Our History
In 2007, after a decade writing, developing core messages, and working to transform words and ideas into policy, programs, and results, Allison Aurand established Castanea Associates to provide focused support to clients in the agricultural and policy sector. Castanea Associates offered consulting services to government agencies, non-profits, individuals, and trade organizations; these services included policy and program development and implementation; planning and execution of public outreach strategies; message development and delivery related to issues and ideas; and issues advocacy.
Since that time, Castanea Associates has expanded its service market, and now offers marketing and communications support to businesses, non-profits, and other organizations. We provide expertise and experience in writing, editing, branding implementation, social media management, and digital and print copy, as well as media and communications strategies.
Our Team
Principal
Allison Aurand
Principal Allison Aurand cut her teeth on public outreach work, advocating for ideas and programs. Her experiences in the public sector, paired with her history in the private sector, give her a unique capacity for developing concepts into messages and then into solid, successful strategies for reaching new and existing audiences. Having grown up working in a successful family retail business, she also gained an instinct for product selection, placement, and marketing, including establishing and maintaining a vibrant brand.
Allison has developed and successfully advocated for the passage of policy and legislation - from the beginning, as the spark of an idea, through the nuts-and-bolts of drafting legislation, to the final vote. Along the way, she has crafted the message, shepherded the piece of policy, and answered the tough questions. With existing programs and organizations, Allison has balanced the “30,000-foot view” against the practicalities of day-to-day realities, and through strategic messaging, branding, and a commitment to service and success, she brings together the full array of stakeholders to cement support and develop a common cause.
Education
SMITH COLLEGE
B.A. 1999
WA AGFORESTRY LEADERSHIP EDUCATION FOUNDATION FELLOW
2010-2012
Representative Roles
• Communications Director: Timber Framers Guild
• Director: Skagit Farmland Legacy Program
• Outreach & Project Specialist: American Farmland Trust
• President of the Board of Directors: League of Women Voters of Bellingham/Whatcom County
associate
Ramona Abbott
Ramona Abbott is a highly skilled facilitator and trainer providing seminars and consultation services to private and public sector clients. Her twenty years of business, engineering, construction, and public sector management background give her a diverse experience guaranteed to impel you and your organization to new heights.
Ramona also provides a wide variety of publicity and marketing services including writing, marketing, publicity, and social media content management. From producing and managing creative content to event management, all aspects of business and organizational communications inspire her creativity and flair.
Education
The Evergreen State College
B.A. 1991
Representative Roles
• Adjunct Professor: Bellingham Technical College
• External Relations Manager: Whatcom Symphony Orchestra