the residents.”
Naturally, those early experiences shaped the person Debbie would become, both professionally and personally.
After graduate school, Debbie continued a career in health care and eventually started her own business, which took her worldwide. However, Rancho Bernardo was her base, and it wasn’t long before she made herself right at home by finding ways to give back.
“I can’t think of a better place to live or work,” explained Debbie. “Rancho Bernardo has a unique, small-town feel where both residents and business owners really care. I’m proud to be a part of this special community and work with so many people who want to help improve the quality of life in our area.”
Among Debbie’s many volunteer commitments, it’s her work with RBCF that stands out the most. As Board Chair the past two years, she has worked with dozens of members to make a difference in the lives of seniors, students, veterans, and so many other Rancho Bernardo residents.
Since its inception, RBCF has granted more than $700,000 to more than 100 nonprofit programs serving Rancho Bernardo.
Since its inception, the Rancho Bernardo Community Foundation has granted more than $620,000 to more than 100 nonprofit programs serving the community.
When asked about her role as Board Chair, Debbie said, “When I look at the history of what the Rancho Bernardo Community Foundation has accomplished over the years, I’m honored to be working with this group and have such a positive effect in this community. Being asked to continue as President a third year is very exciting.”
Every year, through various initiatives such as Pathway to Pride, Hats Off to Volunteers, and the Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon, RBCF is able to expand its reach in the community to even more philanthropists.
And with committed, passionate leaders like Debbie on board, there’s no sign of stopping the organization’s positive momentum.
“Thanks to the countless residents that are involved in the local area, Rancho Bernardo is able to grow even stronger,” Debbie mentioned. “By giving back to the community, we are able to make a significant impact, not only for the present but for generations to come. What a wonderful feeling to be part of this!”
Join Debbie and hundreds of other generous San Diegans by becoming a member of a Regional Affiliate.
