Deborah Oree, our Corporate Director of Training here at Kintock, believes, “Nothing is impossible when you are part of a good team with good leadership.”

Deborah first joined Kintock in 1988 as an employment counselor with a simple desire - to do something to help others.

"Kintock's founder David Fawkner believed that those who found themselves in the criminal justice system would be able to make real changes in their lives if they were given the assistance and right resources to overcome the cycle of recidivism," explains Deborah. "I, too, wanted to help individuals - but I wasn't quite sure what that would look like in terms of a long-term career."

In the early days of Kintock, there was only a small staff of only 5-6 employees, including Deborah, all working on one floor of a factory building in Philadelphia. While each employee came from different backgrounds, they shared a common desire - to help others and make a real, lasting impact on their lives.

"We would share the excitement of knowing that a client secured employment and started on a path to self-sufficiency," said Deborah. "Similarly, we would also support one another when we encountered challenging situations or if a client just wasn't quite ready to move forward on their reentry journey. We leaned on each other for help, support and guidance – all so that we could better help our clients."

This supportive environment fostered real camaraderie between Deborah and her colleagues – creating a close-knit "family" atmosphere that has served as the foundation for Kintock's continued growth over the years.

"From that environment, Kintock has become one of the leading organizations providing reentry services across the region. I am grateful to have been here to watch us grow, now with over 300 employees and serving more than 1,500 clients daily. Truly, what a transformation!"

But it's not just Kintock that has evolved – Deborah herself has transformed, too.

During her tenure, she continued to refine her skills, build relationships and take on various leadership positions, including Corporate Director of Kintock's Employment Services Program. She is also credited for establishing the Employment Resource Center (ERC) that still operates today at each Kintock facility and was responsible for the rollout of Kintock's SmarterU – a web-based training platform designed to simplify onboarding, enhance efficiency, and increase accessibility.

And who does Deborah credit both her and Kintock’s success all these years? The individuals – both clients and colleagues – who are at the heart of the organization.

“From those who work day-to-day at our sites to the entire executive team, we all share a commitment to provide quality services to our clients. I personally have benefitted from my colleagues who have shared their wisdom and knowledge with me – each one a shining example of professionalism, and imparting valuable lessons in a challenging, yet rewarding line of work.”

Since those early days of wearing multiple hats to now shaping strategy at the highest level, Deborah has helped build what Kintock is today – rooted in integrity, innovation, and commitment. She remains a steady force, valued mentor, and visionary leader to us all – and for that, we are incredibly grateful.

"Working for Kintock is not just a job – it is a commitment to making our world a better place. I can hardly believe it has been 35 years, but am so happy to be part of the organization Kintock has become.”