Meet Michelle
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Michelle Linn Picchioni is a philanthropist, entrepreneur and business manager for a prominent real estate developer in New York City. She participated in last year’s Dream Extreme and her generosity and support helped raise more than $100,000 for Victims of Domestic Violence.

Michelle’s philanthropy has always been centered around helping children. She has been a member of the UNICEF Next Generation, a dedicated group of young professionals that have raised more than 2.5 million dollars over the past four years. Michelle has served on countless committees including The Haiti Relief Fund, The Emergency Relief Fund in the Horn of Africa, Child Protection Services in Vietnam, and presently supporting Colombia’s indigenous children. At this time Michelle is also involved with local charities including Edwin Gould Services for Children and Families, STEPS to End Family Violence and Southampton Youth Services.

Michelle was abandoned by her father at birth and endured a difficult childhood. She was raised by her grandparents and mother alongside her older brother in Portland, Oregon. They grew up in a neighborhood rife with teenage pregnancy, drugs, and criminal behavior. "I had to grow up quickly and relied on myself to make smart decisions that would dictate the path I would take in life." Michelle used sports as a way to overcome these challenges. "When I was a young girl, I started playing softball, basketball and volleyball to help me get through hard times. Playing sports became part of my life. I participated on elite club teams that gave me the opportunity to travel. I saw sports as a tool for guidance and structure in my life". By excelling in sports and devoting herself to community involvement, Michelle received a scholarship and attended the University of Oregon.

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Soon after college, Michelle moved to New York City. "Moving to New York City was a huge risk. I was leaving my comfort zone in Portland, but I also knew there was more for me. New York City rekindled my entrepreneurial spirit and it gave me hope for my future. This was the single best decision I have ever made!"

Michelle has a loving husband, Matthew, and two beautiful daughters Anneliese and Cienna. Her children have inspired her to create the children’s book series My Glamorous Friends; Everyone can be glamorous. With imagination and self confidence, you can go anywhere and do anything. "I feel like society has become even more difficult for young girls to feel good about themselves. I hope my books can help boost self confidence by offering positive role models and open one’s imagination. This is my new passion -- helping to make life a little easier for children."