Deena originally joined us as a birthmother coordinator, where she effectively utilized her background in advocacy and crisis intervention. She has an undergraduate degree in Human Services and is currently working towards her graduate degree in Human Services Administration. When someone close to her placed their baby for adoption, she witnessed firsthand the bravery, strength, and love of a birthmother. She is proud to serve as an advocate for all those involved in the adoption process. Deena is married with two wonderful children. In her free time, she enjoys reading, art, watching hockey, eating at the best restaurants, building puzzles, and relaxing with her family on their pontoon boat.
I oversee our Adoptive Parent Services and Birthmother Services Departments. My position gives me the unique opportunity to nurture the relationship between hopeful families and expectant mothers during the entire adoption process.
I joined the team on July 5th, 2018.
I have never had a position drive so much passion in me. There has never been a day where I have not wanted to head into work. I am so motivated by our brave and selfless expectant mothers and birthmothers. I love when that perfect connection between an expectant mother and an adoptive family come together.
"Minds are like parachutes — they only function when open." — Thomas Dewar
I am personally connected to adoption on all sides. I know adoptees, women who have placed, and families who have adopted. This has given me great perspective on the overall process.
What is meant to be always has a way of working out. Whether you are waiting and have never been selected, or have been selected multiple times and still have not adopted, your baby will make his way to us. Trust in the process, keep your heart open, and know that when the time is right, your miracle will happen.
There are too many to list. Not a day goes by where I am not inspired by someone.
When the sun is shining.
Playing games with my family on every holiday. There is not a holiday we don't bust out the board games or head outside to play tag or football. Yes, my siblings and I are in our 40s and 50s and are still playing tag.
I am passionate about life, my children, my career, learning, evolving, art, music, books, food, and anything that ignites a fire in others.
I am strong because of a culmination of tribulations in life. I was raised by a strong, smart, and caring family that helped mold me into who I am. I feel every day something happens that helps shape me into a stronger person than I was the day before.
Losing my father.
I find most things turn out to be for the best, even if they don't feel like it in the moment.
Just one???
Spend times with kids, boating, reading, concerts, and dinner out with friends.
In someone else's backyard...Surprise!". Just kidding — I would say home.
Angel food cake
My children and the amazing people they are turning out to be.
'Lilac Girls' by Martha Hall Kelly
My most recent favorite is Tame Impala, but I love most music: alternative and country probably get played the most.
Schitt's Creek
Any line from the Scottish father in So I Married An Axe Murderer
