Leadership Collier Foundation Impact Stories: Michelle Borders (LC '14, ALC '12)
1. How did your Leadership Collier experience influence your involvement in the community or your professional life?
Attending ALC in 2012 opened my eyes to the incredible volunteer work being done by members. At the end of the program, I was invited to mentor for Champions for Learning, which later led to mentoring at Grace Place. Before that, I had no idea how much help was needed in our community. In 2014, when a classmate moved away, I stepped in to facilitate the YLC application process—a role I’ve continued ever since because it aligns perfectly with my passion for mentoring. Over time, my life circumstances changed, and after receiving training, I now lead a family support group twice a month for NAMI, serving parents of adult children with mental health challenges. It’s one of the most demanding yet rewarding roles I’ve ever taken on.
2. Can you share an example of a project, initiative, or leadership role you’ve taken on in Collier County since completing the program?
In 2021, through Clusterbusters.org I had the privilege of launching the first-ever global Zoom support group for caregivers of individuals with cluster headaches. I continue to facilitate this monthly group and have connected with people from all over the world. Additionally, I serve as an administrator for their private Facebook support page, where I post regularly to provide resources and encouragement.
3. What advice or insight would you share with current or future participants about making a lasting impact through Leadership Collier?
Focus on areas that resonate deeply with you—often those connected to your own life experiences or challenges. When your work aligns with your personal passions, your impact will be both meaningful and lasting.
4. What was the most memorable moment or key takeaway from your program experience?
One of the most unexpected and treasured outcomes was forming a lifelong friendship with a classmate years after the program ended. The connections you make through Leadership Collier truly are invaluable.
5. How has being part of the Leadership Collier network supported your goals or collaborations in the community?
By staying engaged and attending events, you build connections with people you might never have met otherwise. Leadership Collier continually expands your circle in ways that open doors and create opportunities you couldn’t have imagined.