NICKIE ALSTON
Executive Director
Born in Harrisburg, PA, she received a dual degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. As a strong activist for children and families within her community, her mission within the Miss American and Miss USA Organization was to help “prevent the violence against children, to instill hope, and to provide resources and support to many who otherwise would not be afforded with the opportunity to succeed.”
In 2005, Nickie founded ASun Star, which strives relentlessly to ensure that all children are given the opportunity to be exposed to opportunities outside of their community, while given the tools to build on their potentials and strengths. ASun Star provides facility, in-home, and community based services throughout the state of New Jersey. Some of these services include: Counseling, Mentorship, Behavioral Supports, Afterschool and Summer Programs. ASun Star aims to create a brighter future for all individuals ultimately “Molding Leaders for Tomorrow.” Currently, the organization assists over 1,000 youth and families yearly. In addition, the organization participates in community initiatives that provides families with holiday baskets and toys, resources and positive family experiences. In addition, ASun Star offers special programming for at-risk youth as well as youth and adults that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Throughout the years, Nickie has become a “Serial Entrepreneur.” Currently, she runs eight companies, which includes two non-profits, and a digital community company. Stiletto District, a digital destination, “for women by women” is filled with “all of the things we love:” style, fitness, culinary, and relationships. This company was inspired after Chef Nickie graduated from the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE). She loves to entertain and believes that “Food is an Adventure!” She specializes in adding the fun into food with exotic bold flavors that are packed into traditional dishes. This has allowed her to implement culinary into many of the company’s programming. ASun Star teaches cooking classes and has begun to teach families how to “cook and enjoy tasteful foods on a budget.”
When she is not working, she enjoys working out, traveling and watching a good movie on Netflix. Because lets be honest, who pays for cable anymore! LOL ☺
