As a child, Candice Silvas probably never expected to be Michigan City’s City Council Representative of the 2nd Ward. It is that same humble beginning that gives her the insight and kind heart necessary to be a great leader.
“Statistically, I should not be where I am in life,” she said. “The reason I am where I am is because of the positive role models I had in life. They pushed me to not settle. They didn’t even realize the influence they had on me, and if I could do that for just one child.”
Candice had her first child when she was sixteen years old. She was able to continue her schooling at Michigan City alternative school. Her passion for “helping children overcome obstacles” led her to a degree in elementary education through Ivy Tech Community College. From there Candice went on to obtain a Bachelor’s in liberal studies, then to pursue her MBA at Indiana Wesleyan University.
Her first career was as a stay at home mom to her four children. That gave her the opportunity to volunteer at the Knapp elementary school. Candice’s responsibilities at the school included recruiting more volunteers to supplement the lunchroom and library budget cuts, campaigning for the school referendum in 2013, fundraising and handling the social media and public relations for the school's parent group.
Michigan City has been her home Candice’s entire life. Her education and passion for helping people allow her to make it an even better place to live.
“It’s a close-knit community but it is large enough that it offers a lot of entertainment. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family... We have so many memories here.”
Candice has been involved in many projects throughout the city. She is the social media coordinator and serves on the executive boards for the League of Women’s Voters of La Porte County and the Michigan City Rotary Club, with the League of Women Voters being a group that encourages people to register to vote. She also co-funded and helps maintains the facebook page for the ABC Anti-Bullying Coalition as well as the Friends of Michigan City Area Schools Page.
“The way society is, we are fast moving. We want our information now. Social media gives everyone a voice.”
Candice’s activity in the community attracted the attention of the Salvation Army. She accepted the position of Community Resource Director so she could reach even more of Michigan City’s population. The Salvation Army is not just a social service. They are eager to jump in wherever they are needed.
For instance, they adopted the Knapp and Marsh Elementary schools when funding for the sports programs was cut. Now the children have soccer, basketball, music lessons, and summer camp available to them.
“When you are in elementary aged, it’s hard to realize that there is the world outside where they live. They think the life they are living is all that there is. We are trying to break that generational poverty cycle.”
They also raise funds for a free summer camp located in Grand Rapids, the Weekend Backpack Project, and a local food pantry and diaper bank program.
“I’ve gotten my hands into everything in Michigan City,” explained Candice. “I have grassroots here and was already doing things a city councilor does. So I decided to take it up a notch.”
She ran for city council and won, now her social media expertise and passion for her home will impact the city’s rebranding efforts. “Create. Play. Repeat.” is intended to revamp the community and give it a better reputation. Volunteer numbers are up. The Midtown Project is underway to revitalize the midtown. Michigan City is on the rise and it is thanks to people like Councilor Candice Silvas.
Her message to the citizens is a call to action.
“All of our non-for-profits are looking for help. For example Junior Achievement is an hour and a half a week, and it can change a child’s life.”