As the Deputy Director at ECDO, Inc., Deborah Smith plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission to enhance community engagement and support through its flagship initiative, Forever Harlem. With over three decades of experience, ECDO is dedicated to fostering cultural enrichment and social...
As the Deputy Director at ECDO, Inc., Deborah Smith plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission to enhance community engagement and support through its flagship initiative, Forever Harlem. With over three decades of experience, ECDO is dedicated to fostering cultural enrichment and social equity within the Harlem community. Deborah’s passion for the history of Harlem, coupled with her admiration for influential figures like Frida Kahlo and Zora Neale Hurston, informs her strategic approach to community outreach and program management.
In her current role, Deborah is focused on strengthening funding channels from both public and private sources, ensuring that the Forever Harlem initiative continues to thrive and expand its impact. Her expertise in nonprofit management and community development allows her to effectively navigate the complexities of fundraising and stakeholder engagement. By raising the public profile of ECDO’s mission, she aims to cultivate a broader understanding of the cultural and historical significance of Harlem, while also advocating for a more inclusive society that transcends racial and ethnic boundaries.
Deborah’s diverse skill set, which includes photography, editing, and historical research, enhances her ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with various audiences. Through her leadership, ECDO is not only preserving the rich heritage of Harlem but also empowering its residents to actively participate in shaping their community’s future. Her commitment to humane societal advancement is evident in every project she undertakes, making her an invaluable asset to ECDO and the broader nonprofit landscape.
