The town of Ashland has a new Director at the Community Center. Candice Wilson will now fill the role of Senior and Social Services Director.

Town Manager Michael Herbert states in his announcement, “Candi was selected after an extensive public search process. We received several highly qualified candidates. The Town Administration and a representative from the Council of Aging interviewed six candidates. From that round of interviews, two were forwarded to me for final interviews. Candi was the best candidate for the position in terms of experience and fit. I am confident that she will continue to improve upon the good work Joanne Duffy did while also bringing new and exciting ideas and perspectives to the program.”

Wilson formerly served the Town of Ashland as the Outreach Coordinator at the Community Center, and before that, she was the Senior Center’s van driver and a volunteer in the Food Pantry.

“I am delighted to begin this next chapter in my life,” said Wilson proudly, “This role is my niche, and I’m very excited to continue advocating and helping seniors in the Ashland Community.”  

She added, “Many do not know this, but my mother actually retired as the Director of Senior Services in Chelmsford and served as the Director in Natick before that. I guess you can say this role is in my blood.”

Wilson’s knowledge of the community and the inner workings of the community center prepare her for this new role. Her current vision for the Community Center is strengthening relationships amongst staff and community organizations while supporting their efforts.

Additionally, Wilson wants to expand programming to reach seniors of all ages, collaborate with other town departments and organizations to increase the variety of activities offered, and provide more opportunities to support caregivers, “With my previous role as Outreach Coordinator, I’ve seen an increase in the number of individuals with Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and other memory conditions. I would love to see us expand our programs and events to support caregivers and provide affordable support options.”

Currently, Wilson and the staff at the Community Center, including the Human Services and Recreation Departments, continuously offer services, programs, and activities for the community. Be sure to stop by the Community Center to congratulate Candi on her new role and discover the opportunities available to you and your loved ones.

Information regarding programming is also available on the Town of Ashland website, ashlandmass.c