For her many years of providing educational opportunities and advocacy for children of migrant families in Palm Beach County, Donna Marie Goray has been named the 2012 recipient of The Jim Moran Foundation Award.
With this honor, Goray received a $50,000 unrestricted grant for the Farmworker Children's Council, Inc. — the nonprofit of her choice — and a bronze sculpture created by South Florida artist George Gadson of an open book with a child climbing a ladder supported by an outstretched hand.
"Donna is an inspiring example of leading with commitment and heart," said Jan Moran, chairman and president of The Jim Moran Foundation. "I know my husband would want to recognize her for making a real difference in the lives of those children who have been impacted by her unconditional love, encouragement and guidance."
More than 30 years ago, Goray began volunteering in a migrant housing community through her church. Inspired by the hard working families they served, Goray soon founded the Farmworker Children's Council with a mission to provide free educational, social, recreational and cultural services for children of laborers in the agricultural, nursery and equestrian fields of Palm Beach County. The organization has since grown to offer homework assistance during the school year and enriching educational programming in the summer to nearly 200 children and teens annually.
"I am humbled to be selected for this most prestigious award," said Goray, founder and CEO of Farmworker Children's Council, Inc. "The generous donation given in Jim Moran's memory will long benefit our children, our staff, and our dedicated volunteers who truly deserve this recognition."
Jim Moran established this annual award in 2003 to acknowledge those who have a history of giving back to their community through active service and personal commitment. The individual must exemplify the characteristics of the mission of The Foundation, reflect proven accomplishments that address real community needs and/or concerns, and inspire others to embrace civic and charitable responsibility in meeting the needs of their community.
