Our Team
Founder/ Executive Director
Tanya Brownrigg
Tanya Brownrigg is a seasoned leader with over 18 years of experience in community service, advocacy, and service management. Throughout her career, Tanya has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing social justice and supporting underserved populations. She has held various executive and leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Operations, Strategic Planning, Director of Admissions, and Customer Care, consistently driving organizational success while prioritizing meaningful community impact.
Tanya is committed to solution-focused strategies, innovation, and reinvention—continuously identifying gaps and creating responsive, survivor-centered programs that meet evolving community needs. After completing a comprehensive needs assessment, she led the decision for Victims Empowerment Support Team (VEST) to relocate to Vallejo in June 2025 to eliminate barriers to services and expand access for survivors in the region.
In July 2025, Tanya expanded VEST’s impact by launching the RISE Therapy Program (Rise, Inspire, Support, Empower), providing free, trauma-informed therapy services to survivors and their children—addressing a critical gap in mental health support and promoting long-term healing and stability. She also developed the Survivor Speaker Program, Truth Out Loud: From Hurt to Heard—a transformative initiative designed to help survivors reclaim their voice and share their truth with strength and purpose. Through group workshops and one-on-one coaching, participants learn to transform personal experiences into powerful, healing narratives that inspire awareness, advocacy, and social change.
Her true passion lies in empowering individuals and families, with a special focus on mentoring young women and supporting victims of crime. Her work has made a tangible difference, providing guidance, advocacy, and critical support during pivotal moments to help survivors rebuild their lives. Tanya is deeply committed to domestic violence policy advocacy and fostering strong, collaborative partnerships across systems of care. She is recognized as an activist, a trailblazer, and a leader committed to advancing meaningful and lasting social change.
In recognition of her leadership and dedication to gender equity and social justice, Tanya was selected as a Rise Up Visionary Leader for the 2024 California Cohort. This prestigious honor reflects her commitment to advancing equity and justice, as well as her ongoing efforts to create sustainable, community-driven change.
As a devoted mother, Tanya believes deeply in the transformative power of guidance, healing, and support. She is particularly focused on helping survivors of violence break cycles of trauma and has a profound understanding of the complexities of intergenerational violence. Her lived passion and professional experience led her to found VEST in 2021 during the pandemic while serving as a social work intern at the Solano Family Justice Center. Through this work, she identified critical gaps in comprehensive, culturally specific services for survivors in Solano County and designed programs aligned with the Family Justice Center (FJC) framework—recognized as a national best practice in domestic violence intervention and prevention.
In addition to her work with VEST, Tanya collaborated with the Sonoma County Family Justice Center and the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office to implement a Domestic Violence High-Risk Team, strengthening coordinated community responses for individuals at the highest risk of lethality.
Tanya fosters an environment rooted in compassion, dignity, and empowerment—enabling individuals and families to overcome adversity and thrive. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Sacramento. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy, healing, and systems change continues to inspire and transform lives across the communities she serves.
Crisis Line Manager
Edna White
With over 13 years of experience in mental health, substance abuse, and case management, Edna brings deep expertise and a heart for service to her dual roles as VEST’s Crisis Line Manager and Confidential Advocate. She is a cornerstone of the organization—leading with empathy, grace, and strength. As a respected leader among advocates, Edna sets the tone by modeling integrity and compassion in every client and team interaction. She is known for meeting people where they are, supporting them without judgment, and ensuring everyone she encounters feels seen, heard, and valued.
Edna’s lived experience is her superpower. Not only is she a survivor of domestic violence—she is a thriver. Her personal journey of healing and her 20+ years in recovery from substance abuse uniquely position her to walk alongside clients with authenticity and understanding. Her story inspires others and reminds them that transformation and hope are possible.
