Allison Houtz Experiential Education Program Coordinator Bio: Allison is a passionate, lifelong advocate for young children, families, and early educators. She’s worked in early education at large for the past 17 years, through teaching, directing, child advocacy, parent training, coaching, and higher education leadership. Allison currently serves students, faculty, and community members as the Experiential Education Program Coordinator within the Education Department at Prescott College. One of her many hats is leading the Center for Nature & Place through community building and professional development. She’s dedicated to bridging the gap between early education and much needed family resources in rural communities like Yavapai county. Allison believes wholeheartedly that we have a moral obligation to not only support children, but we owe it to our community and future together. One of the most profoundly true quotes I have found elevates the life work I hold so dear, as consultant, trainer, and advocate for children and families: “What we do early in life lays the foundation for all the rest. Early preventive intervention can be exceptionally valuable” (Shonkoff, & Meisels, 1990). This is my philosophy on early childhood education: I believe that early experiences are pivotal to human development, and as such, should be a focal point in our society when it comes to funding and resources for the public. Early Childhood Education runs in my blood – I do what I do because of the foundation my mom laid as an early education leader and advocate for community access to quality care. She’s a mover and shaker and I’ve found myself following in her footsteps and digging my heels in the field we both care deeply about. Below is the content requested for our upcoming DRW Interview: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NPECEcenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecenterfornatureandplace/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thePCCenter4Nat Website: https://www.centerfornatureandplace.org/ Summer Institute dates: June 4-6, 2021 Online Modules coming early 2021 Ask us to host a workshop for your team! Email @npece@prescott.edu Diona Reese Williams Edited Production: Angel Productions  DRW Guest: Allison Houtz  Facebook Page: @dionareesewilliams Instagram  DRW Personal Brand: @drw_dionareesewilliams  Instagram Out Back Learning LLC: @outbacklearning2019  Facebook Page: @outbacklearning2019 Podcast: https://anchor.fm/diona-williams --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/diona-williams/support