Shaping Futures: Fran Hart’s Impact Across Generations
“I know that what we do will have long-term effects. We may not see it right away, but we give them the tools to use in their future with the hope that they remember what they have learned and use it to be successful once they leave us.” – Fran Hart
For more than thirty years, Fran Hart has been a steady force of kindness and resilience at Alexander Youth Network. Her journey is more than a career. It is a story of heart, purpose, and the belief that every child deserves a chance to grow, heal, and thrive.
Fran’s story began in 1990, just after graduating from UNC Charlotte. She had already been working with children in a group home and as a social worker aide, and when that job ended, she knew exactly where she wanted to go next. “I knew I wanted to continue to work with children, so I began looking for a job that would give me that continued experience,” she said. Alexander quickly became home.
Her early years were filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories of children experiencing new things. Fran recalled taking the kids on their very first trip to the beach. “We went to the beach, to the amusement park, and the waterslide. It was a fun-filled 2–3 days with little to no problems from the children.” Another time, she and her team camped out in Cherokee, learning about Native American history and watching the outdoor drama Unto These Hills. “We pitched tents and slept outside for the night. We were always doing activities that were unique and different. It made working here so much fun.”
As the agency grew, so did Fran’s role and impact. Today, she serves as a Case Coordinator in Charlotte Day Treatment. This work allows her to see the bigger picture of each child’s life. “I get to interact with the family and the different members of the child’s team, and I can get a better picture of the whole child, not just what I see in Day Treatment or read through an assessment. Being part of a team working to make a positive difference in the child’s life.”
Even with decades of experience, Fran admits the hardest part is when families are not fully engaged in the process. “Sometimes they have the attitude of ‘just fix my kid’ and when trying to explain that it takes all of us working together, they do not receive that well.”
Through every challenge, she has held onto the mission and heart of Alexander. “I really believe in our mission statement of providing professional treatment to children with serious emotional and behavioral problems. We may not see the change right away, but I know the tools we give them can stay with them for life.”
What has kept her grounded after so many years is the sense of family and belonging she feels with her colleagues, paired with the life she has built outside of work. “I like that I can express myself to my co-workers and voice concerns and feel heard most of the time. I think I am a team player and try to support our team. I have grown-up here starting at 24 and now 57–this is home to me.” Beyond Alexander, Fran finds joy in her church, her family, and her seven-year-old great-niece, who she spends a lot of time with.
Fran’s dedication has also gone beyond the classroom. One of her favorite projects was helping bring back the therapeutic garden at Charlotte Day Treatment. “Gardening can be very therapeutic, walking around smelling the flowers, pulling the weeds, and digging in the dirt. Watching something grow from a tiny seed is amazing. I wanted the children to be proud of something they helped cultivate.”
Her advice to those just starting in the field is simple, honest, and wise. “Make sure you are here for the right reason. Helping the children and teaching them how to help themselves through the different self-regulation techniques. This field can be stressful and overwhelming, but knowing you can make a difference will keep you going. Make sure you have self-care plans to help you stay grounded and regulated. It is ok to take breaks when you need them. This job can be hard, but rewarding at the same time.”
More than three decades later, Fran’s presence continues to be a gift to the children, families, and colleagues around her. She has built a legacy of compassion, one child and one moment at a time.
Written by Shay Woodard
