June 16, 2026
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3 min
Paul B. and Deborah D. Speer: Building a Beloved Community
People give in many ways, but very few give in as many as Paul B. and Deborah D. Speer.
Their broad approach is what made the Vancouver couple the recipients of the 2026 Philanthropists of the Year Award. Presented annually by the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, the award recognizes individuals, families and foundations whose leadership, service and generosity create lasting community impact.
The Speers were honored during our Annual Luncheon on June 2, and their story is a blueprint for how individual giving helps build a stronger, more inclusive southwest Washington.
The Speers’ approach to giving and community
The Speers’ commitment to community began with gratitude.
Throughout their lives, both Paul and Debbie benefited from the support of family, educators, mentors and institutions that opened doors and created opportunities. As they reflected on their own journeys, they recognized that no one succeeds alone.
That understanding took on new meaning roughly 20 years ago when they launched what Paul describes as their “encore career” in community service.
Their journey began with traditional forms of giving: serving on boards, providing pro bono expertise and supporting nonprofits financially. But over time, they expanded their view of what meaningful impact could look like.
Curious and data-driven, Debbie and Paul saw that nonprofits are tasked with addressing the consequences of failed systems and policies. In response, they began giving in new ways — using their power and privilege strategically. Whether challenging injustice, advocating for fair policies or supporting diverse leadership, the Speers are working toward a community of inclusion and belonging for all.
To date, the Speers have partnered with more than 40 equity-centered nonprofits to improve education, healthcare, housing, food security, the environment and independent journalism. Across every cause area, their work reflects a simple belief: we all do better when we all do better.
Watch their award presentation to learn more about the Speers and hear their moving acceptance remarks.
Lessons from their journey
When asked what advice they would offer others seeking to make a greater impact, the Speers emphasized that meaningful giving begins with humility.
Here are four lessons that have guided their journey:
- Stay curious. Effective giving requires deep listening, constant learning and a willingness to challenge assumptions.
- Look beyond symptoms. Well-intentioned support can sometimes reinforce the very challenges we aim to solve. Understanding root causes matters.
- Connect across differences. Expanding our networks beyond our familiar circles creates empathy, trust and stronger communities.
- Honor those doing the work. Donors have very little at stake compared to the nonprofit professionals and advocates who are tackling society’s most complex challenges.
These lessons have shaped the Speers’ approach for decades and continue to influence how they invest their time, resources and energy today.
Help us celebrate philanthropy
Paul often jokes that he recoils a bit at the word “philanthropy.” In today’s world, the term can feel disconnected from everyday people and communities. But at its root, philanthropy means a love of humanity.
At the Community Foundation, we believe that love is expressed in many ways: through generosity, service, leadership, advocacy and a willingness to invest in the common good. It is found wherever people use their strengths to help create opportunities for others.
The Speers exemplify that spirit. By celebrating their contributions, we hope to inspire others to recognize the innate power they hold and to continue shaping southwest Washington for the better.
Do you know an individual, family or organization making a meaningful difference in our region? Help us celebrate their impact by nominating them for next year’s Philanthropist of the Year Award.