DDWS announces new hire
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) recently hired Jeff Decker as philanthropic director in its mission to support education, conservation, wildlife, land acquisition, and research at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.
A self-designated native of Santa Monica, California, and graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, he moved to Sanibel with his wife in April to be near family as they start a family. Decker has a strong career background in creative relations and content writing at many levels, including screenplays and the entertainment industry. He and his wife own and operate I Heart 575 social media marketing.
At the refuge, Decker will collaborate with DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman and the team in cultivating relationships with donors, businesses, organizations, and other partners.
“I most enjoy fostering relationships with donors to help them realize their goals and integrate them into the DDWS family, which provides educational services to nearly 14,000 children per year at Title I schools as well as those who come on field trips to the refuge,” he said. “The staff is amazing here. It’s inspiring to be around others who are so passionate about what they do and are committed to the cause.”
Decker hopes to explore new and enhance current relationships with individuals and businesses to expand the charitable work of the DDWS in creating future stewards to continue the refuge’s mission of providing safe haven for the island’s wildlife.
“Jeff has demonstrated his prowess in business partnerships through a variety of accomplishments with clients and partners — from fellow employees to artists and celebrities,” Wildman said. “Here at ‘Ding,’ he continues to forge paths at the intersection of business, storytelling, and networking using his rich blend of skills and industry insights to drive impact and foster meaningful relationships.”