The Board
Debbie
Founder
Debbie is the Co-Founder and CEO of Jalisco International Import, Inc.; a minority woman owned business that produces and owns the ultra-premium tequila brand, Señor Rio Tequila. Prior to being an entrepreneur, she worked for over 2 decades in the Banking and Real Estate industries. During that time Debbie developed her love of connecting with and helping families achieve their dream of homeownership.
Debbie believes in family first and loves learning about the people who cross her path. She is the second oldest of 7 children raised by a single mother who did the best she could while dealing with manic depression. She grew up with hope, the love of a doting grandmother, and public assistance. As a family in need, Debbie and her siblings lived on welfare, food stamps, and free medical care. She is grateful for the assistance they received and vowed to give back because of that experience.
Giving back is one of the passions that lives deep in Debbie’s core, and as a result she is committed to helping others, especially children because she feels they are such a beautiful gift. As a grandmother to 5 amazing grandchildren, she cherishes her time with each and every one of them. Her twin granddaughters, Katalina and Klaudia, were born in 2015 and have been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Angelman Syndrome. While this was heartbreaking news for Debbie and her daughter, these special angels are a blessing to the entire family. Yes, they’ll face many challenges and need more help than most children, it’s their joy and spirit that’s inspired Debbie to start and dedicate We Care Crusade to them. She knows firsthand the struggles everyday life can bring to families of special needs children. We Care Crusade’s mission is to help these children and their families, one child at a time while putting families first!
Debbie is a baby boomer, widow, and entrepreneur who believes in philanthropy, charity, and improving the lives of others. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Debbie moved to Gilbert, Arizona in 2000, and has two beautiful daughters. When she’s not working she loves spending time with family and friends, meeting new people, and traveling.
Her favorite quotes are:
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Gandhi
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." - Matthew 7:12
![OnlinePhoto0721[11579].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/6c9d6d_1cbcbe258d81464f85c3f229369f2509~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_326,h_434,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/6c9d6d_1cbcbe258d81464f85c3f229369f2509~mv2.jpg)
Diana
Director
Diana is an entrepreneur and founder of Embracing Me Academy, an online personal development learning environment dedicated to helping others find their strength from within. She’s passionate about teaching people how to embrace who they are and achieve their dreams.
Prior to being an entrepreneur, Diana spent over 15 years working along with non-profit organizations to help them fulfill their missions and K-12 organizations supporting technology in the classroom. She’s proficient at using technology for process improvement and has a Master of Science in Training and Development. Her knowledge and experience helps Diana educate others by creating online learning environments that are simple and easy to use.
Because Diana is committed to giving back and helping those in need, she’s volunteered many hours to support causes that make a difference in people’s lives. It’s because of this commitment that she’s honored to be a member of the We Care Crusade board. Diana believes every child is a blessing and she’s dedicated to changing the lives of children and their families who need extra support.
Diana has been married to her wonderful husband for over 30 years, has an amazing son, a fantastic daughter, and 1 awesome granddaughter. After living many years in Joliet, IL she moved to Charleston, SC in 2005. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing at the beach, learning new things, and traveling to other places.
Her favorite quotes are:
“Everyone of us needs to show how much we care for each other and, in the process, care for ourselves.” – Diana, Princess of Wales
“If you’re always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be.” – Maya Angelou
Michael
Director
Michael is a Certified Automotive Technician specializing in the care and maintenance of Chevrolet vehicles. During his career, he’s received multiple awards and other certifications from General Motors making him a valued and dedicated member of the team. This dedication extends to his community where Michael served as President of the Park Board, Billings Lodge AFAM Master, President of the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Bowlers, and Captain of the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Clowns.
Michael’s real passion is being the Shrine Clown “Grease Monkey” who entertains and makes balloon animals for children. He also enjoys participating in fundraising events to help sponsor children in need of assistance from Shriners Hospitals for Children. Michael has personally sponsored treatment for 4 children so they could receive care that may not have been available to them. Michael loves entertaining children, knowing that Grease Monkey brings joy and laughter to a child who may be having a difficult time.
Due to his love of helping children, it was an easy decision for Michael to join the board of We Care Crusade. He knows first-hand how the little things can make such a big difference in a child’s life. His commitment to making others laugh and feel good is what inspired Michael to take an active role in enhancing the lives of children with special needs and their families.
Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, Michael is the youngest of 7. He moved to Battlefield, Missouri in 1995 where he met his wonderful wife Lesa. They have a son Timothy, who’s also a Shrine Clown. When he’s not working and volunteering his time helping children; Michael enjoys bowling, golf, and traveling to the Caribbean hanging out in his favorite place…Belize!
Michael’s favorite quotes are:
“When it’s cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile” -Rascal Flatts
"No man stands so tall as when he is helping a child” – Abraham Lincoln