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.

Denika Kisty is a former All-American javelin thrower, a University of Florida graduate, and the wife of NBA champion Jason Williams. Known for her athletic achievements and strong family values, Denika is also a supportive mother and an advocate for youth sports.

She is admired not only for her early success in athletics but also for the calm, grounded presence she brings to her family and community.

Quick Facts

From Pennsylvania Roots to National Recognition

Early Life and Passion for Sports

Denika Kisty was born in 1977 and raised in Brentwood, Pennsylvania. From a young age, she was drawn to sports—especially track and field. Her talent in javelin and discus became clear during high school, where she quickly rose to become a state champion.

In 1994, Denika captured gold in both javelin and discus at the District 11 AA championships. Her drive, focus, and natural athleticism set her apart even then.

The Gator Years: Collegiate Athlete and Academic

Denika earned a scholarship to the University of Florida, one of the top athletic programs in the country. There, she joined the Florida Gators track and field team and became an NCAA All-American in javelin.

Her personal best—over 160 feet—placed her among the top 10 javelin throwers in the United States at the time. But her college years weren’t just about medals. They were also about self-control, guiding others, and personal development.

A Life in Partnership: Meeting Jason Williams

Love on Campus

It was at the University of Florida that Denika met Jason Williams, a rising basketball star known for his flair and creativity on the court. Their connection grew steadily, grounded in mutual respect and shared ambition.

Unlike many high-profile relationships, theirs unfolded quietly. They dated through their college years and eventually married in September 2003.

Behind the NBA Curtain

When Jason was drafted into the NBA and launched a high-profile professional career, Denika stepped into a new role—not just as his wife, but as a grounding force through seasons of change.

As Jason traveled the country and won a championship with the Miami Heat in 2006, Denika maintained a steady home environment. She managed the demands of public life with grace, always keeping her family at the center.

The Family They Built

Raising the Next Generation

Denika and Jason have three kids: Jaxon, Mia, and Nina. Like their parents, all three have embraced sports.

• Jaxon Williams is an emerging basketball talent, following closely in his father’s footsteps with his own creative playing style.

• Mia Williams has become a standout softball player and is part of the Florida Gators roster, representing the same university her parents once did.

• Nina Williams, the youngest, is already showing talent in both tennis and softball.
  

Denika has supported each child’s journey with a calm, steady presence—encouraging discipline, teamwork, and self-belief.

Balancing Fame and Family

Denika has always preferred to stay out of the limelight. Despite being married to a well-known athlete, she has managed to live a life rooted in privacy, integrity, and intentional parenting.

She represents the idea that strength isn’t always noisy. Sometimes, it’s quiet support that makes all the difference.

Beyond the Home: Community and Mentorship

Quiet Advocacy for Young Athletes

Though she no longer competes, Denika remains involved in youth sports. She occasionally speaks at community events and supports programs that promote confidence and health through physical activity.

She especially encourages young girls to pursue sports, helping them see that athleticism isn’t just about winning—it’s about learning, growing, and finding your voice.

Values That Endure

Denika’s story is one of values—discipline, family, humility, and service. She brings the same focus that made her a top athlete into her roles as a mother, wife, and mentor.

Her legacy isn’t written in headlines, but in the character of the children she’s raised and the lives she quietly uplifts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Denika Kisty?

Denika Kisty was born in 1977, making her approximately 47–48 years old.

What was Denika Kisty’s sport?

She was an All-American javelin thrower and a member of the University of Florida track and field team.

Who is Denika Kisty’s husband?

She is married to Jason Williams, a former NBA point guard best known for his time with the Sacramento Kings and Miami Heat.

Does she still work in sports?

While not a public figure in professional athletics, Denika supports her children’s athletic careers and participates in youth sports and mentoring.

Where does she live?

Denika and her family reside in Florida, where they maintain a relatively private lifestyle focused on family and personal growth.

Final Reflection: A Life of Quiet Impact

Denika Kisty’s story reminds us that success takes many forms. From athletic glory to emotional strength, from national rankings to nurturing a home—she has lived each chapter with purpose and poise.

In a world often dominated by flash and attention, Denika stands as an example of calm leadership and enduring impact. Her journey demonstrates that you don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to be the most influential one.