Paul Brainerd

Paul is a founding member of Social Venture Partners, which encourages individuals to give back to their communities by engaging philanthropists, strengthening nonprofits, and investing in collaborative solutions. Paul and his wife Debbi also co-founded IslandWood, an environmental learning center for schoolkids.

Paul is currently building a community development project in Glenorchy, New Zealand. The Headwaters embraces the Living Building Challenge to balance the built and natural environments. The campground and general store operate as sustainable businesses to serve both visitors and local residents. Profits from these operations flow to the Glenorchy Community Trust, which will invest in projects to enhance the vibrancy of the Glenorchy community.

Paul has also worked for years to create pro-conservation majorities in key local, state, and federal governing bodies. He enjoys hiking, backpacking, skiing, photography, and traveling.