Krystal Odell

In 1999, Krystal Odell approached Elise Gambino with her idea to start a not-for-profit dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities reach their full potential. Together they launched Allies, Inc. working as two volunteers out of a small basement office. In just 10 years under Krystal’s leadership, Allies has grown into a vibrant statewide organization that assists over 1,500 individuals with special needs. Krystal now serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Allies, leading over 750 employees committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities.

Krystal’s dedication to empowering people with disabilities began at home as a little girl. Growing up in the 1950’s, Krystal’s sister was sent to a boarding school because that was the only education option for children like her with Down syndrome. Krystal was deeply affected by her sister’s lack of options and control of her life. This influence fueled her life’s passion to provide the very best choices for individuals’ with special needs.

Before founding Allies, Krystal worked in all levels of the field serving the developmentally disabled. She began as Case Manager for the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) eventually becoming Statewide Director of the organization. Prior to that, Krystal served as Training Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of a major non-profit.