☀️ This area is for special announcements…

DONATE NOW

STAFF

KATHERINE FOSTER

Hi, I am Katie Foster. I have over 10 years of experience working with direct care, to managing day programs and group homes. I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree at Southern Connecticut State University in 2017 and my Master’s degree in Social Work from New York University in 2018. I am a single mom to my son Logan who helps inspire me every day. I coach youth soccer in the spring and fall. It has always been my dream to run a day program that includes art, music, education, dance, exercise, and most importantly, an accepting and loving environment for all.

SHANE CECCHETTI

Shane Cecchetti is a dedicated and compassionate caregiver devoted to providing exceptional care and support to individuals in need. With extensive experience across multiple areas of caregiving with diverse populations, Shane has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), in rehabilitation programs, and in home health care. Known for his empathetic nature, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication, Shane continues to bring care and dignity to those he serves, ensuring that each person he works with receives personalized, respectful, and high-quality support.

YEIMI DIAZ

Hi, I am Yeimi Diaz. I first joined the team as an intern, and that experience confirmed my passion for this field. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow and gain valuable hands on experience supporting individuals with diverse needs.

I’m a naturally positive person who approaches life and work with creativity and a unique perspective. What I love most about being a DSP is getting to know each individual I work with and learning their personal way of communicating and connecting with the world.

My goal has always been to make a meaningful, lasting impact in someone’s life, and I feel grateful every day to be in a role where that’s possible.

DENAJHA BROCK

Hi, I’m Denajha Brock, I’m a Direct Support Professional at Allie’s Dream with over 10 years of experience as a caregiver. My passion for this work began in childhood. I’ve always been driven to help those in need and to care for individuals who require support and are unable to care for themselves. Since joining Allie’s Dream, I’ve made a commitment to providing compassionate, respectful, and reliable care while supporting individuals in living meaningful and fulfilling lives. I will continue to explore the needs of others until their goals met at Allie’s Dream.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LILI VASILEFF

Lili is the proud single Mother of two extraordinary adult children, Nathaniel and Alexandra, both of whom have inspired her to make the change in the world she passionately believes is possible for individuals with special needs. Championing sibling and special needs causes her entire life, she served many years on the Board of Directors of Friends of Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital; Yale Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs; and as founding parent of CT Parent Advocacy Center.

She received the prestigious Dr. Barbar Award from Friends of Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital for leadership, service and advocacy in the community for creating the “Siblings Program” a contribution to the lives of families with special needs children.

Allie’s Dream is her vision for ensuring full immersion in the arts with learning-based themes that inspire creativity, joy and expression. Never one to give up, Lili pushed the mountain with her nose to make it happen finally!

KYLE BRANDAY

Kyle Branday, MPT, C-PS, CDN, is a dedicated Physical Therapist and a staunch advocate for those in need. He is a graduate of Quinnipiac University and prides himself in setting the high standards for patient care. Kyle’s passion to better the lives of people in his community continues to be a driving force in his life.

Kyle has been a member of the Board of Directors for Allie’s Dream since 2013 and has been honored to be appointed as the Vice President of the Board. It is his hope to help grow Allie’s Dream to benefit our community and proliferate the goals and vision of this tremendous organization.

BONNIE BOTWICK

I am a retired certified k- 12 reading and writing teacher. I worked with both students and teachers in my field. Educationally, I have a Masters and a post graduate degree.

I know Lili and Allie both personally and professionally. Having had a child with special needs, I felt an immediate kinship and was awed by Lili’s intelligence and positive attitude. It was also wonderful to interact with Allie and get to know this delightful young lady. I immediately wanted to be affiliated with Allie’s Dream.

KIM PETRILLO

I am a seasoned nurse with over 30 years of experience in clinical care, as well as, with special needs individuals and the elderly. I have had the pleasure of caring for Allie from the time she was in public elementary school and for the last decade in her home care setting. I am honored to be on the Board for Allie’s Dream 💗.

ROBERT "WOODY" WILKINS

Executive Director and founder of Dances With Wood. DWW is a program that heals and restores the spirits of hospitalized children with cancer and other serious illnesses.

I am pleased to serve on the board of Allies Dream because the program represents an exciting new approach to providing educational and empowering programs to an important group of young adults with special needs.

LYNN MCCRYSTAL

Having spent multiple decades in the not-for-profit world, Lynn brings a commitment for passionate leadership and value-based inclusive choices for persons with abilities and disabilities.

Originally educated and registered as an Art Therapist, Lynn has shown the ability to cultivate unique partnerships and develop innovative programs, while remaining steadfast in her commitment to the arts.

Her expertise includes the development of social enterprises, day support programs, autism-specific services, grant writing and staff development.

Lynn believes strongly in the vision of Allie’s Dream and is pleased to offer her voice and support.