In a world where compassion can be the greatest gift, Audrey Hoener is making a quiet but powerful impact—one family, one grant, one heartfelt connection at a time.

Audrey is a Hidden Lake neighbor who lends her heart and hands to Angels of Hope, a Michigan nonprofit with a mission as pure as its name: to provide critical financial support to families directly impacted by cancer. Entirely volunteer-run—without a single employee or even a building—Angels of Hope ensures that every dollar raised goes straight into the hands of those who need it most.

“I was blown away that it’s 100% volunteer-based,” Audrey shared. “The people behind this organization are so passionate, they give their time freely—and they’re a lot of fun to work with, too!”

Audrey’s involvement began in November 2024 when she joined the Angels of Hope grant committee. Through her role as an ambassador for Discount Tire’s philanthropic initiative Driven to Care, she helps allocate funding to nonprofits across the Great Lakes region. After losing a team member to throat cancer, her team was inspired to support an organization that helps families endure the heartbreak of cancer. Angels of Hope stood out.

“I review applications from patients currently in treatment and submit their requests to the board,” Audrey explained. “Once approved, I get to be the one to call and tell the families how we’re going to help them. That moment—it’s everything.”

One moment that stands out above the rest? “The relief in families’ voices when they learn that they can be by their child’s bedside and their bills will be paid for the next month. It’s humbling, emotional, and unforgettable.”

In addition to her work on the grant committee, Audrey volunteers at Angels of Hope’s two signature fundraisers—Golf of Hope and Night of Hope. These events raise crucial funds for everything from utility bills to mortgage payments, helping families stay afloat during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Yet with rising costs and increased demand, Audrey acknowledges the challenge of keeping up. “Fundraising is always tough, but it’s even harder now. More families are reaching out for help—and we want to be able to say yes every time.”

That’s where the community comes in. Audrey encourages others to get involved in ways big or small, such as hosting a fundraiser, donating raffle items, volunteering at events, or making a direct donation. “Every effort counts. You don’t have to give a lot of time or money to make a real difference.”

Her husband, Trey, is also part of the mission—“He’s indirectly a volunteer,” Audrey smiled, acknowledging the behind-the-scenes support that makes her giving possible.

In Hidden Lake, we often say that neighbors become friends and friends become family. Audrey Hoener embodies that spirit fully, using her energy, empathy, and expertise to bring hope to Michigan families in crisis.

To learn more about Angels of Hope or find ways to help, visit www.angelsofhope.org.