Hello there! I'm Triniti Halverson, a proud Billings, Montana native whose professional journey has come full circle right back to the community that shaped me. Let me take you on a brief tour of my life and career.
Though I've lived in various places, Billings has always been my anchor, the place where I built my career. With a background in public health, my career path winds through college student health, domestic and sexual violence advocacy, and senior services. However, it was a realization of the profound connection between human health and our bonds with animal companions that brought me to where I am today.
I currently hold the role of Executive Director at the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter, a role I landed after recognizing the transformative impact animals can have on human well-being. I often joke that my job is to ensure we have the funds to save more lives, and there's some truth to that. I oversee the shelter's budget, fundraising efforts, programs, and more, ensuring the wheels of our mission are well-greased.
What makes my job truly special are the incredible people I work with – a team of creative, passionate, and downright funny individuals. Their dedication to our shared mission and their ability to inject humor into even the most challenging situations create a work environment like no other.
Every day brings new challenges and opportunities; no two days are alike. The dynamic nature of my job keeps me on my toes, preventing any hint of monotony. It's this ever-changing landscape that keeps me enthralled and excited about what each day might bring.
Billings, with its blend of size and some diversity, provides the perfect backdrop for my professional endeavors. The community's tight-knit feel, where you can bump into familiar faces, attend events, fundraisers, and support local stores, fosters a sense of belonging. The impact we make here is both visible and measurable, making my work all the more rewarding.
I take pride in the fact that I play a role in connecting with other community organizations, building donor relations, and ensuring that our shelter aligns with its overarching mission. It's not just a job for me; it's a passion that allows me to contribute positively to the lives of both humans and animals in our community.
Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter, YVAS for short, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the Billings area since 2009. We are proud to report that YVAS has grown to become the largest-volume animal shelter in the state, intaking over 5,000 animals annually. Not only do we help to facilitate adoptions of homeless animals & reunite lost pets with their owners, but we've also expanded many of our services. From obedience classes, to low-cost veterinary services, a free pet food & supply pantry, to summer camps for children - it is our vision of building a community where every animal is cared for.
Do you love animals and are interested in ways to help? There are many ways to get involved with YVAS - whether that be as an individual, family, or even through your business.
Unable to adopt, volunteer, or donate at this time? That's okay - you can still help lost & transitioning animals by being an advocate for Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter! Please help us spread the word about our shelter's mission, our animals, and various programs. Be sure to follow YVAS on Facebook and Instagram for more shelter updates and lots of cute photos.
