President Obama often refers to Michelle as his “rock,” but her duties as first lady extend beyond supporting her husband and two daughters.
In addition to her savvy style, which she says encourages women to be economically conscious shoppers, she tackles national issues such as childhood obesity, voluntary service, community activism, and support for military service members and their families.
Her community outreach began within weeks of moving into the White House, as she met with the city’s mayor and took her first of many visits to local schools, the Department of Education, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Mrs. Obama’s "Let’s Move" campaign is tackling childhood obesity, with the goal of eliminating it within a generation. Her efforts focus on serving healthier food in schools, providing parents with helpful information, and encouraging physical fitness, all with a goal of improving children's quality of life.
Working with Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, Obama launched the "Joining Forces" campaign earlier this year, to support military families.
She recently returned from a visit to South Africa, during which she focused on encouraging and inspiring youth. She spoke to a group of young African female leaders and read to children in impoverished neighborhoods, with her daughters.
