Supporter Spotlight: Kris Amato-Aliani

The Child Center of NY is fortunate to have supporters who feel a special connection to The Child Center based on a variety of factors, from their own life experiences to their confidence in our results-based approach — and, always, their belief in our guiding principle: that every family and community deserves access to the skills, opportunities, and emotional support they need to build healthy, successful futures. In this Q&A, long-time board member Kris Amato-Aliani tells us why she has become one of The Child Center’s most dedicated supporters.

How did you first get involved with The Child Center, and what connected you to our mission? 

I joined the board ten years ago, and at that time, I was personally struggling to have children of my own. What I found here was a place to pour my energy into that mattered beyond myself. This organization, its mission, and the people who carry it out helped fill something in me when I really needed it. Then I became a mom to two beautiful babies, and my connection to this work took on a whole new meaning. Now part of why I show up for others is because I want my children to see it. My daughter is six and already a natural-born caregiver. My son has that same warmth and compassion. My job as their mother is to reinforce the sense of kindness and community that they already have. Being around our CEO, Traci Donnelly, and The Child Center team makes that so much easier. I want my kids to catch this feeling early and carry it always.

You've been a board member for many years and have been heavily involved in our annual Golf Event — what has kept you so committed to this work over time? 

Our golf event is held in Long Island, where my network is strongest, and where I happen to love playing. Over the years, I've built close relationships with many of the golf committee members, and the collaboration has been genuinely rewarding. Most importantly, it gives me the chance to fundraise for an event I'm deeply passionate about, one that we've made a real success together.

What do you hope the organization accomplishes in the years ahead, and why does that future excite you?

I'll admit I'm biased because of my work with Make An Impact, which has given me a front-row seat to what's possible when the right resources meet the right mission. Make An Impact exists to change the world one not-for-profit at a time, and I believe The Child Center is poised to be at the forefront of that progress — a model for what this work can look like when it's done right.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about getting involved or making their first donation? 

What sets The Child Center apart is a leadership team that holds the best of both worlds: an unwavering commitment to our mission and the discipline and accountability of a well-run business, which is a rare combination in the not-for-profit sector. Our dashboards and technology bring that accountability to life, giving donors real visibility into where their money goes and the tangible impact it creates in the community.