Allison

Allison- also nicknamed “Alli-Cat” as a youngster, and then "Gator" in college, is now simply known as Mrs., Ms. Allison, Allison, and Mommy. She is a dedicated wife and a loving mother to two beautifully crazy energetic, hilarious boys and to three rescued fur babies. Allison grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and was raised by two music teacher parents and her "Greek mom,”- a neighbor whom she met at the age of 6 when she was bitten by her dog while walking in the neighborhood. All three of these adults were monumental in her upbringing and continue to be today. Allison is also a twin. Knowing from a pretty early age that she wanted to be in social work, she obtained a Bachelor of Social Work and soon went on to work with children in the foster care system. After obtaining her MA in Mental Health Counseling, Allison continued her journey, working in agencies that fulfilled her passion for helping others. During that time, she also learned ballroom dance, taught Zumba in local gyms, got married, had her children, and met tons of wonderful colleagues and friends along the way. Through these friends, she found her current work at a local high school where she works through a contracted agency as a Student Assistant Program Specialist. This is basically her dream job because she gets to help teens in need, whatever that looks like to them, every damn day!!! Although, please note here that she does not curse at school…she swears! Her work at the high school has also brought other opportunities that she couldn't pass up. In addition, she is the PBIS Coach (Positive Behavior in Schools) and the sponsor for the school’s GSA Club (Gender & Sexualities Alliance) and Coexistence Club through, “Embracing Our Differences.” Allison is an honest human, and although some don’t like it, she feels this is one of her most awesome qualities. She is extremely passionate about working on her marriage and strengthening the partnership with her husband. She is also extremely passionate about providing opportunities for her children. She has given up comforts and indulgences to give them the opportunities they ask for. Drama classes, sports, museum visits, and musical theater tickets always outweigh any wish on her list while she is raising these humans. She loves to see her children learn and will do anything to provide the pallet that inspires them. This is true in her work as well. Her office is adorned with moon sand, a dammit doll, art supplies, essential oils, and classical or relaxing music so that her students have the opportunity to find their peace using the tools within reach. Allison is a genuine person and does the kind thing even when no one is watching. She keeps herself in check and tries really hard NOT to make assumptions…. and when she does, she communicates openly about what story she is telling herself in her headspace. Her friends and colleagues agree, she is a healer Goddess in all aspects of her life. With her open heart, friendliness, talents and abilities, Allison is a wonderful asset in any situation. Allison also spends 10 weekends a year working for a non-profit called Deliver the Dream. Deliver the Dream offers retreats weekends, free of charge, to families in need that identify with one of the 10 retreats DTD provides. It's a weekend of connection, fun, play and restoration. Check out: www.deliverthedream.org, embracingourdifferences.org, and www.mysuncoast.com.