Profile in Philanthropy: Meghan Alles, Accountant
Meet Meghan Alles, WFCO Accountant
Meghan Alles joined The Women’s Foundation of Colorado as an accountant in August. Meghan believes in breaking down the gender-based obstacles that women face, and she is driven to create a more equitable world for her two daughters. Outside of work, Meghan enjoys concerts, festivals, and spending time with friends and family. Read on to learn more about Meghan’s advice to her 15-year-old self, her favorite place in Colorado, and her commitment to making Colorado a place where every woman thrives.
Why is supporting women a top priority for you?
Growing up I was raised by a single mother and her support system was comprised of other single women. I was taught to notice how women were treated differently than men and how to handle those situations. I was told I must accept that I would have to work harder to overcome certain obstacles that only women encounter. Now, I have two daughters and wish to equip them with the knowledge that they may experience prejudice, but they also have the ability and right to thrive in any situation. I do not believe that we must expect obstacles simply due to our gender. Supporting women means working toward destroying those obstacles that only women face so that one day my daughters may not have to have the same experiences as other women.
What other philanthropic passions do you have?
I am passionate about public school policy and activities. Education should be easily accessible to all and enjoyable for students and teachers. As a young person, I went to a private school in Illinois where small class sizes and emotional investment caused students to thrive. I believe this should be the norm in public schools as well. My children attend public school in Colorado and I am involved both at the classroom level and the district level so that I can stay educated on their priorities and also provide support as a parent when needed.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue women and families are facing in Colorado?
Women in the workforce that wish to start a family typically face the issue of choosing expensive childcare or leaving the workforce to stay at home and offset the cost. In some areas of Colorado, there are childcare deserts which cause not only a lack of care but also increase the cost of care that is available. While there are benefits like CCAP and dependent care credits available, this does not solve this issue of high costs due to low supply of quality child care centers before preschool age. If the state could improve access in child care deserts, and increase competition in the industry overall, the prices would come down and ease the financial burden on growing families. Colorado’s 2022 Universal Preschool Program was a big win in this space! Now, we need better access to high quality child care between the ages of 0-4.
If you had to teach a class, what would it be?
Personal finance because I believe that our education system does not currently require students to practice real world financial skills such as budgeting a paycheck, taking on loans, managing a credit score, and saving for unexpected expenses. Managing one’s finances has historically been a skill to learn at home, but like sexual education, I believe we should not accept that “at home training” is the standard.
Where do you find the most joy in your life?
I really enjoy going to concerts and festivals with friends and family. The most recent festival I attended was with my husband in Copper Mountain. I was lucky enough to win VIP experience tickets for the weekend! Otherwise, I enjoy local shows whenever time allows.
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
Your life is not what happens in the future, but the choices you make now and every day. Focus on what you need and want right now rather than focusing on what you might want as an adult. And invest in your friendships because some will last a lifetime.
What is your favorite place or activity to do in Colorado?
The hot springs in Glenwood Springs. My husband and I try to make an annual trip around Valentine’s Day. The town has some amazing food and views!
Should pineapple exist on pizza? What is your favorite pizza topping?
I do not eat pineapple on my pizza, but I accept that they both coexist in this universe. Tomatoes are the only fruit that belongs on pizza in my opinion. My favorite pizza topping is mushrooms!
What is the most binge-worthy show? No judgement.
Hell’s Kitchen – I can watch Gordon Ramsay make food and yell all day long.
