Deb Lavender Website: https://www.upballot.com/deb-lavender While serving in the legislature, Deb found her place working on the Budget Committee to find and distribute hidden money to the areas throughout our state that needed it the most. She was able to work across the aisle to increase funding for people living at home with disabilities, mental health needs, utility assistance, and was able to amend the budget to include 15 million for broadband expansion. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done to assure our tax dollars are working for Missourians, and Deb is widely recognized as the best person to get this done. Deb takes an active part in the community, working as a health care professional and local businesswoman. As a physical therapist and sole owner of an outpatient physical therapy clinic, Deb has built her professional reputation based on results. She is recognized as a leader in her field, receiving referrals from around the region.Born and raised in New England, Deb put herself through college at Marquette University in Milwaukee, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. Soon after graduation, Deb moved to St. Louis and now has deep roots in our community.Deb's interest in politics was first sparked as a teenager when she participated in Girls State, a program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. There, she learned the importance and value of democratic government. In the following years, she put her energy and enthusiasm for politics to work by becoming involved in local and state issues.Before being elected, Deb worked the halls of the state capitol in Jefferson City to garner support for issues important to her and the people in her community. In 2006, she channeled her passion and skill for government into an internship for State Representative Barbara Fraser.Deb had the great opportunity to participate in raising her nephew, Griffin, and is very proud of the man he has become and enjoys time with him and his growing family.As an active leader and consistent volunteer in community service and community improvement endeavors, Deb participates in the following organizations:Member of Rotary International since 1985Women’s Political CaucusBoard of Directors, Mary Culver Home for the Visually Impaired 2010-202050 Trees for 50 Years, Volunteer - (Kirkwood – 2011-2019)Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice, MemberAmerican Physical Therapy Association, MemberMissouri Physical Therapy Association, Member