Staff writer
As director of Families and Communities Together, Ashlee Gann knows how influential parents can be on their children.
That — or more specifically, her 2- and 5-year-old children at home — is why she’s stepping down from her position.
“We just think it’s better for our family at this time,” she said.
Gann said she is leaving to spend more time with her children, ages 2 and 5, but that’s not all she’ll be doing.
“And we have cattle and a farm, so I’ll be helping with those things,” she said. “I’m sure I’ll be plenty busy.”
Gann said she would re-evaluate when both of her kids were in school.
“I’ll see where I fit in,” she said. “I really like the social work side of things.”
Gann said when she was hired, the position was “more about early-childhood experience” and helping families.
“It’s really turned into more grant management,” she said. “I’d recommend somebody who has experience in grant writing and managing grant programs.”
FACT board member and USD 410 superintendent Steve Noble said Gann has been amenable about her forthcoming departure.
“She’s willing to stay on until we get a replacement for the position,” he said. “She is helping us through this transition to our new director.”
Gann said FACT has had a positive impact on the community.
“We’re really focused on bringing together stronger families and communities,” she said. “I think we’ve had a great impact since the inception.”
FACT is funded by grants, including one from the state focused on early-childhood development and a federal grant focused on underage drinking prevention. FACT also receives funding from Marion County.