Employee Spotlight – Meet Tonya!

Here at Code of Support, we do the critical work of assisting veterans, caregivers, and military families in need. In order to do this important work, we rely in part, on grants. Enter, Tonya!

Tonya joined the COSF team at the beginning of 2021 as our very first full-time Grant Writer. She helps find new grant opportunities and communicates our mission daily. Tonya is a fantastic team member, she is forward-thinking, creative and, of course, an excellent writer!

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love to write! In fact, if we had an in-person office and my teammates said to me, “Tonya, I need you to go write in that corner all day.” I totally would. I just get in the zone…and…well…write. I also have been a theatre instructor before. I would not be opposed to leading the group in an improv or acting class. We could see how fun that is via Zoom! 

What are some tasks you do daily?

Wake up – time for coffee. Get dressed – time for coffee. Go to work – time for coffee. Just kidding! I do more than just get coffee.  In all seriousness, in the short time I have been at COSF, I have gotten to know just how BIG our impact really is on the veteran community. I really enjoy my daily tasks of research, writing grants, and implementing a grant calendar. I am a creative person, but I also work really well on a solid timeline with routines (see coffee routine above). 

Why are you passionate about the military/veteran community? 

My Dad was a U.S. Army Veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He was the type of guy who “told it like it is.” He started his service at the age of 18. He was stationed in Germany, and his job title was Chef. He would tell me stories of the times he cooked for many service members, some of whom would volunteer to leave Germany to fight on the frontlines. My Dad passed in September of 2020. He lived with a non-service related disability, and in the final few years of his life, dementia. When the opportunity to work for COSF came about, I immediately thought of him. The work I do here reminds me of him daily.

Who inspires you?

My kids inspire me! Especially to worry less and laugh more. When my two sons are together they have the best time even though there is an age difference (3 years old and 10 years old). With my husband thrown in the mix, we can really have a good time. My oldest son’s favorite saying is “never give up.” He lives with a chronic illness and definitely sees doctors more than many kids his age, but that doesn’t stop him from living life. He loves trips! One of our favorite adventures is Disney World and we can’t wait to go back. I am very afraid of heights though. You will never find me on Space Mountain. I will always be over in Fantasyland.