Devin Pappas’ Philanthropic Work Unites, Uplifts Community

Longtime Harbor Bluffs resident Devin Pappas helps create a culture of caring that encourages others to give by increasing awareness and connectivity for lasting community impact.

Devin Pappas, a longtime Harbor Bluffs resident, is a shining example of the true meaning of philanthropy through her incredible ability to bring the community together and motivate change that uplifts those around her. Devin helps create a culture of caring that encourages others to give by increasing awareness and connectivity for lasting community impact.

Devin has significantly impacted Pinellas County during the 12 years she has lived here. In 2015, she chaired the first RCS Grand Gala, one of her first projects in this area. Her retail management background helped deliver success, resulting in the event raising over $200,000. Conceived as a one-time fundraiser, the gala has scaled into an annual event that has raised over $1 million to address hunger, housing, and abuse.

When PCF asked Devin how she accomplished so much, she responded that it comes naturally to her. Since she was little, she has been networking, bringing people together, and helping others. She hopes her action inspires people to get into philanthropy however they feel comfortable. Devin believes the most significant barrier to giving is simply a lack of awareness. “People want to do right, and they want to give, and they want to donate, and they want to help; they just don’t know how.” It’s common for people to equate philanthropy with writing a check, but Devin urges everyone to open their minds to understand philanthropy better. She believes the best way to get people involved is by giving them a path, saying, “It’s about communicating. You have to spend time with people and let them know how they can help.” That also means letting volunteers know they are appreciated and that every little bit, even hanging up flyers or collecting canned food, is valuable.

Philanthropy and support are tenants of her upcoming program, Help Inspire Men (HIM). The HIM program will include the Pathways to Business Fundamentals curriculum Devin developed, support, resources, fellowship, and mentorship to men in our communities. Men need to know it’s OK not to be OK, and our communities need to provide safe spaces for support and resources. Highlighting healthy alternatives for managing stress and outlining pathways for collaboration and community impact are components of the program that have worked well for female audiences. Devin is passionate about achieving similar results with male participants. Business acumen must balance with a fuller picture of a community’s needs and opportunities for individual contributions.

Devin excels in outlining a path, enhancing knowledge, and bringing people closer through civic engagement. One of her biggest successes was creating Stroll Harbor Bluffs magazine, a platform to showcase local stores, organizations, and business owners, and building community and connections.

Throughout all of Devin’s enterprises, fundraisers, and events, she has never worked alone. When it comes to philanthropy, the importance of connection can never be understated. She explains, “I’ve always believed in teams; I’ve always believed you can’t do it yourself. I’m not afraid to ask my husband or my friends for help. We need to do this together; not one person can do it.” Devin’s life shows us that when people come together within a culture of caring, it builds a strong, resilient, and prosperous community.

PCF appreciates Devin and the Raising Relief team for sharing their culture of caring with us. Their commitment to philanthropy and service is absolutely inspiring.