In partnership with AdventHealth for Women, we’re recognizing some of the women in our community who are selflessly giving to others while raising families, supporting their loved ones and building their careers. Whether they know it or not, their stories inspire other women in their shoes.
As the community relations officer for Seminole County, Ashley Moore is responsible for public information dissemination and the management of public education campaigns. As she balances work with parenting two young daughters, she is also an active member of the Venue on Lake Lily event committee, a founding board member for Apopka Community Trust and a volunteer mentor for Embrace Families.
What is your WHY?
I carry life lessons from my parents, who taught me to do as much as I can for as long as I can, because one day, I won’t have the same abilities and energy to accomplish as much. To me, that translates across all facets of life- at home, at work, and in service to others. Carrying on these principles is part of my purpose.
On your toughest of days, what motivates you to put one foot in front of the other?
On tough days, I humble myself and remember there are always folks who have faced far greater obstacles and managed to succeed. Setting an example of grace under fire for my girls mimics what my mother has shown and continues to show me.
Have you drawn inspiration from other women? Tell us about someone who has inspired you.
I put my mom on a pedestal. She’s my constant, giving me unconditional love when I didn’t deserve it, showing me how to have a career with not only a paycheck, but also purpose, and how to steadily balance life in light of adversity. Most importantly, she’s shown me the best example of how to be a mother. If I’m half the mom she has been, I’ll consider myself a success.
What is the one word that perfectly explains who you are?
A challenger – in positive terms of not accepting the norm, thriving in competition and always testing my own limits.
Would you change anything about how you have handled challenges or successes thus far in your life?
Every success also offers lessons. There’s always an after-action checklist that runs through my head after completing a task or executing a plan. Complacency settles in when you’re not willing to make your next endeavor bigger and better.
What are you most proud of?
Hands down, my family is my greatest accomplishment. I’ve picked the perfect partner in life; my husband, Mike, balances my shortcomings and continually supports my ideas. Together, we have been blessed with two precious daughters. Maddie (six years) and McKenzie (three months).
What is the biggest challenge you have faced and what did you learn from it?
I lost my dad three years ago to Leukemia. I’m continuing to learn so much about grief and its complexity with each day that passes; particularly, that grief doesn’t go away. Rather, I’ve found that life begins again and grows around the grief, making it seem less overwhelming. I’m also learning how to honor my dad and his legacy – mostly by making, not finding, time to give my talents to those who deserve them.