Alison Schreiner
Hear Me Roar
December 2024 Issue
Photography (top) by Maggie Washo
Hometown: I’ve moved all over the country my entire life
Current Town: Hilton Head
Years in the Lowcountry: 22 years
Career: Prior to having children: Medical Device Sales; Homeschool Mom;
Currently: PR/Event Manager at The Children’s Center and Realtor®, Coast brokered by eXp Realty
Family: Husband: Paul, Sales Leader at UCB Pharmaceuticals; Son: Matthew, first year law school at Georgetown; Son: Jack, graduating from Union University this month!
Life has a way of guiding people toward their calling. What do you feel you have been called to do?
I firmly believe our purpose is to serve one another. My greatest desire is for the Lord’s light to shine through my life, guiding others toward Him. I aim to inspire not with my words, but through my actions. Like everyone, I am human and make mistakes daily, sometimes even before I get out of bed. Still, I am dedicated to helping each person I encounter in any way I can.
You have a heart to serve others. Did this come naturally or did someone or something inspire you to get involved and make a difference?
Throughout my life, I developed a deep love and appreciation of people. Inspired by my mom, who cares for everyone, I learned the importance of genuine connections. In both business and personal relationships, she prioritized people above all else. (Her best connection ever was setting me up with Paul on a blind date—talk about mutually beneficial!
Your volunteer work is felt by so many. What are your favorite causes?
I work at The Children’s Center, which is a cause very precious to me. I’m also involved with the David Carmines Foundation, where we plan and organize the annual Seafood Festival every February. It’s a fantastic event, and I love that so many organizations in Hilton Head and Bluffton benefit from its success!
Each month, I help pack bags for Backpack Buddies at Hilton Head Island Community Church. It’s rewarding to ensure students in need receive snacks and food for the weekend. Additionally, I serve on the advisory board for the Island Rec Center, which is committed to enhancing our community through wellness programs for all ages. They also host some of the best events in the area, such as Oyster Fest, Wing Fest, and various family-friendly functions at Shelter Cove Park, like the Pumpkin Patch and Snow Day.
I volunteer at the annual Hudson’s Thanksgiving Dinner, which is a wonderful way to spend the day. We serve a traditional dinner to more than 1,500 people, and it’s heartwarming to see everyone enjoying themselves, making new friends, and eating delicious food.
Lastly, I help with the annual Bluffton Tunnel to Towers Run. Since 9/11, we’ve been supporting America’s heroes by providing mortgage-free homes for families of fallen first responders. It’s incredibly moving to see first responders in full gear running this race, reminding us of the events that took place on 9/11.
What is one of the most memorable moments you’ve experienced through volunteering?
I love this question! Throughout my volunteering journey, I’ve had many unforgettable moments, but one experience truly stands out. Last year, our Bible Study group decided to adopt a family for Christmas through Hopeful Horizons. We received a heartfelt list of everyday essentials with goal was to fill every item on the list. One important request was a mattress for the mother. I reached out to No Bull Mattress on Main Street asking for a discount. To my amazement, not only did they donate the mattress, but they also provided a bed frame, pillows, and two sets of sheets. The kindness and generosity of people in our community inspires me.
Gives us one sentence to convince others to get involved and make a difference.
Just do it! I’ve heard it said that Hilton Head has the highest number of non-profits per capita. I don’t know if that’s true, but I know it feels true. Our community is filled with organizations that serve children, elderly, individuals with special needs, pets, military veterans, libraries, hospitals, healthcare, the hungry, the homeless, victims of domestic violence, those seeking legal support, those affected by dementia, environmental concerns—there is an abundance of worthy causes! If you can’t find a meaningful way to contribute your time, talents, or resources in the Lowcountry, you ain’t looking hard enough!
Who is your biggest cheerleader and supporter?
It’s a tie! My husband, Paul, is amazing. He enthusiastically supports me in nearly every project I take on. He never grumbles when our weekends are filled working festivals or events, even when it means missing out on his beloved Wisconsin Badgers football games. I am so grateful for his unwavering support. Equally, my mom, Cathy Havens, deserves recognition as my greatest cheerleader. She is, without question, the most wonderful human being I know—full of life and energy, even as she ages, always eager to lend a helping hand. She never misses an opportunity to express her pride in my accomplishments.
Some claim the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more. Do you find this to be true? How has being involved in the community benefited your life.
Absolutely! We are incredibly fortunate to live in such a vibrant community, full of activities, festivals, concerts and enjoyable events. Being part of it all fills me with complete joy. How can you not be delighted watching children play in “snow” during Snow Day at Shelter Cove, or welcoming guests as they arrive at a festival, excited to devour delicious food, listen to incredible music, and connect with friends?
Yes, after working a festival or event, I am exhausted—sometimes it takes me days to bounce back—but every moment spent is worth it. Paul and I thoroughly enjoy what we do, and we feel a deep appreciation for our community. We love where we live, and we want to be a part of it all!
Do you have any hidden talents or specialties?
I asked Paul this question because it’s not in my wheelhouse to talk about myself. He said he is amazed by how effortlessly I build rapport with strangers. He jokes that my stories make it seem like I’ve known someone forever, even if we just met at Starbucks. This skill isn’t just about conversation; it’s about valuing personal connections. Is this a talent? I’m not sure, but I want to make sure that everyone I meet feels seen and heard.
Do you have any special holiday traditions unique to your family?
I’m absolutely thrilled my boys will be home for a few weeks over Christmas! This is our chance to reconnect and enjoy being together, watching movies, playing cards and board games, and heading to their favorite restaurants. One of our cherished traditions is the annual “Walgreens Run.” On Christmas Eve, we kick off the festivities with lunch, and then each family member gets $20 to race through Walgreens and find a gift for everyone else (there are six of us, including my parents). It’s always a riot, and the presents are the best part of the fun! Well, that and trying to avoid one another in the aisles. One year, I ended up with five packages of Red Twizzlers and a gigantic can of beer! You just can’t beat the laughter and fun of this tradition!
What are you currently “roaring” about?
I am thrilled to be working on two impactful events that will make a real difference. The first is a benefit concert for The Children’s Center at Poseidon Rooftop, featuring the talented John Cranford and friends on December 3rd. This event not only promises an amazing evening, but also aims to engage a broader audience and raise awareness about the organization’s mission.
The second event is Seafood Fest in February, a vibrant week-long celebration of community and seafood. This festival benefits the David Carmines Foundation, which supports numerous non-profits in the Lowcountry. I am actively seeking silent auction items for this event, as we hope to offer a fantastic lineup of unique items and experiences that will help us raise essential funds for this incredible foundation.