• jtreuber@projectforwardinc.org
  • St.Cloud, Minnesota

Our Team

Janai Treuber

Founder/President

Jana’i has dedicated her career to the nonprofit industry, starting as a volunteer with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army as a teenager. She has since become a professional advocate for various vulnerable populations, including victims of family violence, homeless youth, families, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Jana’i graduated with her Associates degree in Human Services in 2012 and focused on helping the homeless in the Midwest. She founded Project Forward, a nonprofit that received sponsorship and private grants during the pandemic, enabling her to purchase computers and equipment for her clients’ educational and professional goals.

Jana’i also created one of the first virtual learning classrooms to help clients obtain their GED’s, prepare for college entrance exams, and complete certificate programs. Jana’i recognized the importance of lifelong learning and went back to school in August 2021 at the University of Southern New Hampshire. In the same month, she received approval for her project and a housing support agreement from Mille Lacs County to cover the costs of housing her participants through June 2022. Jana’i’s efforts and persistence paid off, and she obtained a partner loan in December 2021 to cover the costs of furnishing the home and operating expenses for the first three months. In January 2022, Project Forward passed the Minnesota Health Department inspection, and Jana’i was granted a Board and Lodge license, launching Project Forward’s Community Housing Project to provide housing and support services to veterans and homeless men. In March 2022, Jodi Engren joined Jana’i as her partner to expand Project Forward’s reach and impact. Together, they are determined to empower underserved communities and make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families in need. Jodi’s contributions were recognized, and she was appointed a board seat in May 2022, then promoted to Program Director in October 2022.

Project Forward became a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) and one of Minnesota’s first supplemental support providers, further highlighting its commitment to empowering underserved communities in Central Minnesota. Project Forward relocated its office to St Cloud in August 2022, positioning itself closer to the people it serves and contributing positively to the local economy. Jana’i earned her Bachelor’s in General Psychology with Summa Cum Laude honors in October 2022, a testament to her hard work, dedication, and leadership in the community. In November 2022, Project Forward received support from MAC-VEE and The American Legion Post 178, enabling the organization to provide housing and support services to more veterans in Central Minnesota. Project Forward celebrated its first year of providing housing and support services to veterans and homeless men on January 21st, 2023, a significant milestone for the organization and underserved communities in Central Minnesota. On January 31st, 2023, Project Forward received approval for its 245D Licensure, a testament to the organization’s commitment to empowering its clients and contributing to the community’s welfare. In April 2023, Project Forward was awarded the Provider Capacity Grant for Rural and Underserved Communities Round 2, made possible by the Minnesota State Department of Human Services. Enabling the organization to extend its reach and enhance its programs and services, driving positive impacts in underserved communities. The Project Forward team remains dedicated to its mission and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
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Jodi Engren​

Program Director​

Jodi joined Project Forward Inc. in March of 2022. bringing with her a wealth of experience and passion for helping the homeless. She has dedicated her life to serving and advocating for the homeless individuals and is known for going above and beyond to make them feel heard and supported.

Since joining Project Forward Inc., Jodi has become an indispensable member of the team, serving as a live-in house manager and contributing to the organization’s mission to provide housing and support services to veterans and homeless men in Central Minnesota. Her relentless commitment to improving the welfare of underserved communities has earned her a board seat and a promotion to Program Director in October, 2022.

Together with Jana’i and the Project Forward team, Jodi is determined to drive meaningful change, empower individuals and families in need, and contribute positively to the community’s welfare. Jodi’s extensive experience working with the homeless has made her comfortable offering emotional support in any way she can. She provides a listening ear and offers words of encouragement to those who are struggling or feeling down, providing a much-needed boost as they work to rebuild their lives.

In her role as live-in house manager and Program Director, Jodi helps clients meet their basic needs, including food, clothing and transportation. She works with them to create individualized goal plans to overcome barriers to employment and housing that have led to homelessness.

By enabling clients to acquire new skills and resources, Jodi and the Project Forward team help empower them to rebuild their lives and live independently. Jodi’s tireless contributions and compassionate approach have earned her the respect and admiration of clients and colleagues alike, making her a crucial part of Project Forwards efforts to drive positive change and create a lasting impact in the community.

