10 Stories of HOPE: Tanya’s Story

April 4th, 2023

Tanya has been a part of HOPE 4 Youth for almost 10 years starting in 2014. She became a part of HOPE 4 Youth after hearing Brian Swanson, the founder, being interviewed on KARE 11. Tanya heard Brian explain the mission of HOPE 4 Youth along with the shocking number of homeless youth within the Anoka Hennepin School District. At the end of the interview, Brian stated their need for support from volunteers. Tanya stated, “This interview with Brian was an absolute game changer for me in my life. I have lived, worked, and worshipped in this community, at that time, for over 21 years. I wanted to give back to the community in any way possible.”

Soon after, Tanya applied, interviewed, and began volunteering at our Donations Center. Over the years, she has been a Donations volunteer and a member of the Fundraising Committee. She is currently a member of the Gala Committee and Finance Committee. Over the past year has been contracted by HOPE 4 Youth serving as our Finance Controller.

Tanya is encouraged by her passion to help others. She explained, “Being a part of HOPE 4 Youth allowed me to fulfill my passion by helping others (youth, staff, Board, and volunteers) in whatever capacity to work towards the mission to provide pathways to end youth homelessness.”

Through her experience with HOPE 4 Youth, Tanya has grown in all areas of her life. She stated, “I have grown to lead a life full of compassion and empathy while also striving to use my talents to help others. This has helped me to become a better person and allowed me to give back to my community.” Tanya values HOPE 4 Youth’s noticeable impact on the youth they serve every day. She stated,

“The youth are given opportunities to have their basic needs met and given the tools to help them flourish outside the walls of HOPE 4 Youth. Together we are making a difference in the lives of the youth we serve. So wonderful to see!”