DEBORAH WILDER lives by the sign on her desk that says “Democracy is not a spectator sport.” She gives tirelessly as a volunteer, a public official and business woman. As a lawyer and business owner, Deborah represents the interests of small businesses in San Mateo County. Providing pro bono services to seniors and non-profit organizations, in one year alone she donated over $100,000 of legal work to keep the Palomar Park Volunteer Fire Station open. She has served on statewide boards and national non-profit associations which include Women Construction Owners & Executives, USA, Caltrans, Small Business Advisory Council and California Department of Corrections. She was a referee for AYSO for 9 years, board member of the San Mateo National Women’s Political Caucus and held many other positions of responsibility. She has been in Girl Scouts for over 25 years and helps conduct Boy Scout Merit Badge Classes. She teaches at her church on Sundays. She was elected to the Foster City Council in 1997 and Mayor in 1998 and 1999. Deborah was key to opening Foster City’s Teen Center, “The Vibe”, and she did everything from helping kids wash cars to paint. She has been honored for her work with women business owners, receiving the Phoenix Award, the highest national award given by Women Construction Owners and numerous local recognitions from scouting, soccer and professional organizations for her volunteer service. She has been married 22 years to her college sweetheart and has three wonderful children.
