What type of seeds are you planting? Through intentional conversation, the words we speak, the stories we share, and the support we give one another plant seeds of growth, healing, and possibility in our lives.
Erin Patrice is a Midland resident who has spent her adult life advocating for children, adults,
and families through community work, speaking engagements, and deeply rooted personal connections. She serves on the Midland County Housing Commission, is a member of the Midland Area Cultural Awareness Coalition, and sits on several boards that allow her to advocate for seniors, underserved populations, and children. Erin has worked as a life coach within an alternative education school and a juvenile detention center and is a trained behavioral specialist. She is a keynote speaker, professional development educator, and facilitator who partners with schools and organizations to lead conversations and workshops centered on leadership, empathy, and community well-being.
A community leader who leads with intention rather than visibility, Erin’s many contributions are often known only through the people and spaces she has impacted. One of her deepest passions is helping people feel seen and heard—work that led her to found The Breaking Bread Village, a nonprofit rooted in the belief that “it takes a village.” The organization was intentionally created as a safe, judgment-free space where people can gather, share perspectives, and trust that their voices matter. Erin is committed to listening first, approaching every space with empathy, love, and care. She believes that hope and that intentional love- creativity, and hope can give way to indifference and harm. And that intentional connection can interrupt that cycle.
What began as small, local conversations has grown into a regional movement. Through The Breaking Bread Village and her speaking work, Erin’s reach now extends across the Great Lakes Bay Region and beyond, engaging schools, nonprofits, faith communities, public institutions, and community organizations. She has facilitated conversations and programming focused on education, mental health, justice, identity, youth development, and heart-centered leadership- often bringing together people who may never otherwise share space. Her work has touched hundreds of students, educators, families, and community members through live community experiences, professional development, and youth-focused initiatives- all grounded in curiosity, compassion, and meaningful dialogue.
While her roots remain firmly planted in Midland, the impact of Erin’s work continues to expand- serving as seeds of understanding, connection, and peace wherever she is invited to serve. Her leadership and commitment to community have been recognized through the 2022 MLK Drum Major Award, the 2023 Midland Daily News Citizen of the Year, and the 2025 Mrdhia International Institute of Peace and Happiness – Community Peace Award.
To learn more about Erin, her work, and community impact, visit tbbv.org.
