Catherine Carabetta is a nonprofit strategist and philanthropy consultant known for helping organizations develop sustainable, ethical, and mission-aligned fundraising programs. With a background in grantmaking, policy, and donor engagement, she blends practical expertise with a human-centered approach to drive long-term impact in the social sector.

Building a Career in Purpose-Driven Leadership

Early Foundations in Service

Catherine’s commitment to social good began with her academic path. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, followed by a Master’s in Government and Politics from Loyola University Chicago.

Her early career included roles at the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Brookings Institution, and the U.S. Senate—a trifecta that gave her firsthand experience with how policy, public service, and philanthropy intersect.

From Grantmaker to Change-Maker

Catherine stepped into the philanthropic world as a Senior Program Officer at Prince Charitable Trusts, where she led grantmaking in areas such as early childhood education, homelessness prevention, and community development.

Rather than simply awarding funds, she worked closely with nonprofit partners to ensure the grants were thoughtful, targeted, and aligned with real-world needs. This grounded, collaborative approach has become a hallmark of her work ever since.

Advancing Standards in the Nonprofit Sector

Ethical Leadership at Donors Forum

As a leader at Donors Forum (now Forefront), Catherine co-authored the Illinois Nonprofit Principles and Best Practices, a guide still used today to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical governance across the nonprofit sector.

This wasn’t just policy—it was a roadmap for trust. Catherine understands that healthy fundraising depends on the foundation of organizational integrity.

Bringing Strategy to Life at Fort Collins Museum

A Holistic View of Philanthropy

At the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Catherine worked as the Director of Philanthropy, managing donations from foundations, the government, businesses, and individuals.

She didn’t just manage donations—she created an entire philanthropic strategy. From grant writing to gala planning, donor outreach to impact reporting, she helped shape the museum’s public narrative and its financial health.

Creating Meaningful Donor Experiences

One of Catherine’s standout successes was the Beyond Discovery Benefit, a museum-themed fundraising event designed to bring donors closer to the mission. The result was more than a boost in funding—it deepened relationships and inspired long-term support.

That’s a key part of Catherine’s philosophy: fundraising is more than a transaction—it’s a relationship.

What Makes Catherine Carabetta’s Work Different

Values First

Catherine leads with clarity, ethics, and intention. She doesn’t chase trends or quick wins—she builds resilient systems and strong teams.

Vision with Structure

Whether coaching executive teams or guiding capital campaigns, Catherine balances big-picture thinking with clear, step-by-step execution.

Deep Listening

Every organization is different. Catherine takes time to understand each nonprofit’s culture, goals, and community—then tailors strategies to fit.

Consulting for Purpose and Progress

Today, Catherine serves as a Senior Consultant at Philanthropy Expert, where she helps organizations build smarter fundraising programs.

Her work includes:

• Strategic planning for capital and annual campaigns

• Board and staff training on donor relations

• Grant strategy development

• Culture-building around stewardship and transparency

She works closely with museums, education institutions, health nonprofits, and grassroots organizations alike.

Personal Life and Daily Values

Catherine lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she enjoys running, biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Her personal life reflects the same values she brings to her work: balance, integrity, and meaningful connection.

Why Her Leadership Matters Today

In a time when many nonprofits face burnout, uncertainty, and funding gaps, Catherine offers steadiness.

She reminds us that:

• Fundraising should feel aligned with mission

• Leadership begins with values

• Donor relationships are built on trust, not pressure

Her guidance helps nonprofits move from survival mode to long-term sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Catherine Carabetta is more than a consultant—she’s a guide for mission-driven organizations, helping them navigate the complex, ever-changing world of philanthropy with grace and strategy.

Through every stage of her career, from policymaker to grantmaker to strategist, Catherine has shown how quiet leadership can create lasting impact. She doesn’t seek the spotlight—but her work ensures others can shine.

For nonprofits looking to lead with clarity, connect with community, and raise funds with purpose, Catherine Carabetta is a name to know—and a partner to trust.

Zoe Bearse is an American audio editor best known as the adopted daughter of actress and director Amanda Bearse. While her family ties connect her to Hollywood, Zoe has carved her own professional identity behind the scenes, working in sound editing and creative production. She lives a deeply private, purpose-driven life focused on craft, not celebrity.

Quick Facts: Zoe Bearse

A Grounded Beginning

In 1993, Amanda Bearse adopted Zoe at the height of her television career. Known for her role as Marcy D’Arcy on Married… with Children, Amanda had recently made headlines as one of the first openly gay actresses in Hollywood.

Adopting Zoe marked a significant life shift. Amanda stepped back from the limelight to focus on family, offering Zoe a home rooted in love, integrity, and courage. Together with her partner and later wife, Carrie Schenken, Amanda raised Zoe in a stable, grounded environment far from paparazzi and public pressure.

A Childhood Built on Balance

Zoe spent her early years in Washington State, where education and balance were top priorities. She was raised to value thoughtfulness, creativity, and privacy—a rare trio in celebrity households.

