Ashley Faulcon’s journey to becoming a program coordinator for East Brunswick, N.J.’s, recreation and parks department wasn’t a straight shot. However, her passion for volunteerism and working with youth has led to a fulfilling career and the opportunity to make a difference every day.

Faulcon, age 28, had considered pursuing special education after volunteering with the East Brunswick Youth Council in high school. A program of the department, the Youth Council serves to foster communication, education and information with respect to youth and youth-related issues. The Youth Council provides students in grades nine to 12 with social activities in a safe and positive environment, while promoting individual self-esteem and leadership through participation in meetings, events and community service projects.

Faulcon is in her element when it comes to setting Youth Council students up for success. She has secured more than $120,000 in grant funding for the Youth Council. She finds great fulfillment in translating the program’s goals into action.

In retrospect, she said her education and prior experience have prepared her for the demands of the job. Her time in college at Rutgers University steered her toward communications. However, a brief stint in the private sector solidified her desire for public service. Returning to the recreation department, she found her calling as a program coordinator.

“When I graduated (with my undergraduate degree), I ended up finding and completing a master’s in public administration,” she said. “By that point, I was able to move up within the recreation department. So, I went from secretary to rec assistant to eventually down the road to where I am now as a program coordinator. It’s been a great journey.”

Quick to give due credit, Faulcon said her colleagues inspire her to greatness. The same goes for witnessing the transformation of shy teenagers into confident leaders. She values their resilience, energy and individuality. She also sees herself in them at times.

“I get to help them find their path like I found my path (with) Youth Council in a way that lets them be a kid but also lets them challenge and explore their leadership abilities,” she said. “Honestly, doing teen Mental Health First Aid with them, as well, has been probably the cornerstone of the youth work. It’s probably the most meaningful work that I’ve done.”

While just one facet of the role, Teen Mental Health First Aid equips teens with the tools needed to support their peers facing mental health and substance use challenges. Still, there’s no such thing as a typical day for Faulcon. Her duties involve checking emails, planning events, overseeing the youth center and collaborating with colleagues. She said her days often start early and stretch beyond traditional work hours, especially for larger events.

A high-energy person, two moments on the job stand out for Faulcon so far. The first is witnessing the successful execution of a day of service entirely planned and run by the Youth Council. The second is the department’s collaborative effort on East Brunswick Day, a significant town-wide event.

“I work best in a collaborative setting,” she said. “(There may be hierarchy), but we’re all here trying to accomplish the same goal. So, when we actually get to work together and not just (focus on) our individual tasks, it’s really awesome.”

Speaking of contributions, Faulcon said her department facilitates year-round food drives and annual school supply drives. Both serve as outlets for Youth Council teens to step up and help their community members.

Faulcon certainly leads by example and her work has prompted leaders to take notice. Earlier this year, Faulcon was informed she was nominated by her manager and selected for the “30 Under 30 Park Professionals” award. A joint effort by the National Recreation and Park Association Young Professional Network and Parks & Recreation magazine, this award is a testament to her dedication to community service and youth development. Faulcon said this publicity has been gratifying and has borne fruit.

“The NRPA award has opened up a lot of doors,” Faulcon said. “(For example), I have the opportunity to be on a podcast now and do interviews. I’m going to be speaking at a conference in North Carolina (in September 2024). I hope to keep bringing change and keep helping youth.”

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