About
Deborah
Deborah Sheppard is an advocate, community organizer, award winning filmmaker, and a published author who uses the art of storytelling to empower underserved communities and help them master trauma.
Deborah holds over 10 years of experience in advocacy and has a wealth of experience in trauma-informed care, resilience building, program development, youth services, and community organizing.
As the Executive Director of HeARToscope, Inc., a nonprofit agency that uses art as a tool to improve the quality of life for marginalized groups, Deborah has led and participated in multiple projects that promote healing, awareness, and social justice throughout communities.
Additionally, Deborah has produced the award-winning PSA, "I Wish You Knew", that exposes hidden student trauma, while calling for more trauma-informed schools. Since the launch of the PSA Deborah has consulted with schools on how to make their staff more trauma informed.
Deborah also serves as Program Director for Power of U, an agency that works to provide assistance to at-risk youth and their families in an effort to fight substance abuse and other mental health issues.
Deborah, who was recently appointed to the North Carolina Juvenile Justice Planning Committee by Governor Roy Cooper, is also a Masters student pursuing a degree in Developmental and Child Psychology.
Deborah is a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. where she currently serves as Chair of the Social Action Committee for her local chapter.