By: Maria Williams
Michella Filipowitz’s life has been a series of transformative moments, leading her from the catwalks of Paris to the role of advocate and philanthropist. As a model, businesswoman, and co-founder of the DR Family Foundation, her mission has shifted from personal success to creating opportunities for children with disabilities. Michella’s story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for those who need it most.
Her journey began at just 15, when she left her family behind and moved to Paris in pursuit of a modeling career. It was a brave leap into the unknown, and while the world of fashion brought her many opportunities, it also taught her about the importance of inner strength. “It was an incredible experience,” she recalls. “But it also made me realize how essential support systems are, both personally and professionally.”
Years later, at 23, Michella’s life took a new turn when she became a single mother to her son, Benjamin. It wasn’t long after that Benjamin was diagnosed with autism, a moment that changed everything. “At first, it was hard to accept,” she admits. “But I knew I had to be strong for him. His diagnosis became the reason I started looking for ways to help other families like ours.”
This profound shift in her priorities led Michella to co-found the DR Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting children with special needs. Her vision was clear: to break down the barriers that children with disabilities often face and provide them with the resources to thrive in society. “These children deserve every opportunity to succeed,” she says. “They just need the right tools and the right environment.”
One of the DR Family Foundation’s core missions is to offer financial assistance to families struggling to cover the cost of specialized education for their children. For many families, finding a school that accommodates children with disabilities can be both challenging and expensive. “I experienced it firsthand,” Michella shares. “Finding a school that would accept Benjamin was a battle, but I refused to let that stop us. I want to ensure other families don’t have to face the same struggles.”
But the foundation’s work goes far beyond education. Michella and her team are currently working on the creation of a shelter for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. “This isn’t just about giving kids a place to sleep,” she explains. “It’s about creating a supportive community where they feel safe and empowered to grow.”
The shelter, set to open next year, will be a sanctuary for children who have faced hardship in their home lives, offering them not just physical shelter but emotional support through counseling and mentorship. “We want to give these kids the sense of belonging they’ve been missing,” Michella emphasizes. “It’s about giving them hope and showing them that they have a future.”
Michella’s passion for inclusion and empowerment stems directly from her experiences with Benjamin. “He’s taught me so much,” she says. “He’s shown me that what makes us different is what makes us strong.” This lesson is at the heart of everything the DR Family Foundation does. Whether it’s providing educational opportunities or creating inclusive environments, Michella’s goal is to ensure that children with disabilities are given the same opportunities as everyone else.
An important part of this mission involves changing societal perceptions of disability. Michella believes that the way schools handle children with special needs must change. Too often, she argues, children with autism or other disabilities are placed in separate schools, isolating them from their peers. “Segregating these kids isn’t the answer,” she says. “We need to integrate them into mainstream classrooms, where they can learn alongside other children.”
Michella envisions a world where schools are inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and teach children to respect each other’s differences. “Children need to understand from an early age that everyone is different, and that’s a good thing,” she explains. “Diversity makes us stronger, and it’s something to be embraced.”
As part of her efforts to create inclusive spaces, Michella is also developing a soccer program for children with disabilities. “Sports are a powerful way to build confidence and create connections,” she says. “This soccer team will give children the chance to participate, form friendships, and feel like they’re part of something bigger.”
Michella’s work has had a profound impact, not only on the lives of the children her foundation supports but on her own life as well. “Benjamin has been my greatest teacher,” she reflects. “He’s taught me the value of patience, empathy, and perseverance. Everything I do, I do for him and for children like him.”
Looking ahead, Michella is determined to expand the reach of the DR Family Foundation and continue advocating for children with disabilities. Her dream is to create a world where every child, regardless of their abilities, is given the chance to succeed. “I know we have a long way to go, but I’m committed to this mission,” she says. “I want to create a world where children with disabilities are not just included but celebrated.”
Through her tireless work with the DR Family Foundation, Michella Filipowitz is changing the narrative for children with special needs. Her efforts are a reminder that with the right support, every child can overcome challenges and reach their full potential. “These kids are incredible,” she concludes. “They just need someone to believe in them.”
To follow Michella’s journey and learn more about the DR Family Foundation’s initiatives, check out her Instagram @princessmichella.
Published by: Khy Talara
