Next in our Meet the Team series is Ali Vernasco!

Ali is a clinical social worker and has been working in the field since 2011 after completing her MSW at Loyola University Chicago. Since completing her MSW, Ali has worked in various settings and finds meaning in supporting others through life’s challenges. Ali is currently completing her certification in Somatic Experience and is learning how to work with the body to heal from trauma.

When not at Gilda’s Club, Ali enjoys her weekly tap classes, a hard workout, and learning harp. Ali is active in the local music scene as a singer and enjoys regular weekend gigs as a cantor across the Chicago-land area. Ali lives in the Ravenswood neighborhood and loves caring for her senior dog Haddie and her adolescent cat Ruth Bader Ginspurr, a.k.a Rutabaga.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?
I love seeing how a small action can make a big impact when members or patients at the hospital are having a difficult day.

What’s your go-to coffee order (or favorite drink to start the day)?
Black Coffee

What’s a TV show, movie, or book you could rewatch or reread over and over?
Schitt’s Creek. Eww, David!

Do you have pets? What are their names/ages?
Haddie (Dog) and Ruth Bader Ginspurr (cat)

What’s the best concert or live event you’ve ever attended?
Any performance of Chicago Tap Theater

What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood or burb?
Andersonville