Acting Executive Director, Editor, Writer
Mackenzie Garcia’s life is proof that you don’t have to look far for inspirational role models. Today, this mother of three is the acting executive director for a non-profit in the up and coming small town of Cibolo, Texas.
Mackenzie’s young adult life didn’t go according to her plan. Back-to-back fractured hips forced her to abandon her dream of joining the United States Marine Corps. Her recruiting officer said it was clear she had the heart of a Marine, but not the body. Ever the optimist, and knowing that God’s plan is greater than her own, she continued her civil career which includes working in the restaurant, retail, manufacturing, media, and event planning businesses. Over time, she rediscovered her love for writing while her new role as a mom provided ample material for the articles she penned for national parenting publications.
Mackenzie credits her mother, Tori, as a profound influence in her life. A successful businesswoman in a third-generation family business, some of her customers and employees consider her to be the soul of her family’s business. “She never ceases to amaze me,” Mac said. She also received inspiration and encouragement from her high school English and literature teacher, Sharon Arata, who saw in her young student the makings of a talented writer.
At Neighborly Town, Mac puts her writing and business experience to work for the benefit of communities nationwide. The organization aims to help improve neighborhoods around the country.
No matter how hectic life is for Mac and her husband, Joe, they are raising their young family to value and use their God-given talents to give back. In addition to being the founding executive director for Neighborly Town, Mac volunteers with Joe at local events and supports other good causes. Recent examples include helping to care for a herd of rescued horses and raising funds for a fellow parent stricken with cancer.
Mac is also quick to point out that, as a mother of young children, her “secret” to success is “the grace of God and good strong coffee.” Regarding her faith, she says her “daily focus is to order my life according to God’s plan and schedule so as to testify to His greatness and love.”