KHQA's Hometown Hero making a difference in children's lives

QUINCY, Ill. (KHQA) — Friday, with the help of Peters Heating and Air Conditioning and Hilbing Autobody, KHQA got the chance to recognize a local woman for her continued innovation and drive in helping better the lives of children and their parents though education.

For the past 28 years -- Dr. Debbie Reed has been a leader at Chaddock school in Quincy, and for the last 17 she’s been in her current role as President/CEO.

According to her coworkers, it is because of Dr. Reed’s expertise, innovative mindset and ability to lead that Chaddock has grown to be well known all over the world.

Judy Miller has been Dr. Reed’s right-hand woman and administrative assistant for 16 years. She nominated her colleague for the Hometown Hero award.

“Debbie’s passion here at Chaddock is wonderful,” said Miller “She strives to help the children and families here at Chaddock and all though the community. When she goes out and has to speak, she tells the Chaddock story.”

As founder and facilitator of the nonprofit leadership academy, Dr. Reed has trained, consulted with and coached current and emerging leaders from dozens of nonprofit organizations.

Her husband, Brennan Reed, says he has watched her excel at every goal she sets.

“Debbie has such a drive for Chaddock and developing the community for Chaddock but also the Quincy community.” Reed said, “She is very involved in the chamber and all of the activities in Quincy.”

Dr. Reed has given back locally by serving on several community boards on state and national levels.

Dr. Reed has served as chair of the national board of the United Methodist Association, on the board of the Illinois Great Rivers Alliance, and on the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Child Welfare Advisory Committee.

Locally, Dr. Reed has served as the Board Chair for the Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce.

Additionally, Dr. Reed co-authored a book “Raising the Challenging Child” with Karen Doyle Buckwalter which was published in January 2020.

“It’s a way to try and help parents that might be struggling with their child,” said Dr. Reed “Not that they have a bad child by any stretch, but kids are challenging so a few tips that we can give to parents and families to maybe make that a little easier. Anyway that we can help parents do the most incredible job there is, we want to try and do that.”

The Chaddock vision is “a world where every person matters, relationships are valued, and healing and change are possible.”

Dr. Debbie Reed lives out that vision each day and her dedication to the betterment of others, earning her the title of Hometown Hero.