During our Annual Meeting we were able to honor retiring Board Member Maria Wilcox.
Maria’s journey with Family & Children’s Agency is one that truly exemplifies dedication, unwavering commitment, and a passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Maria’s connection with FCA began in 2007 when she generously volunteered her time and resources. This introduction was facilitated by our former Board Vice-Chair, Sheryl Williams, who recognized in Maria the potential for a profound impact. And she was right.
In October of 2009, Maria officially joined the Family & Children’s Agency Board of Directors, setting in motion a journey that would span over a decade. Throughout her tenure on the Board, Maria immersed herself in every facet of our work, participating in numerous committees and taskforces, including Board Governance, Finance, Fund Development, Adult and Seniors Program Committee, Facilities, Merger and Acquisition Taskforce, Friends of FCA Committee, the Communications Workgroup, and Board Executive Committee. In every discussion, she brought sound wisdom, unwavering judgment, and her invaluable financial expertise, which has been a true asset to our agency.
But Maria’s contributions did not stop there. She extended her generosity to our clients, donating Thanksgiving turkeys, delivering fresh fruit to clients experiencing homelessness, and held a gathering at her home to showcase volunteer opportunities at FCA. She donated raffle items for various FCA events and has been a regular sponsor of our Golf & Tennis Classic. In addition, she and her husband, Tom, have been exceptionally generous financial supporters of FCA. She has demonstrated the spirit of giving in every possible way.
Perhaps one of Maria’s most outstanding contributions was her instrumental role in our annual IMAGINE event. She served as the Chair an incredible seven times, leading our fundraising efforts to achieve enormous successes each year.
In 2012, she took on the role of Vice-Chair, and later, in 2019, she assumed the position of Board Chair. One of the most defining chapters of Maria’s tenure on the Board of Directors was her role in guiding FCA through the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership proved to be invaluable as we navigated uncharted waters of not only health-related challenges but also complex financial situations that required sound decision-making.
It’s not only Maria who has made a significant impact on our agency; Tom and their sons, Tony and Mickey, have embraced the value of giving back to those in need.
As Maria transitions from the Board of Directors, we want to express our deepest gratitude for her enduring commitment, unwavering dedication, and profound impact on Family & Children’s Agency. She leaves a legacy of compassion, leadership, and a commitment to our mission.
Maria, on behalf of the Board, staff, volunteers, and the countless lives you’ve touched, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for everything you’ve done. Your work has made a profound difference, and your spirit will forever be a part of the Family & Children’s Agency. Thank you for being a true champion of our cause.
