A Journey of Purpose and Pride

With the support of her family, The Kennedy Collective, and an inclusive employer, Alison Smith has built a life filled with joy, independence, and meaningful work.

A Joyful Spirit

Alison Smith, a beloved member of The Kennedy Collective family, radiates positivity in everything she does. Described by her parents, Steve and Bonnie Smith, as “the happiest person we’ve ever known,” Alison finds joy in art, music, travel, and even video games. Most importantly, she finds joy in people.

“Alison does not have a mean bone in her body,” Bonnie explains. “Everybody she meets, she calls her friend.”

That spirit shines bright in her work at Benchmark Senior Living in Shelton, CT, where she has been a Community Assistant for nearly five years.

Finding Her Place

Alison’s path to Benchmark wasn’t without challenges. She worked for 13 years at Stern Village in Trumbull, cleaning apartments, before a change in supervision made it difficult to stay. With encouragement from a family friend, she applied at Benchmark—and immediately found a community that valued her.

“She loves her job,” says Steve. “She looks forward to going to work every day. If she can’t go in, she is disappointed. That’s how much it means to her.”

At Benchmark, Alison is more than an employee—she’s an associate. She attends staff meetings, completes trainings, and takes on new responsibilities with pride. “They treat her as part of the team,” Bonnie says.

“Having a job means making my goals, learning how to be my best person, and handling things the right way.”

– Alison Smith

Building Independence

Employment has given Alison more than just a paycheck. It has given her independence and responsibility. She now earns her own money, makes her own spending decisions, and even treats her family to meals from time to time.

“Benchmark isn’t just where she works—it’s where her friends are,” Steve reflects. “It gives her purpose.”

Jennifer Konopka, Alison’s TKC Vocational Specialist, adds: “Alison is passionate about giving her best in everything she does. Her goals are simple but powerful: work hard, try her best, and stay happy with her achievements.”

A Life Full of Adventures

Beyond work, Alison lives a life rich with experiences. She loves Disney, drawing, crossword puzzles, and swimming in her backyard pool. She enjoys playing Zelda and Mario on her Nintendo Switch, and she has traveled the world, from Hawaii and Williamsburg to Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Amsterdam, and even a Rhine River cruise.

“I like trying new things, meeting new friends, and exploring the world,” Alison says proudly.

For nearly 30 years, Alison has been involved in Special Olympics as both an athlete and a Global Messenger. Her accomplishments with the Special Olympics are especially meaningful. Alison has won two gold medals in track at the Special Olympics National Games and three bronze medals at the World Games. She has also traveled to Ireland as a Global Messenger for the World Games, where she represented athletes and inspired audiences on an international stage.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn new skills, make friends from all over the world, and just be happy,” she says.

Lessons From Her Journey

Alison’s story is also about advocacy and persistence. Her parents encourage other families to be proactive when supporting loved ones with disabilities.

“You have to network, prepare resumes, gather references, and market their strengths,” Bonnie shares. “And most importantly—you can’t give up.”

That same advice comes straight from Alison herself: “Don’t give up.”

An Inspiration for All

Alison’s journey is proof of the power of inclusive employment. By recognizing her strengths and tailoring responsibilities to her skills, Benchmark created an environment where Alison could thrive.

As Steve puts it: “If she can do it, others can too. Employers just need to look for ways to make it work.”

With her infectious smile, unwavering determination, and boundless positivity, Alison Smith embodies purpose, pride, and possibility—and reminds us what is possible when people are given the chance to shine.