At the heart of our organization are two dedicated professionals who combine their unique experiences and expertise to make a profound impact

Meet the Founders

A Powerful Partnership

Laurie and Kait’s relationship began in 2017, marking the start of Kait’s journey toward safety, freedom, and healing. This pivotal meeting has since evolved into a dynamic partnership that drives our organization’s mission.

Together, Kait and Laurie bring a comprehensive approach to addressing complex trauma and advocating for survivors. Their combined expertise spans personal lived experience, clinical practice, public health, and social work, allowing them to address issues from multiple perspectives.

Through their podcast, creation and leadership at Mezzo Allies, Inc., and their individual areas of expertise, Kait and Laurie continue to be voices for the voiceless and beacons of hope for survivors. Their collaboration is a testament to the power of resilience, professional support, and the impact dedicated individuals can have in creating meaningful change.

  • Survivor, Advocate, and Leader

    Kait Gannon is a remarkable individual who has transformed her personal experiences into a powerful force for change and advocacy. As a survivor of Family Controlled Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children, Kait has dedicated her life to raising awareness and supporting others who have faced similar challenges.

    Professional Background:

    • Executive Director of Mezzo Allies Inc.

    • Co-Host of the podcast The Ugly Truth About The Girl Next Door

    • Experienced social worker

    • Trained in Suicide Prevention

    • Former program director for a public health clinic in Buffalo, NY

    Kait's unique combination of personal experience and professional expertise allows her to approach complex issues with empathy, understanding, and practical knowledge. Her work spans across various crucial areas, including child protection, mental health, and public health.

  • Clinical Expert

    Laurie Krull is a licensed clinical social worker with over 35 years of experience in trauma-informed care and child welfare.

    Professional Background:

    • Over 35 years of clinical experience

    • Clinical Director for Mezzo Allies, Inc.

    • Specializes in complex trauma

    • Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Registered (LCSW-R)

    • Co-Host of the podcast The Ugly Truth About The Girl Next Door

    Laurie's extensive clinical background provides a solid foundation for the therapeutic and supportive aspects of our work.

Meet the Team

  • Christiana Christiano: Board Chair

    Christiana has been a stylist for 11 years and is the proud owner of FBM salon on Main street in Buffalo, NY. She is also a survivor herself and has dedicated her life to walking beside other victims of sexual abuse and family controlled trafficking. She is a passionate advocate for helping others navigate their way to justice and healing, and is always willing to stand with a victim through the mess.

  • Emily Ciraolo

    Emily is a communications manager at Cisco, supporting change and program management initiatives for the customer experience organization. She is an active member of the Western New York community, serving on Leadership Buffalo's and PRSA Buffalo Niagara's board of directors, and St. Bonaventure University's Alumni Council. She is also an active volunteer with SPCA serving Erie County's Paws for Love program alongside her dog Carlo. Emily holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication and a Master of Arts in interrogated marketing communications from St. Bonaventure.

  • Nicholle Overkamp

    Nicholle Overkamp, MBA, ChFC®, CDFA® is a certified Money BitchTM, personal finance expert, and business coach for women. She’s the Founder and CEO of Wilcox Financial Group and PowHERhouse Money Coaching. Nicholle is the co-author of the best-selling book Money Bitch: A no BS guide for smart women to own their financial future. She's also the host of business podcast, Becoming PowHERhouse! Empowering women isn’t only a mission for Nicholle. She lives out her company’s mission personally as well serving on the board for SheCAN! and The Girl Scouts of WNY. She’s a fitness fanatic, lover of the outdoors, caffeine addict and Audible obsessed.

  • Jessica Jaroszewski

    Jessica Jaroszewski is a passionate engineer with experience in the automotive, printing, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors. With a strong background in these industries, she has successfully contributed to the development of innovative solutions and products. Beyond her professional achievements, Jess is also a survivor of domestic violence. This personal experience has shaped her perspective and deepened her empathy towards others facing similar challenges. Jess has dedicated herself to supporting and walking alongside victims on their journey to recovery. Through her personal involvement, she has witnessed the transformative power of compassion and resilience. Combining her technical expertise with her personal commitment to making a difference, Jess strives to create a positive impact both in her professional work and in the lives of those affected by abuse in its many forms. Jess believes that by leveraging her skills and experiences, she can contribute to building a safer and more inclusive society.