MASK 2016 “Moms Making a Difference” Unity Award Presented to Michelle Moore-Fanger of Mother’s Grace
No one may understand the power of a mother’s grace more than Michelle Moore-Fanger. A busy mom and a corporate executive, she always found time to support other moms in need: moms whose families had been affected by Hurricane Katrina, moms with babies dying from AIDS, moms who simply needed a helping hand. Then in 2008, Michelle became one of those moms she worked tirelessly to help. She was diagnosed with a severe form of breast cancer and two weeks later her son was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. Over the next year and a half, Michelle endured chemo and five surgeries – all while teaching her son to be insulin dependent. Through it all, she continued to think of moms who were also dealing with their own challenges and through this, Mother’s Grace was born. The nonprofit organization supports moms with various needs, including financial assistance, medications, meals, childcare and counseling. According to Michelle there’s nothing they can’t do for a mom. “Everything that has happened has been divinely led,” she says. “I don’t have a goal. God has a plan for Mother’s Grace and I want to be led there.”
Over 175 people attended the 5th annual MASK “Moms Making a Difference” Unity Award Luncheon, where 42 inspiring women who are making a difference in the lives of children and families were celebrated. As mothers, it is not in our nature to highlight our work. The Unity Award was created to inform the community about the many resources available, and provides an opportunity for nominees to spread the word about their passion and causes.
MASK Founder and Publisher Kimberly Cabral and Emcee Catherine Anaya, Media Personality and CEO of 4Hearts Media, honored and awarded all 42 nominees. “Although very difficult, the selection process was rewarding,” said Cabral. “I was not a member of the panel of judges, however it was exciting for me to facilitate the process and share in the excitement of the panel while they learned about the many passionate women who are doing such incredible things.”