I met FACES almost 20 years ago, while creating a brochure for them. During the process of designing the brochure, I researched people with facial disfigurement and read their stories. My heart connected instantly.
I ride a motorcycle and have ridden in a lot of charity rides. At the same time I was learning about FACES I was also searching for "my" charity that I would feel good about supporting. A non-profit who didn't have a fancy office so that I knew that what I was giving was going to really help someone and not line someone's pockets.
When I walked into the FACES office the very first time, I knew I had found "My" charity. The office was itty bitty and in an old brick building that had seen its better days. The furniture was scarred and worn, but two bright shiny faces welcomed me. Just two people to help children and adults across the United States and around the world... They needed me!
Soon after the visit to the office, I was asked to help FACES start a motorcycle ride in Chattanooga, TN. We did - FACES Ride 4 Smiles, which was a huge success in not only helping to raise funds for FACES, but bringing awareness to facial differences whether it's from birth, disease, or accident and the challenges they face. After the first Ride 4 Smiles, I was invited onto the FACES Board and served over 7 years which I loved. When the communications director position came open in 2012 I was thrilled to officially join the FACES Team!
Fast forward to 2020, I am now president of FACES and feel like FACES is my family . FACES is still small with only two full-time staff, one part-time assistant, and one FACES Camp Counselor, but we’re changing lives and making a difference!
The FACES community is like none other and the work that they do is incredibly important and so valued by our Craniofacial families! When you’re with FACES you’re home.