We’re excited to introduce WORC’s new executive director, Deb Love.
By: Paula Antoine, WORC Board Chair
It is with great enthusiasm that the Western Organization of Resource Councils (WORC) announces the appointment of Deborah Love as our new Executive Director.
Bringing with her over three decades of experience in nonprofit and philanthropic leadership, Deb has dedicated her career to conservation and fostering leadership development. Notably, she served at Resources Legacy Fund, where she spearheaded the Intermountain West program, championing rural and Tribal community transition and sustainable economic development.
Deb was drawn to WORC’s dedication to community organizing, grassroots empowerment, and pursuit of economic, environmental, and social justice: “WORC’s bottom-up, community-based approach is frankly the best hope we have of achieving long-term change. This is the most important work that I could be doing.”
As WORC celebrates its 45th year, we remain steadfast in our commitment to grassroots empowerment and impactful advocacy. With Deb at the helm, we are confident in our ability to further strengthen our network, embrace diversity, and drive meaningful change in the lives of our members and their communities.
Deb’s commitment to supporting organizations working on the ground in rural communities, coupled with her ability to foster innovative programs, creative strategies, and collaborative teams that get results, made her a standout candidate in our national search. Her leadership ethos, grounded in humility and mutual respect, aligns seamlessly with WORC’s mission of advancing a vision of democratic, sustainable, and just societies through community action.
Deb will officially assume her role on March 18, based in Bozeman, Montana, with frequent visits to our headquarters in Billings and throughout the region. We invite you to join us in extending a warm welcome to her during upcoming events, including our Principles of Community Organizing training, WORC’s June conference, and other online and in-person gatherings throughout the year.
On behalf of the WORC Board, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to this important decision, and those who have taken on additional roles and responsibilities during this time. Together, we embark on an exciting chapter under Deb’s leadership, guided by our shared commitment to creating a better future for all.
Thank you for your continued support of WORC.
Sincerely,
Paula Antoine
WORC Board Chair
Winner, South Dakota, Dakota Rural Action
Yes, I want to help WORC elevate Western voices and hold decision-makers accountable!