The San Francisco County government meeting on July 1, 2025, highlighted a significant moment as Debbie Lerman was honored for her remarkable contributions to the community upon her retirement. After over two decades as the director of the San Francisco Human Services Network, Lerman's advocacy and leadership have left a lasting impact on the city's nonprofit sector.

During the meeting, Lerman was commended for her role in leading a coalition of nearly 80 nonprofit health and human service providers. Under her guidance, the network became a trusted advocate for fair funding and effective policy, especially during challenging budget crises. Her efforts have shaped the values that underpin San Francisco's human services funding framework, ensuring critical services remain intact.

In her farewell speech, Lerman expressed concern about the current state of partnerships between nonprofits, government, and the philanthropic sector, noting that recent budget cuts and political pressures threaten these vital relationships. She emphasized the importance of sustaining nonprofit organizations, which she described as treasures that must be preserved to prevent harm to the communities they serve.

Lerman also highlighted the struggles faced by frontline workers in the nonprofit sector, advocating for better wages and support. She reflected on her own experiences in the field, underscoring the need for a renewed commitment from the city to invest in these essential services.

As she transitions from her role, Lerman expressed gratitude to her colleagues, the founders of the Human Services Network, and the new leadership stepping in to continue the work. Her legacy of advocacy and dedication to social justice will undoubtedly influence the future of San Francisco's human services landscape.