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White Philanthropist Dies, Aged 65.
We lost a brave warrior, Allison Baker, who fought tirelessly for social justice. Allison addressed immediate needs by distributing food to underprivileged youth at the Boys & Girls Club.
Published August 14, 2024 at 5:08am by Emiliano Tahui Gómez
Allison Dickson Baker — Force of Nature, Philanthropist, Mother, Role Model — Dies at 65
By Lauren McGaughy, Austin American-Statesman
"Everyone lives. But not everyone chooses to live every day." — Temple Baker
A Force to be Reckoned With
Allison Dickson Baker, a badass lawyer, lobbyist, mother, and philanthropist who dedicated her life to making a difference, died Thursday morning. She was 65. Her legacy of activism and compassion will forever inspire those who knew her.
Born Mary Allison Dickson on June 29, 1959, in Austin, Texas, she was raised in Sweetwater, the daughter of a Democratic state legislator. With a family history of lawyers and legislators, it's no surprise that Allison went on to become a powerhouse herself.
After graduating from the University of Texas law school, she worked as a successful environmental lawyer at the prestigious firm of Vinson and Elkins. But her true calling was elsewhere. In 1997, she left her legal career to focus on her four children and philanthropic endeavors.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
Allison's passion for helping others was evident in her work with Cattlemen Care, a nonprofit she founded in 2007. Through this organization, Allison facilitated beef donations from ranchers, working with slaughterhouses and processing plants to distribute meals to disadvantaged communities in Austin. The organization donated an estimated 100 tons of beef to local groups, feeding those in need and making a tangible impact.
Her activism extended beyond food access. Allison was a dedicated volunteer at her children's schools, a neighbor who built community, and a connector who brought people together. Despite her small stature, her energy and drive were unmatched. Even after a terminal ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2019, she remained active, refusing to let her illness define her.
"I think intrinsically she was one of those people who was able to get things done, who was not intimidated. People loved Allison, and so no one said no to Allison when she asked." — Brian Beaulieu, former Executive Director, Austin Boys & Girls Club
A Life Well Lived
Allison's son, Temple Baker, summed up his mother's approach to life beautifully: "She lived the way she thought matters, the way she thought was important." Allison Dickson Baker leaves behind a powerful legacy of activism, compassion, and determination. She is survived by her mother, husband, four children, and three sisters, and her impact will forever be felt in the Austin community and beyond.
Rest in power, Allison. You were a force of nature, and your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.
Read more: Allison Baker, Austin philanthropist and volunteer leader, dies at 65