After an extensive career dedicated to assisting others, Gwen Schooley is finally prepared to prioritize self-care.
Having served as the longstanding executive director of “Life Stories Child and Family Advocacy,” a nonprofit organization focused on aiding child victims of abuse, Schooley is set to retire at the end of the upcoming month, culminating over 15 years of leadership.
Expressing her sentiments, she mentioned, “The prospect of having a bit less on my plate sounds quite appealing at this point. I believe I am ready for a change of pace, perhaps dedicating more time to self-care and family.”
Schooley embarked on this journey over 35 years ago as a young mother, leading a local La Leche group and conducting parenting classes in Greeley.
Her professional trajectory includes over 20 years with Child Advocacy Resource and Education, a now-defunct organization whose initiatives have been assimilated by other local advocacy groups. Subsequently, she assumed the helm at Life Stories in the spring of 2008, a role she has held ever since.
Reflecting on her experience, Schooley remarked, “It has been a true privilege for me to work within this community. I have gleaned invaluable lessons from numerous individuals, and that has been the cornerstone of my education.”
Throughout her tenure at Life Stories—initially known as A Kids Place during her tenure at Child Advocacy Resource and Education—she witnessed the organization’s evolution from its inception at United Way to a modest office downtown, eventually flourishing into an entity that catered to over 1,100 clients in 2023.
Managing various staff transitions, fluctuating board compositions, and three relocations, she ultimately established the organization’s current base on 25th Avenue in 2018.
“Transitioning from our humble beginnings to our current standing fills me with immense pride,” remarked Board Director Adam Turk, who also serves as the Greeley Police Chief. “When we speak of legacy, we refer to leaving a place better than we found it. It is indisputable that Gwen has achieved precisely that.”
Turk assumed the role of Life Stories board chair nine years ago, forging a strong bond with Schooley—a friendship that has deepened over a building renovation, navigating the challenges of the pandemic, and is poised to endure beyond Schooley’s retirement.
Apart from their camaraderie, Turk emphasized the significance of the relationships Schooley has nurtured over the years, underscoring the essence of her tenure.
“One aspect that evokes a sense of nostalgia is the network and relationships Gwen has cultivated,” Turk acknowledged. “These connections are not established overnight.”
Beyond her contributions to Life Stories, Schooley has actively participated in numerous statewide advocacy boards and committees, disseminating the local initiatives to various corners of Colorado.
Her impact extends beyond the state level, resonating strongly within Weld County. Through her involvement with Life Stories and other endeavors, she has become a prominent figure in the community.
“Gwen is a cornerstone of this community—it transcends Life Stories. It encompasses our fundraising efforts and the multitude of lives we touch,” Turk affirmed.
As 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of Life Stories in Greeley, the organization transitioned successfully to its new premises over five years ago, culminating in the addition of a medical examination room and a mental health suite in 2022.
For Schooley, the timing felt right.
“It can be challenging to depart after investing a significant amount of time, as there are often unfinished projects,” she acknowledged. “However, it seemed like an opportune moment to step back.”
Looking ahead, Schooley’s next steps remain uncertain. While she anticipates continued community involvement, the specific form of her future endeavors is yet to be defined.
“I aspire to further engage within the community, although the specifics are still unclear,” she shared. “Nonetheless, I am not preoccupied with the details at this juncture.”
Despite her impending retirement, Schooley remains dedicated to supporting Life Stories, given her profound investment over the past 16 years.
“It is paramount for me to assist Life Stories through this transition,” she affirmed. “With a talented team poised to carry the torch, I am committed to offering my support wherever necessary.”
With eight children and six grandchildren residing across the country, retirement will afford Schooley the opportunity to travel more extensively.
Above all, retirement symbolizes a new chapter brimming with possibilities.
“Primarily, I am filled with anticipation,” Schooley expressed. “I am eager for the fresh experiences that await me in the next phase of my journey.”