Candace Moppins
Candace S. Moppins, daughter of Sharon Pender-Gidney and Drexel Gidney, and the late Roderick O. Moppins Sr., is a cherished mom, sister, granddaughter, aunt, nurse, and mentor. Her journey began at the Diocesan Educational Campus and continued through her graduation from Villa Maria Academy. In high school, Candace’s passion for nursing ignited, leading her to become a Licensed Practical Nurse and graduate from Trocaire College. Candace’s early career included significant roles at Sheehan Memorial Hospital, Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Episcopal General Homecare, and Erie County Medical Center, as well as private duty nursing. After the birth of her son and the adoption of her three daughters, she sought more flexible employment and found her calling in community-based work.
As the Housing Director at F.L.A.R.E., Candace discovered her true purpose: to assist, support, and mentor families within the community. This mission brought her to the Delavan Grider Community Center, where she now serves as the Executive Director. In her role, Candace has been a steadfast advocate for the community, using her outgoing, supportive, and nurturing nature to foster an inclusive environment. Her primary goal has been to ensure the center functions as a vital asset to the neighborhood. Under her leadership, and with the dedicated efforts of her staff and the Board of Directors, the center has secured numerous programs and funding.
The Delavan Grider Community Center now offers a wide range of services, including yoga, senior programming, summer youth enrichment, and support for parents with children with special needs. The center also hosts Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, STEM Club, Alcoholics Anonymous, health and wellness activities, dance classes, cooking classes, and more. Collaborations with organizations such as Spectrum Cable Services, Key Bank, Buffalo Grow Green, and Every Bottom Covered have been crucial to these efforts. Candace describes her role at the center as “challenging but worthwhile and rewarding,” and she firmly believes that “you must be the start of change you want to see.” Her dedication has earned her several accolades, including the Elizabeth E. Anglim Advocacy Award, the Coalition of Adoption and Foster Family Agencies award, the Unlimited Possibilities Overcoming Poverty Ministry Incorporated award, the Paradigm Service award from The Black Association of Black Social Workers, and the Still I Rise, No More Tears Community Service Award.
A proud member of Tabernacle of Praise, Candace is guided by her faith under Pastor Charles and First Lady Rachel McCarley. She takes immense pride in her children: Keith, a Buffalo Police Officer; LeAnn and Evelyn, who are pursuing their dreams; and Alanna, a freshman at South Carolina State University. Her family and community are equally proud of her remarkable achievements.
