Paula Gaertner

I am a nonprofit leader and community development professional with over three decades of experience in education, social services, and neighborhood revitalization. I currently serve as Executive Director of Thomas Dunn Learning Center in St. Louis, Missouri, a role I have held since February 2014. At Thomas Dunn Learning Center, I continue the vision of our founder for a learned and peaceful society with a mission to build sustainable communities through education. We achieve this mission by providing lifelong learning opportunities that promote individual growth and enhance the community's quality of life, offering free and low-cost classes, workshops, and events for teens through the elderly in the Dutchtown neighborhood and beyond.

Before leading Thomas Dunn Learning Center, I served as a Community Development Professional at the St. Louis Community Empowerment Foundation for over three years, where I worked to strengthen neighborhoods and support community-based initiatives. Prior to that, I served as Resident Services Program Manager at Community Asset Management Company (CAMCO) for over five years, where I managed programs and services for residents in community housing.

Earlier in my career, I spent eight years at FamilyForward in Greater St. Louis as a Foster Care and Adoption Trainer, Program Liaison, and Intensive In-Home Services provider, where I supported families and children through some of their most challenging moments. I also served as Director of Havens Transitional Housing at Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services for four years, where I led transitional housing programs for families in need.

Across my career in nonprofit leadership, community development, and social services, my work has been driven by a deep commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities and ensuring that individuals and families have access to the education, resources, and support they need to thrive. Whether I am leading a learning center, developing community programs, or supporting families in crisis, I believe that lasting change happens when we invest in people, build relationships, and create opportunities for growth and connection.