Our Staff
Meet the Families First Team! These experienced and dedicated people bring their passion for enriching the lives of families to work every day. Whether you’re looking for advice for helping a teething toddler or a testing teen, or your family seeks fun experiences to learn through play – these are the people who are there to listen, teach and create programs that are helpful, safe and inclusive of all families.
Katie Samuels Executive Director |
With a decade of experience in education and over a year in advocacy for survivors of domestic violence, Katie has become a trusted resource known for her active listening skills and unwavering desire to help others. She excels in differentiating support and is a passionate advocate for forming meaningful relationships. Katie wholeheartedly believes in the transformative power of education and the potential of every child, regardless of their background, to make a meaningful impact on our world. She is passionate about educating and empowering families.
Outside of work, Katie is an avid adventurer who loves exploring with her pup, Arthur, hiking, skiing, and traveling. Email Katie |
Katie Little child enrichment Director |
Katie joined Families First in 2018. Before working for the organization, she volunteered on the Families First Board of Directors. Katie has been in Missoula working for Non-Profit Organizations for almost 20 years. Her biggest passion is spending time with kids and families, especially her own two children.
Katie’s hidden talent is fort building or, so her son thinks. She loves the magic of play, especially when it comes from the minds of kiddos. Katie can’t wait to explore and dream up fun with you and your family. Be on the lookout for our our new mobile exhibits! Email Katie |
Jessica Carrol Child Enrichment Coordinator |
Jessica started with Families First in 2022 when she first moved to Missoula. She is continually inspired by the kids she gets to interact with and learn from in the Missoula Public Library. She is passionate about early childhood education and literacy programs. In the summer she enjoys facilitating a Reading & Eating program for in-need communities, providing free books to Missoula children.
Jessica enjoys helping out in animal welfare programs and women in science organizations. Her goal is to be a fun, positive, and productive addition to the community. In her free time she enjoys exploring western Montana! But she always has time to sit down with a good book at the end of the day. Email Jessica |
Brittany Simonich GRANTS PROGRAM DIRECTOR |
Brittany joined the Families First team in 2023 and now serves as the Grants Program Director. Brittany believes deeply in the power of community and is passionate about advancing Families First’s mission through impactful grant-funded programs. Brittany and her family have lived in Polson for the past 15 years, where she remains an active community member.
In her free time, Brittany enjoys playing pickleball, going on hiking adventures, and cheering on her daughters at their sporting events. Email Brittany |