About Us

Deborrah Jeffreys Gruder / founder & executive director
Even though the idea for Scott-Free was born out of the willingness and actions of one, its success will be realized because of the enthusiasm and generosity of an entire community who stepped in to make sure that a child would know the fun, freedom and camaraderie of a camp environment. For many years Deborrah has participated in non-profit organizations to benefit others. Encouraging individuals and businesses to purchase and enjoy daffodils in late February, during the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days, proceeds to benefit those battling life threatening cancer. Deborrah was one of the original members of the Assistance League of the Triangle (ALTA), the organization that gave birth to Operation School Bell and for the past 7 years has been an active member of the Walnut Terrace Angel Tree, which provides Christmas for young children and is the sister organization to Scott-Free. both encouraging children to embark on “Journeys Urging Mammoth Possibilities.“
Leigh Adams White / founding board director
Leigh White is a native of Knightdale, North Carolina. Growing up, Leigh was a competitive soccer player and inline roller speed skater. Her love and drive for soccer enabled her to continue to play the sport at NC State University. Leigh received both her undergraduate degree and master's degree from NC State University. Leigh White lives in Clayton with her husband and their 2 year old daughter, Addison. Leigh is an assistant principal at Clayton Middle School. She has always had a passion for children and believes that all children can be successful. They may forget what you said but they will never forget how you made them feel.-Anonymous
Joni Porter / founding board director
Joni Porter is a personal trainer at o2Fitness, Raleigh, N.C. This is Joni's passion, and she is grateful about her life and work because she can wake up everyday and love what she does. It allows her to be creative and help give her clients a vision about their own bodies and health. Similarly with the Scott-Free project, she is excited to be a part of helping kids in need reach a goal that empowers them.
Joshua Gruder / board director
Joshua is a recent graduate of Loyola University New Orleans with a degree in Advertising, and a minor in marketing. Joshua has done volunteer work in Raleigh growing up as well as New Orleans during college. Joshua has developed the logo and other artistic work for Scott-Free as well as spearheading all internal and external marketing efforts. He is very excited to be a part of Scott-Free honoring his father and assisting children in their pursuit of a special experience.
Ashir Gruder / board director
Ashir Gruder is a television producer living in New York City. His work has appeared on The History Channel, The National Geographic Channel, A&E, The Bio Channel, SpeedTV and the Food Network. His passion for telling stories adds to his desire to help those less fortunate. Ashir is a valued member of the Scott-Free organization, as a consultant, promotional coordinator, and webmaster.
Michele Griffin / board director
Michele Griffin is a graduate of Meredith College with a degree in Interior Design and a minor in Art. She proudly joined the Scott Free board in 2009 with the desire to see each participant succeed to their fullest potential. She considers it an honor to sit with such a diverse group of people and be a part of making a difference, no matter how large or small..
Mike Riehle / board director & treasurer
Michael is currently works for Morgan Stanley as an IT Financial Analyst and he recently moved to Raleigh from New York City with his wife and two young sons. During high school, Mike was involved in band, drama and hockey. He still plays hockey every week and believes that athletic and artistic activities are a safe and positive force in young lives.
Michael Osborne / board director & publicist
Michael Osborne grew up in North Raleigh and was a close friend of Joshua and the rest of the Gruder family. He graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2007 with degrees in Journalism and English. Michael now works as a BlueCross BlueShield agent in Raleigh. He is putting his Journalism skills to use with Scott-Free by working on their Media Relations. His articles on Scott-Free have appeared several publications, including Mid-Town Magazine and Cary Living.

Go To Top