The Barbara Stone Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on supporting and creating visionary and creative programs and initiatives for individuals with disabilities, presented Allison Fleahman with the 2026 Barbara Stone Community Leadership Award on March 7th at the annual Barbara’s Birthday Bash fundraiser. For two decades, Fleahman has worked to ensure that young adults with disabilities in the Upstate have successful pathways to employment, independence, and opportunity.
As the Workforce Coordinator for Project SEARCH at Bon Secours St. Francis, Fleahman leads a program that prepares young adults with disabilities to enter the workforce and build meaningful careers. She recently helped launch “BeReady,” a new employment support program that continues expanding those opportunities in our community. In recognition of her far-reaching impact, she was also honored in 2024 with one of Bon Secours St. Francis’s Leadership Awards.
“Allison’s leadership is felt throughout the Upstate,” said Lara Ceisel, executive director of the Barbara Stone Foundation. “She is a fierce advocate, a thoughtful collaborator, and someone who works every day to make sure no one in our community falls through the cracks.”
Fleahman serves as a board member for Bridged, Inc and the Down Syndrome Association of the Upstate. For the past four years, she has volunteered in a variety of roles for CAN Talks, a special event hosted by the Barbara Stone Foundation, where individuals with disabilities find their voices and share their stories.
As a recipient of the 2026 Barbara Stone Community Leadership Award, Fleahman received a $500 donation from the Barbara Stone Foundation for Bon Secours Foundation for BeReady/Project SEARCH programs.
To nominate an impactful leader for the 2027 Barbara Stone Community Leadership Award, visit the Barbara Stone Foundation’s website at www.barbarastonefoundation.org. For questions, contact Executive Director Lara Ceisel at lara@barbarastonefoundation.org.
Pictured Left to Right: Amy Verrilli, Mathew Fleahman and Allison Fleahman