Katie Allston, CEO of Marian House, Joins Camp Opportunity Board
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEWednesday, June 14, 2023 Katie Allston, CEO of Marian House, Joins Camp Opportunity Board Glen Arm, Md - Camp Opportunity, Inc., a leading child welfare organization, providing transformative summer camp experiences for children who have been abused and neglected, is delighted to announce the appointment of Katie Allston as its newest board member.
With her extensive background in social work and a passion for outdoor healing experiences, Allston is poised to make a significant impact on the organization’s mission and support its growth. Allston’s journey to social work began early with her involvement in the Girl Scouts as a child. Inspired by her experiences, she went on to become a Girl Scout Troop Leader for seven years, witnessing firsthand the positive effects of outdoor adventures on personal growth and healing for children. As the Executive Director of Marian House, where she leads a team of 35 staff members in delivering housing, programs, and services to women who have experienced trauma, Allston has successfully incorporated camping trips into their programming.
The mission of Camp Opportunity struck a chord with Allston, given her specialization in working with adults who have experienced trauma. She recognizes the importance of providing a nurturing and supportive environment for children who have been abused and neglected and firmly believes in the potential of outdoor camp experiences to facilitate healing and resilience. Inspired by the dedicated and compassionate board members of Camp Opportunity, Katie eagerly joined the organization to lend her expertise and support its continued success.
Allston has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and contributions to the nonprofit sector. Her accolades include the Smart CEO Brava Award in 2012, the CLIA Inspiring Voice, The Daily Record Most Admired CEO in 2016, the Maryland Top 100 Women in 2017 and 2019, and the Influential Marylander in 2020.
“Her dedication to the well-being of vulnerable populations is paramount,” said Board Chair, Missy Teague. “As Camp Opportunity embarks on its mission to provide healing and hope to more children who have endured unimaginable challenges, the addition of Katie to our board will play a pivotal role in supporting our efforts to expand and enhance our organization’s reach.”
Allston’s educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work with a specialization in Substance Abuse from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. She resides in Elkridge, Maryland with her husband Paul, and their two children.
About Camp Opportunity, Inc. Camp Opportunity provides an overnight summer camp experience for children and youth who have been abused and neglected. The one-to-one counselor-to-camper ratio creates a powerful supportive, transformative relationship that lasts long after camp is over. For more information, please visit https://campopportunity.org or follow Camp Opportunity of Maryland on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.