September 2, 2025

The following is what one of several employees said about Finance Director Gerald Carter in nominating him for Employee of the Month.

“Gerald consistently goes above and beyond his job description without ever voicing a complaint, at least not out loud. He’s become something of an “Office Dad,” always ready to step in where needed.

“Bug in the breakroom? Call Gerald.

“Shredder bag overflowing? Gerald’s on it.

“Something heavy to move? You guessed it, Gerald.

“I once had a client who urgently needed $60 to submit a housing application that same day or they would lose the opportunity entirely.

“Due to circumstances, we weren’t able to provide the funds through official channels, timely. Without hesitation, Gerald handed me $70 in cash from his own wallet, enough to cover both the application fee and the money order.

“While I believe Gerald was reimbursed, I don’t think he realized the full impact of his gesture. His quick action not only secured housing for the client helping them move from the nursing home back into the community, but it also lifted a huge weight off my shoulder. That single act created a domino effect that changed a life and brought real relief in a moment of urgency.

“Gerald steps up and does a lot for the office in front and behind the scenes. I think it would be nice for us to say thank you and show that he isn’t taken for granted.”

__________________

Name: Gerald Carter                                                          

Job Title: Finance Director

How long have you been at TARCOG and what do you do? 15 years. I oversee the financial operations of the agency.

What did you want to be when you grew up? Airplane pilot

What do you hope to accomplish within the next year? Create a better work/life balance.

Who is your hero and why? The A-Team. They help people. 

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?  Ride an ATV all day.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you? Communication is key.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Bungie jump.

Who knows you the best? My wife, Veronica.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Count every penny.

Finance Director Gerald Carter        

August 5, 2025

Name: Ashley Johnson

Title: Medicaid Waiver Case Manager Supervisor

How long have you been at TARCOG and what do you do? I have been at TARCOG for three years on Aug. 1. I supervise case managers in the Medicaid Waiver program.

What did you want to be when you grew up?  My decision has changed numerous times since I was a child, but I always knew I wanted to help others.

What do you hope to accomplish within the next year?  I hope to accomplish going back to school and finish the last two classes for my master’s in social work.

Who is your hero and why? My mom is my hero because she went through treatments for breast cancer, and I got to see her being strong and not let it get her down.

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be? I’m a homebody, so any time I get a chance to be home, I enjoy it. I get to kick back and put my feet up while watching TV. I also like to spend time with my dog, Coco. 

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you? Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. It reminded me that progress matters more than perfection, and that waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment or outcome can often hold us back from achieving great things.

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I moved to Huntsville in 2020, away from my family and friends. Not knowing anyone but still taking a chance is very daring to me.

Who knows you the best? My best friend Breona. We have been friends since 2010, and she knows the ups and downs of everything.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Pay off debt and retire my parents if I could.

TARCOG Medicaid Waiver Case Manager Supervisor Ashley Johnson