Tiffani was nominated for People of Portage County because when you think of a selfless person you think of Tiffani. She is the first person that is always mentioned when someone is in need of help. Tiffani gives and gives to our community and she never looks for anything in return. Her giving nature has inspired many to do better and give more. Our community is made better because of Tiffani. 

Tiffani was born and raised in Stevens Point. 

In 2010 a few members of the Evergreen church took over the doing meals for the Place of Peace. They were also involved with doing Movies in the Park and homeless outreach projects. What sparked the Kids Closet, was when making and serving the meals at Place of Peace they started getting more families coming through that were in need. Tiffani says there were even babies, she had seen a baby in footie pajama’s, and his toes were sticking right through the ends. With her being a foster parent, she always had a stash of clothes in her basement. She realized that she did not have enough clothing to provide for all of the children in need on her own, so she started advocating on social media in 2013 to help these children. Her social media pleas were heard, and the community joined her in a compassionate and real way. Kids Closet has been known to help over 200 children a month now. 

Tiffani has overcome a lot to be able to afford and maintain Kids Closet and in her personal life. The ‘Helping Hands’ Facebook page is their main way to communicate what needs the Kids Closet has. It has been very helpful because the community always steps up and provides, so there hasn’t been any need they haven’t been able to meet. 

When Tiffani moved away from the community for a while, she was in her late teen's early twenties, she got into drugs and ended up being a meth addict. She was also homeless for a time. From that experience she gained a special understanding for women who suffer from addiction and/or poverty. She is a case worker at the women's shelter, and she has been able to assist many to recovery. 

Where are you headed? 

She just wants to be the best mom that she can for her children. She wants to teach them to understand people as a whole and not to judge others or the situation someone is in. 

Tiffani’s Favorites: 

Song: ‘Do Something’ - Matthew West 

Food: Pho- a Vietnamese dish  

Book: The Bible 

Quote: Live, Laugh, Love, and Love some more. 

What makes you happy? 

Her children. She has 5, but she has fostered over 30 children. She enjoys being a mentor for mom’s and a healthy connection for children.  

What can people from the community learn form you? 

Everyone can do something. We can all make a difference.  

Her mission is to help those in need, by encouraging others to get involved.  

What is your most deeply held belief? 

Mark 12:31- Love thy neighbor as yourself 

Do you prefer to donate time or money to those in need? Why? 

 She donates her time. She is fully capable of being the hands and feet, that’s all she can give. When people are down, they don’t need your money they need a friend. 

Who’s your hero? 

Her dad. He was always supportive and never judgmental. 

Also, Brad Rodgers- back when Tiffani was a drug addict, he was a straight up good friend to her. He bought a house for her and a gave her money when she was struggling and had nowhere to go. Three months after she got clean, he died in a car accident. From that moment on she has been inspired to pay it forward.