Is a woman who helped search for orphans considered deserving of a portion of the Zakat, and is it permissible to give her money with the intention of charity if she is deserving of Zakat?

The woman mentioned is not considered among the zakat (definition) collectors merely because she points out those in need. A collector (amil) is someone appointed by the ruler to collect and safeguard zakat. What you did by giving her charity and rewarding her is correct and will be rewarded. If she is in need, she is eligible for zakat due to her poverty. However, what was given to her with the intention of voluntary charity is not considered zakat, as the intention for zakat is a prerequisite at the time of giving it out.