Alison Starling has been co-anchor of Good Morning Washington and ABC7 News at Noon since January, 2004. During her time at ABC 7 News, Alison has covered major local and national news stories including Hurricane Isabel in 2003, the Virginia Tech shootings in 2007 and the Papal Mass in Washington live from the Nationals Ballpark in April 2008.

Alison first became a Big Sister when she moved to Tennessee for her first job and wanted a way to feel part of her new community. She is also an only child, and looked forward to the idea of having a little sister to share fun memories with!

Almost as soon as Alison moved to Washington, DC, she was matched with Awilda. Awilda was just 9 years-old at the time, has two sisters, and lived with her single mother, Carmen, in Ft. Washington, MD.  Their family is from the Dominican Republic and they have a large network of aunts, uncles and cousins who are very close. Awilda, also new to the city at the time, went through some struggles when she moved to a new school in Washington, DC.

Alison and Awilda became very close and both receive a lot from being a match. They talk about everything. “She is always sweet and fun, and we talk about everything. Sometimes I think I ask her too many questions, partly because it’s my nature as a reporter, and partly because I’m so interested in her life and how she’s doing.” Alison says that when she becomes too focused on work or small problems, Awilda will do or say something that brings it all back to what’s important.

On the other side, Awilda is extremely shy in groups or in front of adults she’s never met. Though, as soon as she’s with Alison, she starts chatting away and singing to music on the radio.  They are both working together to get her more comfortable and confident on her path towards her dream of becoming a lawyer.

Their relationship is steady, comfortable and strong and Awilda has grown up through typical teenage struggles into a strong, confident, young woman. Their favorite activities include going out to eat, going to plays, the circus, or hanging out at Alison’s house.

Awilda’s mother, Carmen, is so proud that Alison is Awilda’s big sister and knows that she is always looking after her daughter. Alison used to bring her to school, to the library, helped her with her homework, outside of their favorite activities.

“The impact of the relationship is affecting my child in a very positive way. Alison is a sweet, caring and lovely young lady who is making a big difference in my child’s life. Thanks to BBBSNCA my child have a great person in her life who inspires her to move forward to a better future.” Said Carmen.