Celebrating Allison Stockel: A Force for Good

In recognition of her many years of service to the Town of Ridgefield, hundreds of community members including First Selectman Rudy Marconi and State Representative John Frey, gathered at Silver Spring Country Club to celebrate Allison Stockel - named Citizen of the Year by the Ridgefield Rotary Club.

On a picture-perfect evening, guests enjoyed cocktails on the veranda before heading inside where a delicious surf & turf meal was served.

But the night was not about the food, the wine, or elegant setting. It was about a person - Allison Stockel.

As the night unfolded, friends, coworkers, and family members spoke about a person who strives to make the world better - every minute of every day.

Allison lives the Rotary motto: Service Above Self.

Feeding the hungry.

Giving to the poor.

Taking care of the sick.

“Allison thrives on making a difference - any way she can, said Allison’s longtime friend, Suzie Scanlon. She went on to say that it’s what Allison does when no one is watching that is most admirable.

From inviting those in need to take shelter in her home, to delivering meals to the hungry, and visiting the lonely members of our community, Allison lives a selfless life of service.

Her husband Jon recalled one of their first dates when he asked Allison to accompany him to dinner and a NY Knicks game. “We went to Carmine’s in the city.” Jon explained that after seeing the amazing spread of family-style dishes, Allison asked the waiter to pack up her food to go. “I took the shopping bag and as we turned to walk down Broadway, she grabbed the bag and gave it to a homeless person. For the next twenty years - every day- she never ceases to amaze me.”

Ziggy, Allison’s first ABC (A Better Chance) host daughter said, “She [Allison] been a wonderful mother to me - even though I’m not her child.” Ziggy had tears in her eyes as she shared memories of living in Ridgefield. “Allison went on field trips with me. She bought me my first winter coat. She bought me sneakers when I wanted to run track. She believes in me.”

Her friend Sarah Bouissou recalled athletic challenges with Allison including bike rides, and races. “She has strength and determination...Ridgefield wouldn’t be the same without you, Allison.”

Comedian Christine O’Leary had all in attendance laughing through tears as she roasted her friend in true-O’Leary style while sporting Allison fave big black boots.

After the stories had been told, it was time for Allison to take the mic. And, she did so with deep gratitude. “It takes a village,” said Allison as she asked her Playhouse staff to stand for recognition. She thanked her family, all of whom were in attendance, even her elderly father.

“When you give, you feel good,” she said.  “Follow your dreams, find your passions, live your life loudly, and follow your heart. “ she added.

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Ridgefield for recognizing Allison and to Rotary member and event chair, Theresa Santoro for all of your hard work. It was a beautiful night honoring a beautiful person.


Here are just some of Allison’s philanthropic passions and endeavors

Allison is the Executive Director for the Playhouse. She also serves on the Advisory Board of the Danbury Women’s Center. She is an incorporator of the Lounsbury House. Allison has been involved with A Better Chance as a host parent and board member for the past 6 years.  She delivers food for Hillside Food Outreach. In addition, Allison supports many other non-profits including Ability Beyond, Sphere, The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, the Ridgefield Chorale, RVNA, and more.


To learn more Ridgefield Rotary, its mission, its people and upcoming events visit them online at www.ridgefieldrotary.org.

 

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Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

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