This upbringing helped Zoe develop a strong inner compass. Her early exposure to film sets and sound stages was never about glamor—it was about process and purpose. That early influence would later shape her career choice.

Education at Evergreen State College

Zoe pursued higher education at The Evergreen State College, a liberal arts school known for its interdisciplinary and student-led learning model. There, she studied Arts, Entertainment, and Media—a perfect fit for someone drawn to story, sound, and behind-the-scenes creation.

Evergreen gave Zoe the tools to think critically, work independently, and collaborate across disciplines. It was here she sharpened her skills in media production, particularly audio editing—transforming raw sound into meaningful narrative.

A Career in Audio Editing

After graduating, Zoe joined Shamer Associates in 2017, a media and sound editing firm known for its creative flexibility and client-first approach. At Shamer, she quickly established herself as a capable and reliable editor.

Zoe works with both Apple and Windows audio systems, bringing strong technical skill to every project. From podcasts to promotional videos, her work helps craft clear, emotionally resonant audio experiences.

Clients value her for her quiet focus, strong work ethic, and creative instincts. Zoe isn’t loud—but her work speaks volumes.

Choosing Privacy Over Publicity

Unlike many who grow up connected to Hollywood, Zoe has made an intentional choice to live privately. She has no public social media profiles, rarely appears in media, and doesn’t seek out interviews or publicity.

This decision isn’t rooted in fear—it’s rooted in clarity. Zoe knows who she is and what matters to her. Fame was never the goal. Integrity, independence, and meaningful contribution were.

In a world that often equates visibility with success, Zoe Bearse offers a different kind of inspiration: the strength to stay true to yourself, even when the world is watching.

Family Ties That Inspire, Not Define

Though she stays out of the spotlight, Zoe has spoken through actions about the respect and admiration she holds for her family. Amanda Bearse was not only a sitcom star, but also a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ visibility and an accomplished director.

Carrie Schenken, Zoe’s other parent, worked in the film industry as a camera technician. Together, Amanda and Carrie provided Zoe with both a technical appreciation for the creative process and a lived example of principled, values-driven lives.

Zoe’s family has always been about purpose—not popularity. That influence shows in how she moves through the world.

Achievements Beyond the Headlines

While Zoe may not be a celebrity, she has achieved financial and professional independence through her work. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is around $300,000—a testament to her steady career in audio production.

More importantly, Zoe has built a professional reputation for consistency, care, and creativity. Audio editing may not win awards, but it is essential. It shapes how we hear, feel, and remember media—and Zoe plays a vital role in making that magic happen.

What Makes Zoe’s Story Stand Out?

• Clarity of Purpose: From early on, Zoe knew she didn’t want to be famous—she wanted to be excellent at something that mattered to her.

• Emotional Intelligence: She’s handled the unique pressures of being in a public family with grace and discretion.

• Creative Contribution: Her work in sound helps others tell their stories more clearly—making her a force in her own right.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Zoe Bearse do for a living?

Zoe is an audio editor at Shamer Associates, working on various multimedia projects including podcasts, promos, and nonprofit campaigns.

Is Zoe Bearse related to Amanda Bearse?

Yes, she is the adopted daughter of Amanda Bearse, an actress and director known for her role on Married… with Children.

Does Zoe Bearse use social media?

No. Zoe maintains a private lifestyle and does not have public social media accounts.

Where did Zoe Bearse go to college?

She graduated from The Evergreen State College in Washington State.

What is Zoe Bearse’s net worth?

As of 2023, Zoe’s estimated net worth is approximately $300,000, earned through her career in audio editing.

A Legacy of Her Own

Zoe Bearse proves that not all impactful lives need a platform. She may not have headlines or hashtags, but she has something far more valuable: a clear sense of self and a life of her own design.

She chose her lane—quiet, focused, meaningful—and she excels in it.

In a world obsessed with visibility, Zoe reminds us that privacy is power. That excellence speaks even without applause. That being seen is not the same as being fulfilled.

And perhaps most powerfully, she shows us that you don’t have to follow a famous path to create a legacy of your own.

Aiden Langston was a bright, kind-hearted young man from Utah who lived with spirit, served with intention, and loved without reserve. On May 30, 2024—just hours before receiving his high school diploma—Aiden tragically lost his life in a car accident.

He was only 17. But in that short time, Aiden built a life filled with joy, loyalty, dreams, and genuine impact. His memory now lives on in the hearts of family, friends, and a community that deeply mourns his absence while celebrating the legacy he left behind.

Born to Shine: Aiden’s Early Years in Utah

Spencer Aiden Langston was born on July 11, 2006, in Murray, Utah. He grew up in Herriman, where he was part of a loving and blended family that shaped his strong values and big heart.

As a child, Aiden was endlessly curious and creative. He spent hours building intricate Lego sets, sketching imaginative drawings, and reading everything he could about dinosaurs, machines, and the world beyond.

