A Visual Invitation Creates Changes
By Tracey Moro / Photography by Anne Nicolazzo
With a passion for photography and a desire to showcase the beauty around us, Anne Nicolazzo’s photos have created visual invitations for many of us for years now. Those invites also played on her heart, creating growth in new missions and commitments she continues to foster.
Nicolazzo rekindled her passion for photography as a Hockey Mom and a Band Mom, capturing moments with her son. Her favorites were the parades with the marching bands. She also loves planning vacations and “staycations” since they encourage people to explore and appreciate what’s right in their own backyard.
“By sharing event photos and hidden gems within the community, it raises awareness about them. While many events rely heavily on outreach, my photography serves as a visual invitation for others to get out and get involved in the community,” said Nicolazzo.
In 2010 Anne discovered Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids after watching America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Detroit. “I thought…I love kids and I love hair,” said Nicolazzo. She did her research and discovered the non profit organization was in St. Clair Shores, so she took a tour. “Their mission touched my heart and I volunteered my photography services. A year later I walked down Woodward Avenue representing Maggie’s Wigs 4
Kids, a dream come true for me as I have always been fascinated by the Parade Company. In 2012, I was asked to serve on Maggie’s Board of Directors and I remain an active board member today.”
Wigs 4 Kids is just one of the many nonprofits she supports. “I am regularly involved with Carehouse of Macomb, A Beautiful Me, Angie’s Toy Chest, Harrison Township Parade of Lights (raises funds for various charities annually), 80s Party with a Purpose, and All the World’s a Stage, just to name a few. Each of these organizations has its own mission and impact, and hopefully my involvement will make a difference,” added Nicolazzo.
Also in 2012 County Executive Mark Hackel launched the Make Macomb Your Home campaign and it provided a fantastic opportunity for Nicolazzo to further engage her photography with local initiatives.
“Using various social media pages as a platform to showcase my work not only helped document positive changes but also fostered greater community involvement. It has
allowed me to share stories and highlight events that might go unnoticed, hopefully encouraging more residents to participate and connect with their community,” said Nicolazzo.
But still photography also brings its own benefits to the one behind the camera. “It’s amazing how capturing moments can shift our perspective and help us appreciate the beauty in everyday life. The calmness it brings amidst a hectic work week is a significant benefit, providing a creative outlet that balances out daily stresses,” added Nicolazzo.
She has also gained valuable experiences and skills, enhancing her both personally and professionally. “It’s inspiring to be part of something bigger and to see the positive impact we can create together,” she added. “Meeting incredible people and forming lifelong friendships through my photography has been such a rewarding experience. I highly recommend getting involved in your community. It opens doors to new relationships and experiences, fosters a sense of belonging, and can lead to meaningful change and growth.”
In 2018 Nicolazzo transitioned from Accounting/Office Manager to Vice President of Human Resources and Community Outreach at Lanzen Inc. in Romeo. “This was truly a significant shift, and being active in charities enhanced my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of community outreach, both of which are essential in my current role,” said Nicolazzo. “Through my work at Lanzen Inc. and our partnership with the Academies of Romeo, my commitment and dedication to education is to help empower the next generation. By providing hands- on experiences and career exploration opportunities, I hope to make a significant impact on students’ futures and help them understand the importance of skilled trades in today’s economy.”
Giving one’s time and talents is valuable and needed. Just like a financial donation. Her sharing of photography is a meaningful way to give back. She agrees. “Whether through photography, the charities I support, or my role at Lanzen Inc., my dedication to empowering others and fostering connections is truly my passion. Making a difference often starts with small, intentional actions that ripple out to create larger changes and I truly hope that I have made a difference.”
