Employee Spotlight: Allaina Wagner
Meet Allaina Wagner, engagement coordinator on our Events & Volunteer Engagement team. Allaina helps connect donors to our mission through events, volunteer opportunities and programs that amplify our work. Outside the office, you’ll likely find Allaina rock climbing or enjoying a good book.
Get to know Allaina in her full spotlight below.
What’s your role at United Way and what’s your favorite part of the job?
I’m the engagement coordinator on the Events & Volunteer Engagement team. I help deepen donor involvement through volunteer projects, events and programs that highlight the impact of our work. My favorite part of the job is leading simulations like Poverty Spiral, which helps build empathy for those experiencing poverty in our region and offers insight into the tough decisions required to navigate financial instability. Watching participants experience those ‘a-ha’ moments in real time is rewarding. It’s a powerful way to connect people to the challenges our communities face and I love being in that educator role.
What’s a moment or accomplishment you’re most proud of?
I have two! Professionally, I’m proud of the final session of our Connect U program. Seeing how the young professionals were affected, and knowing I played a pivotal role in shaping the experience was meaningful. Personally, completing a sprint triathlon last year was a huge milestone. I never thought I had the ability to do that kind of thing, but I loved every minute of it and can’t wait to do it again!
What’s one thing your coworkers may not know about you?
I’m originally from Georgia. I grew up just outside of Atlanta and spent 13 years there. Growing up in the south really shaped my worldview and feels like my true childhood home.
When you’re not at work, where can we usually find you?
You’ll probably find me at the rock-climbing gym. I go a few times a week. On Sundays, I love heading to a coffee shop to read for a couple hours.
What’s an item you would bring with you to a deserted island?
I’d bring my favorite book, “The Baron in the Trees” by Italo Calvino. It’s layered and imaginative, something I could happily reread for years if I were stranded that long. Plus, it has some surprisingly helpful survival insights, which might come in handy as a useful guide.