Patricia Swanson: Difference Maker In The Community
DETROIT (WWJ) - From empty nest to full hearts. In 2007 Patricia Swanson of Canton had all of her kids out of her house and was looking for a way to give back and her daughter-in-law Lisa Swanson says that's how Chicks for Charities started.
About 25 women gather together with the idea to do good.
"My mother had actually just gone through breast cancer, and she was at the patient care at St. Joseph's Cancer Care Center and we decided to do an event for them," Lisa said. "Just on a whim, something to give back to them for being so good to my mom."
That first event raised $10,000 - since then they've put in 75,000 volunteer hours for various non-profits.
Their latest mission?
We found out about a mother and her three teenage triplet daughters that were homeless. They had run from an abusive father with just the closes on their back. City mission had put them in a house but they were all sleeping on the floor - it had no furniture.
"So the 'Chicks' got together and we decided we were going to help them furnish the house," said Lisa.
Chicks for Charity members range in age from 25 -80 plus.
"This is definitely the right thing - we are making a difference and I know it," said Lisa.
Find out more about Chicks for Charity HERE.
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Do you know someone in your community that has made a difference to benefit others? WWJ Newsradio 950 is seeking out individuals who are making a difference, big or small - people who have inspired positive change and those who have made an impact in the community.
Each month, WWJ will honor a person as the Difference Maker in the Community. This person will be highlighted on-air and on cbsdetroit.com for their positive contributions. All monthly Difference Makers will be invited to join at a special luncheon in the spring of 2013 to recognize the positive contributions.
Click here to nominate someone you know.
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