He was the kind of kid who lit up a room with his laughter and filled it with questions. Whether it was inventing games with his sister or trying to convince his dad to allow a cat in the house (unsuccessfully, but persistently), Aiden approached life with charm, humor, and a disarming honesty.

The Heart of a Friend, the Hands of a Builder

Aiden was driven by connection—and passion. While his friends describe him as someone who would “always say hi in the hallways,” those closest to him knew the depth of his loyalty.

He was a fierce protector of his older sister, a dependable helper to his parents, and an unshakable friend to anyone lucky enough to earn his trust. Loyalty wasn’t a quality Aiden had to work on—it came naturally.

That same loyalty extended to his passions.

Most notably, Aiden loved cars. Not just driving them—building, fixing, and reimagining them. He worked at Jiffy Lube, where he picked up hands-on mechanical skills and quickly became a go-to for friends needing car advice. From tuning engines to customizing parts for speed, power, and (loud) personality, he poured himself into every detail.

He bought, traded, and modified multiple cars before age 18—including one car for everyday drives and another “just for snowboarding trips.” Practical and passionate: that was Aiden.

The Athlete with Drive—and No Fear

Aiden’s love for movement extended beyond engines.

He was a gifted athlete who played soccer, flag football, and eventually discovered his deep love for rugby. Despite his smaller frame, he took on opponents twice his size without hesitation. Tackling was never a problem—backing down wasn’t in his nature.

His tenacity on the field mirrored his resilience in life. Every bruise, bump, and ache during rugby season became a point of pride. He played hard, and he cared harder.

Family, Laughter, and Ghost Peppers

While Aiden was bold in the world, he was deeply tender at home. He had a unique and meaningful bond with his mother, often opening up to her about friends, love, challenges, and goals. Their bond was based on trust and many talks.

With his siblings and dad, he was the spark that got games going, the loudest voice in the room, and the brave soul who always said “yes” to a dare. Whether it was a snow sprint, a horror movie marathon, or eating an entire ghost pepper (a decision he quickly regretted), Aiden lived to make memories—and to make others laugh.

Family game nights, long hot tub talks, and backyard adventures were his comfort zone. He wasn’t just fun; he was full of heart.

Answering the Call: Aiden’s Military Dream

Aiden had always admired the military. As he grew older, that admiration transformed into action.

As soon as he turned 17, he joined the United States Navy. He was scheduled to begin basic training on June 25, 2024—just weeks after his high school graduation.

His dream? To become an underwater welder. The job was dangerous and demanding, but it excited him. It combined his love for mechanics with his thirst for challenge and service.

Mentored by Petty Officer Kizer, Aiden was already being shaped into a sailor of grit, heart, and potential. His commitment wasn’t just to the Navy—it was to growth, discipline, and doing something meaningful with his life.

May 30, 2024: A Sudden Goodbye

On what should have been one of the happiest days of his life, disaster happened.

In the early morning of May 30, Aiden was in a deadly car crash. He was only hours away from walking across the stage at Herriman High School to receive his diploma.

The loss stunned the community. Graduation day became a day of mourning. Friends, classmates, teachers, and even strangers struggled to process a life cut so short—yet lived so fully.

Honoring a Life That Touched Many

In the days that followed, love poured in.

Many people came together for Aiden’s funeral on June 8, 2024, in Herriman. The chapel was full of stories—about his laughter, his loyalty, his jokes, and his kindness. The service was streamed online so those across the country could be part of the remembrance.

A GoFundMe campaign was started to help his family. Social media filled with photos, tributes, and memories. Herriman High students wore ribbons and shared personal stories. His rugby team played in his honor. Some community members, touched by his story though they had never met him, posted heartfelt messages about how Aiden’s spirit reached them through words alone.

A Legacy That Won’t Fade

Aiden Langston’s life, though short, was very significant.

He taught those around him to be real.

To laugh often, to show up. To chase what lights you up, to be fully yourself, even if that self is loud, goofy, and determined to test a ghost pepper.

He leaves behind his parents—Gary and Kristen—his beloved sister Sydney, his step-siblings, grandparents, and a wide web of friends and mentors who will never forget him.

Why His Story Matters

Aiden’s story is more than a tragedy. It’s a reflection of what matters most: relationships, resilience, and purpose.

He reminds us that every day counts. That even at 17, you can change lives. That kindness is never wasted. That dreams are worth chasing, and people are worth loving—with everything you have.

His story has sparked conversations about youth, road safety, community support, and how we honor the legacies of those we lose too soon.

Final Thoughts: Live Like Aiden

The name Aiden Langston Utah is now etched not only on headstones and memorials—but in the hearts of those who knew him and even those who didn’t.

It carries a message: Live boldly. Love deeply. Stay true.

Whether you’re a friend, a neighbor, or someone who came across his story online, Aiden reminds us that being present, being kind, and being fearless in who you are can leave a mark that never fades.

Let’s live for Aiden. Let’s remember him not just in grief—but in how we live.