We had the good fortune of connecting with Allison Gross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Allison, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Being surrounded by positivity makes me happy and brings me joy. When you are happy you are able to make others happy and that is what (should) make the world go ’round. Things that make me happy include being outside and enjoying nature and soaking in the natural beauty that God gives us each day. I love to go hunting, fishing, and 4-wheeling with my family. We all enjoy being outdoors together with our dog and spending time together.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
According to gov.texas.gov there are an estimated 3,172,99 people with disabilities in the state of Texas, or 11.4% of the population. 17,968 or 11% of individuals in Johnson County have a disability, and 2,054,475 or 10% of individuals in Tarrant County have a disability. Approximately 1,070,777 people, or 33.8% of the state’s population with disabilities, experience difficulties with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, or moving around inside their homes. Horses are a powerful tool to independence! I am proud to be a part of an organization that provides a place and a space that exhibits and empowers inclusion for all. Wings of Hope: Wings of Hope’s mission is to provide equine assisted services for children and adults with unique physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Since 1996 Wings of Hope has served as a source of hope, healing, and discovery for individuals with disabilities across the DFW Metroplex. We serve as an advocate of inclusion for those who navigate daily life with the challenges and stigma associated with a disability. I began as a volunteer in 2004 when I was 17. I always wanted to be around horses and learn to ride. I grew up in the city and by my teens I realized if I wanted to learn about horses I would have to figure that out on my own as I had given up hope of receiving a pony under the Christmas tree. My mom instilled volunteerism in me at a very young age. My first official volunteer job was at 14 as a candy striper.I wanted to find a way to learn about horses and when I discovered Wings and realized I could learn and give back it was a natural fit and the rest is history. I spent a lot of time learning the ropes of our industry and diving into the many layers of our organization through volunteering and wearing a variety of multiple hats as an employee during my 16 years at Wings of Hope. The journey was not easy but no good journey has a smooth ride. It is important to work hard in life, set goals, and continually reevaluate your successes and learn from your failures in order to move forward. At Wings of Hope both in and out of the saddle it is always about moving forward and trying your hardest, especially when things are not easy.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite spots in the city would be galavanting around Cowtown. There is always something new, fun, and exciting in Fort Worth right along side it’s rich history and timeless adventures. On a nice sunny day a fresh plate of enchiladas or a nice cocktail de camaron on the patio of Southside’s La Playa Maya is in order. A ride on the train in Trinity Park or watching the kids play at the Dream Park and watching the cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts along the Trinity River make for a good pastime. An evening in the Northside to watch a movie at the Coyote drive in, or take a spin on a sawdust floor at Billy Bob’s are a must. Every good tourist has to watch the herd on the daily cattle drive, or countdown 8 seconds while watching the cowboys and cowgirls at the Cowtown Colisuem rodeo each weekend. There is always something to do in funkytown!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wings of Hope Equitherapy

Website: www.wingsofhopehorses.org
Instagram: wings of hope equitherapy
Facebook: wings of hope equitherapy
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV0L7BCf9tpgFo10p02ORUQ

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.