Tyler Stull

Volunteer Recovery Coordinator,

Tyler Stull is a passionate advocate for recovery and community support, serving as the Volunteer Recovery Coordinator at Project Forward Inc. With a deep-rooted commitment to helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys, Tyler plays a vital role in fostering a supportive environment for clients and volunteers alike.
Having experienced the transformative power of community and support firsthand, Tyler understands the challenges faced by those in recovery. Her personal journey has fueled her desire to give back, and she is dedicated to empowering others to achieve their goals and reclaim their lives. As the Volunteer Recovery Coordinator, Tyler works tirelessly to connect individuals with the resources they need, ensuring they feel supported and valued throughout their recovery process.
In her role, Tyler oversees the recruitment, training, and management of volunteers, cultivating a team that shares her passion for helping others. She believes that volunteers are the backbone of any successful recovery program, and she strives to create an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere where everyone can contribute their unique skills and experiences.
Tyler is known for her exceptional communication skills and empathetic approach, allowing her to build strong relationships with clients and volunteers. She actively engages with participants, providing guidance and encouragement as they work towards their personal goals. Her dedication to fostering a sense of community is evident in her efforts to organize volunteer activities and events that promote connection and collaboration.
With a background in as a recovery technician ,peer support and community service, Tyler brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. She is committed to continuous learning and growth, regularly seeking out training and development opportunities to enhance her skills and better serve the needs of the Project Forward community.
As a Volunteer Recovery Coordinator, Tyler Stull embodies the spirit of Project Forward Inc. Her unwavering commitment to supporting individuals in recovery and her ability to inspire and motivate others make her an invaluable asset to the organization. Through her work, Tyler is helping to create a brighter future for those on their journey to healing and self-sufficiency.

Toyea Hakso

Housing Navigator

Working with Project Forward Inc and The Purple Valor Project is awesome.” They are committed to finding resources for their clients in the areas of medical needs, housing and various other necessities with the goal of getting each client back on their feet and reintegrating them into the community where they choose to live permanently.

They are partnered with various organizations like Americorps Ampact Heading Home Corps, MAC-V.org, VSO, DHS, as well as countless local organizations with the goal of stabilization and better life choices. I am excited to be a part of this organization for the next year with Americorps Ampact Heading Home Corps as their Housing Navigator.

Ashley Streed

Program Manager

Ashley Streed is a dedicated and compassionate professional with a strong commitment to helping individuals on their journey to recovery. As the Program Manager at Project Forward Inc., Ashley brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those in recovery.

Having been a model participant in the Project Forward program herself, Ashley understands firsthand the importance of support, guidance, and community in overcoming obstacles. Since joining the program on August 1st, she has not only remained sober but has also actively engaged in her own recovery process, demonstrating her resilience and determination to rebuild her life.

In her role as Program Manager, Ashley excels in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all residents. She has taken on the responsibilities of a “House Mom,” ensuring that newcomers feel at home and are integrated into the program seamlessly. Ashley’s empathetic nature allows her to connect with clients on a personal level, helping them navigate their recovery journeys while providing encouragement and practical assistance.

Ashley is also committed to empowering residents through goal planning and resource navigation. She works closely with clients to develop personalized goal plans, assists them in finding essential resources, and accompanies them to appointments, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. Her dedication to service extends beyond the program, as she volunteers her time to transport clients to work, grocery shopping, and other essential activities.

With a background in peer support and a strong desire to make a positive impact, Ashley has become an invaluable asset to Project Forward Inc. She actively participates in weekly group therapy sessions and collaborates with other recovery professionals to enhance the support network for residents.

Ashley’s journey from participant to Program Manager exemplifies her commitment to recovery and her passion for helping others achieve their goals. Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering support make her an essential part of the Project Forward team, and she is dedicated to continuing the mission of empowering individuals to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.

Osagie

House Manager

Osayame Igho-Osagie is a dedicated and compassionate House Manager at Project Forward Inc., where he plays a pivotal role in creating a safe and supportive environment for residents on their recovery journeys. With a strong background in community service and a passion for helping others, Osayame is committed to empowering individuals as they work towards rebuilding their lives.
Osayame brings a wealth of experience in managing residential programs and fostering a sense of community among residents. His empathetic nature and excellent communication skills allow him to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that each resident feels valued and understood. As House Manager, he is responsible for overseeing daily operations, maintaining a positive living environment, and providing guidance and support to residents as they navigate their recovery.
In his role, Osayame is not only a manager but also a mentor and advocate for residents. He actively engages with individuals, offering encouragement and practical assistance as they set and pursue their personal goals. His approachable demeanor creates an atmosphere of trust, allowing residents to feel comfortable sharing their challenges and triumphs.
Osayame is passionate about fostering a sense of community within the house. He organizes group activities that promote connection and collaboration among residents, helping them build supportive relationships that are crucial to their recovery process. His dedication to creating a nurturing environment contributes to the overall success of the program.
With a commitment to continuous improvement, Osayame stays informed about best practices in recovery support and actively seeks opportunities for professional development. He believes in the power of education and training to enhance his skills and better serve the needs of the residents.
As House Manager at Project Forward Inc., Osayame Igho-Osagie embodies the organization’s mission to provide housing and resources for individuals overcoming barriers to their independence. His unwavering support, leadership, and genuine care for residents make him an invaluable asset to the team, and he is dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting recovery and self-sufficiency.

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