Photography by Vanessa Rogers
Stylist: Michaela Vattimo
Allison Durian was born and raised in Naples, where her family has lived for more than 40 years. The 32-year-old returned to her hometown after college and has been active in the community ever since. When not working at her job in exhibitions and inventory control for Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Durian devotes her time to a number of local programs.
“Philanthropy for me has always been something I just do; it is a part of who I am,” she says.
Earliest philanthropic effort:
I recognized a need at my high school for a program that encouraged philanthropy and volunteering within our community. I started a Philanthropy Club to get other students involved in various projects around town, starting with Habitat for Humanity and St. Matthew’s House.
Memorable moments:
Learning how many people are benefiting from our David Lawrence Center group’s efforts, meeting grateful scholarship recipients, and high-fiving my Girls on the Run running buddy after a great practice are all great rewards for the time and energy spent.
Wisdom to share with young people:
Think outside of yourself. Sometimes helping others only takes a minute, but you leave a lasting impression on them by the kindness that you have shown.
Words to live by:
“Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly.”
Latest initiatives:
- The David Lawrence Center Young Executives, a group whose primary goal is to help with the ongoing improvements for the Center’s Immokalee campus, as well as create a fund that can provide financial assistance for those who are unable to pay for the services.
- The Naples Junior Woman’s Club and its scholarship committee.
- Girls on the Run, an emerging program here in Naples that teaches young women the importance of positive thinking and staying active.
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