Meet Your Neighbor: Alena Klee

"The running joke in the Connecticut town where I grew up was that there were more cows than people. There were only about 1200 people in the entire town, and I had to drive 20 minutes to the nearest grocery store. I grew up on a dairy farm, so we spent our time outside running around without our shoes, chasing cows and drinking from the garden hose. Everything was so outdoors-based, which was so fun. New York is much more fast paced though, and there’s a lot more to do. They’re basically polar opposites. 

I wish I could tell 13-year-old me that we are going to have such a beautiful, full life. I was so lonely as a teenager and thought it was always going to be that way. I think 13-year-old me would be so proud to see that we are living in New York City surrounded by so many people who make us feel loved and wanted.  

My advice to others is don’t be afraid to go for what you want, even if it seems terrifying. Moving to New York was so scary, but I’m so glad I did. The worst that will happen is maybe you’ll decide you don’t like it."

- Alena Klee, QCH Program Coordinator of Access for Young Women

Is there a QCH community member (program participant, staff, program leader, volunteer, etc.) you'd like featured in the Meet Your Neighbor series? Let me know (tcruz@qchnyc.org)! Welcoming both written and video formats!