State Rep. Ann Bollin encouraged women to step forward, serve their communities, and lead with purpose as she keynoted Livingston County Habitat for Humanity’s Arise and Shine women’s empowerment event on May 1.
Founded in 2018 by the late Beverly VandenBerg, Arise and Shine is an annual event that celebrates the power women have to create change, uplift one another, and lead with compassion. This year’s event also featured the presentation of the Beverly VandenBerg Women’s Empowerment Award to Erika McNamara.
During her keynote address, Bollin reflected on her personal journey, sharing stories about her family, career path, and unexpected road to public service. She spoke about overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and the importance of saying “yes” to serving others and making a difference.
“Every movement that ever changed a community began with women who refused to wait for permission,” Bollin said during her speech. “Women who saw a need. Women who understood that leadership isn’t a title; it’s a decision.”
Bollin also spoke about the influence of her parents, including her father’s recovery journey after suffering a debilitating stroke at age 26, and how those experiences inspired her career in recreation therapy and later public service.
“When you volunteer, you create ripples that reach farther than you’ll ever see,” Bollin said. “When you lead, you give others permission to lead too.”
Bollin said she was honored to take part in an event dedicated to empowering women and strengthening the community.
“It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by so many women who are committed to serving others, uplifting our community, and making a positive impact,” Bollin said. “Events like Arise and Shine remind us how powerful it can be when women come together to encourage one another, lead with compassion, and step forward to make a difference.”
