Ashley and Kate

“We met in 2009. It really was love at first sight, and we were married shortly thereafter in 2012. We have created a beautiful life together, and are the parents of three furry children. Our home is one filled with love, warmth, silliness and unconditional acceptance. There is only one thing that was missing from our home and that was the laughter of our children. Since we were both little, we knew that we were meant to be parents. In fact, we have both devoted our professional lives to pursuing careers that allow us to care for others.”

Kate is a professional counselor and expressive arts therapist who works with youth struggling with a myriad of mental health issues. Ashley is a veterinary technician who specializes in critical care.

“We find tremendous meaning and fulfillment in our work; however, our career choices come with economic trade-offs. Because we are a same sex couple, we have always known that in order to become parents we would need to turn to medical professionals to assist us in pursuing our goal."

They were thrilled to have been chosen for a Coalition Grant and used the money to pursue intrauterine insemination. In 2017, Emerson was born and “is the love of our lives.”

Ashley and Kate are recipients of a Family Building Financial Grant.