YWCA St. Paul logo

Success Story: Tavanja

Fearful for their safety, Tavanja bravely fled an abusive relationship to start a new life for herself and her three children. Although relieved to be free from the violence, starting over was especially difficult because it took her far away from family and friends.

After spending three months at a domestic violence shelter, Tavanja and her children joined YWCA St. Paul’s Transitional Housing Program (THP), where she began working with her case manager to rebuild her life. Within a year, she made incredible strides, earning both her General Educational Development (GED) diploma and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials.

Armed with new skills, Tavanja was ready to help when her neighbor suffered 3rd-degree burns in an apartment fire. Putting her training to use, she volunteered to provide aftercare and wound management.

Today, Tavanja is focused on expanding her credentials and achieving her goal of landing a job at a hospital. She’s currently enrolled in a phlebotomy program and looks forward to securing a position where she can use her passion for helping others.

Read More from YWCA St. Paul

Sarah O’Brien

As Director of Advancement at YWCA Saint Paul, Sarah O’Brien provides strategic development and fundraising leadership and leads the organization’s development and communications team. Sarah

Read More »

Ivette Izea-Martinez

Mrs. Izea-Martinez provides overall leadership and direction to YWCA St. Paul’s Youth Development, Housing & Supportive Services, and Employment & Economic Development programs. She is

Read More »

Jessica Fowler

As Assistant Director of Maintenance and Facilities at the YWCA, Jessica Fowler provides overall facilities and compliance management for YWCA St. Paul Supportive Housing Properties, Administration Building, and Health & Fitness Center.

Read More »

Shanene Herbert

Shanene Herbert is a long-standing resident of North Minneapolis whose lived experience and life work has put her in a unique position to lead conversations about the impact of systemic racism on Black and brown youth.

Read More »

YWCA St. Paul uses cookies to give you the best user experience. If you continue to use our services, we will assume that you agree to the use of such cookies.