Tanya Croy has been an active Board member of Protected Harbor since 2017. As a Collier County educator of twenty-one years, she regularly taught both mainstream students and students with varying degrees of learning abilities.

Upon retirement, Tanya wanted to continue serving people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Having been aware of Protected Harbor since its inception, it was a natural fit for her to join the Board and begin working with the special people she loves. In addition to serving as a Director, Tanya also serves on the Fundraising Committee, a vital role she enjoys because of her opportunity to interact with donors who support the mission of Protected Harbor.

What makes Tanya smile is knowing that this work is dedicated to God and to those He created. The security, training, spiritual growth, and sense of family provided to all the clients by Protected Harbor is a source of infinite enjoyment. Some of her favorite memories have been the Olympics held at one of our homes and volunteering at Trailways Spiritual Camp retreats. Those were special times of bonding and great fun with the clients.

Protected Harbor is a family affair with Tanya. Her son, Nick Ferrao, serves on the Board while lending his expertise with technology, while her daughter, Marissa Godlewski volunteers on the Marketing Committee. Nick has engrained the mantra, “bring up Protected Harbor in all your conversations” and rarely an opportunity goes by that Protected Harbor is not mentioned. The enthusiasm and heart for service shine through this family’s efforts.

Looking forward to our annual Homes with Heart luncheon in March, Tanya adds: “I am excited that Protected Harbor will be unveiling new, ambitious goals and an expansion of the types of services we offer adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Knowing we will help the rapidly increasing number of adults with special needs throughout Southwest Florida is very gratifying.”

Tanya knows where her strength and direction come from. Her favorite Bible verse is “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13