Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Smith
Hi Debbie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My earliest volunteer experiences? It all started with singing off-key! I was just a pigtailed kid in elementary school when my parents dragged us to nursing homes with our church group. We’d belt out songs that probably weren’t exactly Grammy-worthy, but those elderly faces would light up like we were The Beatles! Seeing that pure joy over something so simple? That feeling gets under your skin and never leaves.
After 45 years calling San Diego home, I’ve turned that childhood spark into a lifetime mission—becoming the ultimate community matchmaker. Think of me as the Cupid of Compassion. I connect people desperate to help with the places desperately needing them.
My proudest achievement? Running the Toys for Joy Christmas program for over 20 years.
Picture this: half a million toys going to kids who might otherwise wake up to nothing on Christmas morning. The controlled chaos of those distribution days! Volunteers racing around like Santa’s most caffeinated elves, parents with tears in their eyes, kids bouncing with excitement. Those moments make every logistical nightmare worth it.
In 2023, I rejoined the professional world as Director of Community Engagement with TCWGlobal, where I’ve found a true alignment with my values. Here, social impact isn’t just a buzzword—it’s woven into our company culture through our VIBES framework (Volunteerism, Investment, Belonging, Equality, and Social Responsibility).
In my current role, I lead our organization’s fundraising initiatives and volunteer coordination, spanning a diverse range of opportunities from our Military Heroes events to weekend service trips at orphanages in Mexico.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The Bumpy Road to Success: Turning Challenges into Triumphs
Smooth sailing? Not exactly! But those bumps along the road? They’ve been my greatest teachers.
Over my decades in nonprofit work, I’ve faced countless challenges that transformed into unexpected opportunities, each obstacle forced us to think differently. When one door closed, we discovered windows we never knew existed.
The nonprofit world comes with unique hurdles. When your work depends on volunteers and the generosity of strangers, unpredictability becomes your constant companion. One day, you’re overflowing with helping hands; the next, you’re scrambling to fill gaps. But I’ve learned that maintaining a positive, encouraging attitude is my secret weapon. With optimism as your North Star, you win far more battles than you lose.
What’s my strategy for navigating these challenges? I surround myself with incredible leaders whose strengths complement my weaknesses, I reveal with genuine appreciation. Their diverse skills and perspectives have been absolutely essential. Together, we stay laser-focused on our mission while actually enjoying the journey—even the difficult parts.
Reflecting on past struggles, the stories that once kept me up at night?
Now they’re the ones I laugh about over coffee with my team. That’s the beautiful thing about perseverance—eventually, even the toughest challenges become part of your success story.
The real magic happens when people realize helping others isn’t some grand sacrifice—it’s actually the most fun you can have!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In 2023, I rejoined the professional world as Director of Community Engagement with TCWGlobal, a role that has been both inspiring and deeply fulfilling. At TCWGlobal, social impact isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a core part of our DNA. Through our VIBES framework (Volunteerism, Investment, Belonging, Equality, and Social Responsibility), we don’t just talk about making a difference; we take real, meaningful action.
In my role, I have the privilege of leading our organization’s fundraising initiatives and volunteer coordination, mobilizing our team and partners to support causes that truly matter. Whether it’s organizing large-scale Military Heroes events to honor those who’ve served, coordinating weekend service trips to orphanages in Mexico, or launching innovative programs that foster inclusion and equity, every initiative is an opportunity to create lasting change.
What sets TCWGlobal apart is our unwavering commitment to making an impact—not just within our company, but in the communities we serve. Our employees don’t just clock in and out; they show up with purpose, eager to contribute their time, resources, and talents to causes that extend far beyond the workplace.
Here, I’ve found the perfect alignment between my passion for service and a company that truly walks the talk. Every day, I get to work alongside incredible people who believe in building a better world, one initiative at a time.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
The San Diego Magic
What makes San Diego special? I practically bounce in my seat answering this one.
This city doesn’t just talk—it DOES! While other places have endless planning committees, San Diegans roll up their sleeves and make things happen. We’re like one giant, unusually functional family. Media personalities team up with church leaders who partner with CEOs who collaborate with artists… it’s this beautiful, chaotic dance of cooperation.
When you see someone’s life change because you showed up? That feeling beats any vacation, shopping spree, or promotion. It’s addictive in the best possible way. Though I won’t turn down a meal at BoujieMana afterward. I’m charitable, not crazy!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tcwglobal.com/vibes
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tcw_global
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcwglobal
Image Credits
Tim Gonzales
