The Power of Collaboration: How Philanthropy is Transforming Our Region with Danita DeHaney

In this episode of the Palm Beach North Podcast, we sit down with Danita DeHaney, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Danita shares her inspiring journey — from her beginnings in Maryland, working in higher education advancement, to now leading one of the region’s most impactful philanthropic organizations.

We explore Danita’s early career influences, her time at the University of Maryland, University of Florida, and FAU, and how those experiences shaped her leadership style. Now at the helm of the Community Foundation, she discusses how the Foundation is building stronger communities, expanding scholarship opportunities, improving literacy, preserving cultural heritage, and addressing urgent challenges like workforce housing in Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

This episode also covers how Danita’s passion for philanthropy and equity is guiding the Foundation’s mission to make "paradise" accessible for all. Whether collaborating with nonprofits, convening leaders, or mobilizing philanthropy for systemic change, Danita is shaping a lasting legacy of service and community impact.

Topics Covered:

- Danita’s path from athletics administration to philanthropy leadership

- Lessons learned from working at University of Maryland, University of Florida, and FAU

- How the Community Foundation builds stronger communities through philanthropy

- Strategic growth under Danita’s leadership, expanding from $20M to over $51M

- The Foundation’s role in literacy initiatives and education scholarships

- The vision for the African American Museum and Research Library at Roosevelt High School

- Addressing workforce housing challenges through partnerships and advocacy

- How the business community and philanthropy can collaborate for regional impact

- Danita’s personal reflections on mentorship, resilience, and leaving a legacy

Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Tampa General Hospital.

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To learn more about Palm Beach North Podcast, visit: https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com

To learn more about the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, visit: https://www.pbnchamber.com

To learn more about Tampa General Hospital, visit: https://www.tgh.org

To learn more about the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, visit: https://www.yourcommunityfoundation.org

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