On preserving a family business for as long as our services are needed
Question #1: WHO are you?
My name is Allison Strickman. I grew up in Gaithersburg, MD and now live in DC with my fiancé, PJ Harris. I am the soon-to-be daughter and granddaughter in-law of Monica & Arnida Lamont.
Question #2: WHY did you make the leap to join the Lamont Homes team?
Ever since completing grad school I have dedicated my career to working with vulnerable patients in a medical setting. I understand how important it is for our society as a whole to take care of those in need. Lamont Homes is an excellent example of how that can be done effectively in my community. The opportunity to continue helping DMV residents in this way while also working closely with family was a no brainer!
Question #3: WHERE did you work before joining Lamont Homes?
I previously worked full time as a Speech Language Pathologist at a small hospital on Capitol Hill. My job included helping patients with swallowing disorders. I helped patients on the ventilator and with a tracheostomy tubes communicate with a speaking valve. Working directly with patients in the hospital gave me a great deal of experience building empathy with people in need. It also helped me prepare for the realities of working with individuals with disadvantaged health conditions. I intend to apply my experience in the healthcare system to my work in caring for the residents of Lamont Homes.
Question #4: HOW else do you plan to make an impact at Lamont Homes?
I am excited to get to know the staff and clients more closely as I did with my hospital patients. I want them to depend on me to be a friendly and helpful resource in order to continue making a positive impact on their lives. As some of DC’s most vulnerable residents, it is critical to build relationships founded in trust to ensure they are receptive to our efforts to care for them. I am excited to get familiar with all client’s case managers to facilitate continued client growth and well-being in our community. I also look forward to better understanding the role of the staff and management team in making Lamont Homes a successful operation for as long as it has been.
Question #5: WHAT is one thing you would want people to know about our business?
Lamont Homes is a family business whose number one goal is to facilitate growth and independence for as many DC residents with mental and behavioral health needs as possible. We would not be able to do this if we didn’t deeply care about our clients and our DC community as a whole. It is not easy work, but it is absolutely critical if we hope to maintain a functioning and equitable society. I am thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to contribute to and help continue that legacy.
