Candace Gregory

Born and raised in New Brunswick, Canada, Ms. Gregory is a graduate of Lower Coverdale Christian Academy, Bethany Bible College, New Brunswick Community College, and Grace University with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies. Prior to her entry in the social service and family ministry profession, Candace was a successful businesswoman who launched and managed family owned pizza restaurants in Canada.

Ms. Gregory has more than 20 years of experience in children’s and family ministries. She has become a noted national advocate for homeless families and children, and is sought out for her experience in implementing community prevention programs that can help end the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

In February 2001, the Nebraska Commission on Housing and Homelessness recognized Candace Gregory for her outstanding efforts in the area of Homeless Services and the Continuum of Care for the Non-Profit Sector. She is the recipient of the 2003 Nebraska Center for Faith Based and Community Initiatives “Best Practices” Award for outstanding service and achievement. In 2004, Nebraska Health System awarded her with their Humanitarian Service Award. In the spring of 2004, Clarkson College of Sciences awarded her with an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarian Services. Woodmen of the World's Alpha Lodge honored Candace Gregory with its Honored Citizen Award in the spring of 2005.

Candace is a devoted wife and mother. She resides in Omaha with her husband, Steve, and their four children.

Accomplishments

Candace Gregory has a successful record of designing and implementing programs to empower the homeless and needy with life skills to end their cycle of homelessness and poverty.

At the Open Door Mission in Omaha, Nebraska, Candace

• Created the Individual Programs Plan (IPP) for more effective case management for women and children, and
• Developed long-term family recovery programs for the Mission to better serve families ready to build a New Life

Candace has also initiated several popular and effective outreach programs to serve the impoverished Omaha community, including

• Back to School Bash, a community program to provide new backpacks and school supplies every year to Omaha’s most needy elementary and secondary school students.
• Streets of Omaha, a service that delivers meals to people living on Omaha’s streets.

Ms. Gregory is also a seasoned community relations builder, having acquired partnerships with Omaha businesses and service organizations.