The Ally Way

oh hello

“She attacked everything in life with a mix of extraordinary genius and naive incompetence, and it was often difficult to tell which was which.” – Douglas Adams 

I (Miss Ally) consider myself part of a new generation of Niagara Falls community leaders.  A movement of innovative thinkers who envision a greater future for the region. A vision that includes an emphasis on art, culture, economic growth and an over all greater quality of life.  I believe we can move past the self-serving politics of our predecessors and join together for a brighter future.  At the very least I think we can have smooth roads, a good education system and a safe community to raise our children.

I am the daughter of Karen and Gary Laible of Niagara falls and sister of Dan Laible and wife, Jeannine.  I’m the proud aunt (affectionately known as Titi Al) to their son Dylan who prefers to be called by his professional name “The Green Ninja” and daughter Nina who has yet to declare a preferred name.  I consider myself lucky to be engaged to the love of my life, Eric Kenyon. Together we are the caretakers of three tortoises, one crazy dog and a currently empty fish tank (RIP Eric fish, Alicia fish, Orange Belly, “that other fish” and “the new one”).

I earned my Bachelor’s degree at William Smith College. There I studied Political Science and specialized in International Relations. While at William Smith, I had the opportunity to study urban planning and design in Vietnam.  Following graduation, I traveled to Mexico volunteering my time to teach English to impoverished young adults.  Upon my return, I  spent two years working with individuals victimized by domestic and intimate partner violence through the AmeriCorps VISTA program serving Western New York.  My experiences encouraged me to return to school to earn my Masters degree. Life experience had awakened in me a passion for social justice, advocacy and the desire to help others find their voice.  Guided by these values I completed my Masters of Social work at the University at Buffalo where I was President of The School of Social Work Graduate Student Association and recipient of the Outstanding Student Award.  But I don’t like to brag.

I currently work as the social worker for a multi-disciplinary team, which provides services to older adults in Niagara County. Along with my wonderful team we aim to help these adults maintain their independence, live healthy lives, reduce isolation and encourage a sense of purpose.  I love my job and believe in the old adage that “Age does not diminish the extreme disappointment of having a scoop of ice cream fall from the cone”. – J. Fiebig