buzz-worthy miami mom: arlene peterson

May is all about celebrating the incredible moms in the 305 who make life a little sweeter. Join us as we honor “Buzz-Worthy Local Moms” all month long — each week, we’ll spotlight a Miami mom who has us absolutely buzzing! We are proud to shine the spotlight on Arlene Peterson a local mom of six who is doing great things at home and in the community.

Arlene Peterson is a proud mom of six amazing children and has been married to her husband, Kendall, for over 20 years. Together, they’ve built a life rooted in faith, love, and perseverance. They’ve raised our family between Connecticut and Miami. Arlene currently serves as the Executive Director of The WOW Center, a nonprofit supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Balancing work and family has been a journey of love, learning, and endless gratitude.

What do you love about being a mom in Miami?

After raising my family both in Connecticut and Miami, I can truly say that Miami offers an incredible array of resources for families — from healthcare to education, family support, and employment opportunities. While the fast pace and “big city” influences of Miami can be challenging, I’m so grateful for the access and opportunities that have helped us meet the needs of our large family. There’s a vibrant energy here that, when navigated with intention, can be a real blessing.

What’s a piece of advice or a mantra that keeps you going on tough days?

When I face situations that feel impossible, I lean into my faith. I remind myself: my children are God’s children first. It’s not all on my shoulders. I won’t be measured by the outcome, but by how much I loved along the way. That keeps me steady through even the hardest days.

What’s one thing about motherhood that surprised you the most?

What surprised me most was how much I could endure. No matter how much I planned, prepared, or managed every detail, life still had its own course. And that’s okay — because it was never about controlling the outcome. It’s about loving them through it all and playing the long game, not the short one.

Anything else you’d like to add?

My greatest joy is seeing my children thrive — not necessarily by being financially successful, but by being good people who serve and lift up others. I teach them to always have each other’s backs, just as my mother taught my sisters and me. I couldn’t have been the mother I am without my faith, and without my incredible husband, Kendall, who has been my rock for the past 20 years. He’s always ready to carry the extra load, ensuring that we strengthen our marriage and ourselves, so we can be what our children need us to be. I am continually amazed by our children — they are intelligent, witty, beautiful, and resilient. I don’t take credit for who they are; I simply try to reflect back to them the great people they are meant to be.