2020 40 Under 40: Allison Robertson, 38

As program director at Empower: abilities, Allison Robertson helps to develop, implement and oversee educational, social, support and advocacy programs for people with disabilities.

Currently, she is spearheading the program Restaurant Access Points with the the goal of making Springfield restaurants accessible for all. She has secured $1,000 for the program between grants and donations, which will help pay for decals to display in windows to inform people with disabilities of the restaurant’s accommodations.

She believes education is a big part of helping the community to understand the needs of people with disabilities. Robertson has been saving a part of her paycheck each week in addition to looking for outside resources to help fund Empower: School, which works to stop bullying of disabled students.

Outside of the office, Robertson serves as president-elect of The Junior League of Springfield Inc.

What was your professional aha moment? Being in the right work environment allows a person to grow and thrive.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Get back out there and give it your best – especially when it gets tough. That’s when you’re going to soar.

Have you ever met a celebrity? Randy Bacon with 7 Billion Ones. His work is beautiful and inspirational and teaches us about the uniqueness of every single person.