our team
WomenFirst Staff
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Loyalty Hustler
Certified Recovery Mentor and Peer Support Specialist
As an empathic peer mentor, I am here to listen, support, and guide you through life experiences with understanding and care. I truly believe that we all need a little extra support sometimes, and I'm committed to creating a safe space where you can feel heard and valued.
Whether you're dealing with stress, personal challenges, or simply want someone to talk to, I want to be a resource that helps you feel less alone in the process. I’ve been where you are, and I know how important it is to have someone who can relate and offer guidance with compassion.
I’m passionate about behavioral and mental health, community involvement, and empowerment, and I’m here to offer any support you might need whether that’s helping with resources, suggesting self-care practices, or just being a friendly ear.
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Makietha Gross
Resource Navigator and House Manager
As House Manager at WomenFirst, I’m committed to creating a stable, substance-free, and supportive environment for women transitioning out of incarceration. I work closely with WomenFirst staff and community partners to maintain a safe, healthy home where participants can focus on rebuilding their lives. From administering random drug screenings to conducting weekly house meetings and coordinating with maintenance, I handle the day-to-day operations that keep the house running smoothly. I prioritize open communication, mutual respect, and accountability—both to uphold program standards and to foster trust with each woman in the home. Whether it's reporting notable behavior, ordering supplies, or preparing a room for a new arrival, every task I take on is rooted in the belief that housing is more than just shelter—it's a foundation for transformation.
What excites me most about this work is the chance to witness real, lasting change. Helping women reconnect with their families, access vital resources, and rediscover their confidence is deeply rewarding. Their resilience inspires me, and their victories—big or small—fuel my drive. I feel honored to walk beside them as they break cycles of incarceration, homelessness, and hardship. The best part of my job is knowing I’m not just managing a house—I’m helping build a community where healing, growth, and hope are possible. This isn’t just work to me—it’s purpose.
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Tonya Jones
Interim Executive Director
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Candace Wennig
Deputy Director
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Meshauna
DV Advocate
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Jasmine
Housing Navigator