BOSTON — A North Berkshire woman was among the 130 honored June 23 as a Commonwealth Heroine.

 

Erin Forbush, director of shelter and housing at ServiceNet, was nominated by state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier.

 

Each year, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities. Legislators are encouraged to nominate a woman from their constituency who is making a big difference in the community, to recognize her invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service.

 

"The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don't make the news, but make all the difference in their communities," MCSW Chair Sarah Glenn-Smith said as the commission celebrated its 20th class of Commonwealth Heroines at the 2023 awards ceremony in the State House's Great Hall of Flags.

 

Farley-Bouvier said she nominated Forbush because she sets the example for respecting others, especially the most disabled, disenfranchised members of our community, and that she has a natural ability to connect with and inspire people who are at their lowest point in life.

 

"Recently, she guided our family and individual shelters through the COVID-19 pandemic — engaging in problem-solving and answering the call 24/7 for three years. Her leadership bolstered the staff during these strenuous times, as it does every day," said the Pittsfield lawmaker. "Erin's professionalism, knowledge, humility, and compassion make her an invaluable asset to ServiceNet and to the community."