A Son's Tribute: The Ripple Effect of Supporting Widow Moms

A Feel Good Holiday Family Story

Basil, a bright and compassionate junior at a Christian high school, recently reminded us of the far-reaching impact of Modern Widows Club® | The Movement for Widow Care (MWC) on families, especially children, when widow moms are supported well.

His story is a testament to the strength, resilience, and purpose that emerge when widows find a supportive community and resources. .

As part of his personal finance class project, Basil was tasked with presenting about a charity that had touched his life. Without hesitation, he chose Modern Widows Club®. Basil shared his personal journey, having lost his father at a young age, and spoke from the heart about how MWC has supported his family over the past 12 years.

He detailed how MWC empowered his mom, Tara Gidus Collingwood (long time wister® supporter and educational speaker at our Widow Empowerment Events) enabling her to heal, grow, and even give back by helping other widows and launching the MWC Virtual Health and Wellness Support Club within MWC. Basil explained how this ripple effect has not only strengthened their family but also inspired others.

Given that he attends a Christian school, Basil wove in a powerful faith-based perspective. He shared the verse Isaiah 1:17:

"Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.”

He demonstrated how MWC lives out this biblical call by providing a compassionate community and practical resources for widows and their children.

Basil also presented the financial transparency of MWC through Charity Navigator, fulfilling a project requirement and underscoring the credibility of the nonprofit organization.

Out of 20 students, Basil was selected as one of five finalists. He presented again, this time to a broader audience that included his classmates, teacher, and the head of school. His heartfelt connection to MWC and his articulate presentation moved the class, who voted him the winner of the $200 prize. The funds were donated to Modern Widows Club® in honor of Basil’s incredible effort.

This feel-good holiday story is more than just a proud moment for Basil (and us at MWC); it’s a shining example of how supporting widows creates a legacy of hope, resilience, and impact that touches entire families and communities. Basil’s win is a celebration of how MWC’s mission continues to inspire and transform lives, one family at a time.