OCALA, FL (352today.com) – In Ocala, leadership and service go hand in hand, and few embody this spirit more than Mayor Ben Marciano and his wife, Danielle.
Their journey together began in May 2005 when Danielle, preparing for the Miss Florida competition, joined The Lord’s Gym. Ben, a trainer at the time, offered her a free personal training session if she signed up that day. She accepted, and the rest, as they say, is history. Danielle says that after their first meeting, Ben immediately called his father and said, “I just met the woman I’m going to marry.” True to his word, they were engaged nine months later and married a year after that.
Their partnership is one of balance, complementing each other’s strengths and filling in where the other leaves off. Faith, love for others, and a commitment to service are the values that drive their mission of giving back to the Ocala community. Ben, having grown up with challenges, finds his passion in ensuring others do not have to experience the same hardships, while Danielle feels a divine calling to serve.
Both were inspired by family and mentors to get involved in community service, and their impact has grown exponentially over the years. “One initiative closest to their hearts is Better Together, where they serve as a host family to help keep children out of the foster care system. This initiative has not only strengthened their family bond but also allowed them to make a tangible difference in young lives.
“I think the area we are most proud of as a family as our involvement with Better Together,” Danielle says “We serve as a host family to keep children out of the foster care system. This provides our entire family the opportunity to serve, and we all grow as a result of our involvement. It really is outstanding the role each individual in a family plays, so no one is left out.”
Balancing professional responsibilities with community service can be challenging, especially when their perspectives differ—Ben focusing on large-scale change while Danielle prefers hands-on, detail-oriented work. Yet, they find unity in their shared mission.
As Ocala continues to evolve, they envision a more giving-oriented community, as reflected in initiatives like Give 4 Marion. They believe that leading by example in service will inspire others to take action as well.
Their biggest lesson? Everyone, including children, can make a difference. “You don’t have to start your own nonprofit to contribute,” they say. “Whatever you do, big or small, do it with great love.”
To those considering community service, their advice is simple: start where your values align and explore different ways to help. “Every little bit really does count.”
As for what’s next, the Marcianos remain open to where their faith and passion lead them. One thing is certain—they will continue to serve, uplift, and inspire the Ocala community for years to come.
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