As a member of VEST’s management team, Edna plays a vital role in shaping internal support practices and guiding new advocates. In addition to her leadership on the Crisis Line, Edna leads VEST’s community outreach efforts, organizing and participating in events that raise awareness about domestic violence, and available resources for those in crisis. She is often the face of VEST at tabling events, health fairs, and community forums—building trust, fostering partnerships, and connecting vulnerable populations to life-saving services.
Edna’s professional qualifications complement her personal experience. She holds a degree as a Medical Assistant and has earned certifications in Substance Abuse Treatment Counseling and Professional Recovery Coaching. She is also certified in Mental Health First Aid, equipping her with the tools to respond effectively and compassionately in moments of crisis.
Before joining VEST, Edna worked extensively with individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction. Her ability to relate without stigma and offer meaningful support has changed countless lives. She continues to be driven by a deep-rooted compassion to help others overcome trauma and find their voice.
Edna is not only a leader—she is a light. Her journey from surviving to thriving embodies the very mission of VEST, and her daily work uplifts those on the path to healing.
Board of Directors
President
Zina Lee
Zina Lee is a compassionate business owner and resident of Solano County. She takes pleasure in retaining exceptional values with consumer services and strong relationships. She has an extensive background in client care — working with children, adults and the elderly populations. Zina’s start in social services began by working with the developmentally disabled over 25 years ago. At that time, Zina opened her first Adult Residential Facility in Suisun City and Fairfield. Today, she has gained the support and respect of the community and the partners of the Regional Center. Zina continues to be dedicated to providing consumers with a safe place and supporting them in creating a better quality of life.
Vice President
Arlena Moran
Arlena Moran is a dedicated Social Work professional with over 13 years of experience in advocacy, community partnerships, and social services. Known for her resourcefulness, attention to detail, and ability to foster collaborative relationships, Arlena specializes in crisis management and excels in driving organizational success through strategic planning and compassionate care.
Arlena holds bachelor’s degrees in both Sociology and Chicano Studies and is a Master of Social Work. Her expertise in advocacy, administration, and community partnerships, combined with her strong communication and leadership skills, enables her to effectively support and empower vulnerable populations. She brings a holistic approach to her work, with a passion for advancing organizational growth while ensuring the well-being and empowerment of those she serves.
Secretary
Lisa Hillary
Lisa Hillary is a passionate healthcare professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Services and over 28 years of experience in pediatrics and women’s health. Her career began at Kaiser Permanente as a medical assistant, where her dedication to patient care quickly distinguished her as a trusted provider. Over the years, Lisa advanced into healthcare management, taking on leadership roles within Kaiser’s pediatrics and women’s health divisions, where she has overseen complex healthcare operations, ensuring that high-quality, compassionate care is delivered to patients. Lisa’s deep commitment to women’s and children’s health extends beyond her professional role. As a resident of Solano County for more than 20 years, she remains actively engaged in community service in Fairfield. She has spearheaded several local health initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and fostering healthier outcomes for women and children in underserved communities. Lisa’s efforts include organizing health education workshops, advocating for better maternal and child health services, and partnering with local organizations to address disparities in healthcare access. Her combination of clinical experience and management expertise, along with her passion for community advocacy, makes Lisa a powerful advocate for holistic and equitable healthcare. She is dedicated to building healthier, stronger communities by promoting preventive care, health education, and continuous support for vulnerable populations.
Treasurer
Gerri Jackson-Howard
Gerri Jackson-Howard is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of legal experience at the Department of Social Services, deeply committed to driving social change. Throughout her career, she has passionately advocated for oppressed and vulnerable individuals, helping them navigate complex systems to access essential resources and support. Gerri’s work is not just about legal representation; it’s about empowering communities and fostering resilience. She understands the barriers that underserved populations face and works tirelessly to dismantle these obstacles. Her role in VEST’s succession plan highlights her leadership and vision for the future, ensuring that the organization continues to thrive in its mission. Gerri’s commitment to advocacy and her deep understanding of social issues positions her as a transformative leader in the quest for equity and support for those in need.