In every community, there are people who quietly go above and beyond—lifting others, meeting needs, and making a lasting impact. We call them Difference Makers. This issue, we are honored to highlight a truly unique and inspiring trio: sisters Tieraney, Tiffaney, and Torie. Each of these remarkable women has forged her own path, yet all share a common thread—a deep commitment to helping others and creating positive change in the world around them.
Though their individual stories stand alone, together they weave a powerful narrative of compassion, strength, and purpose. Whether through service, leadership, or advocacy, Tieraney, Tiffaney, and Torie remind us that making a difference often starts at home—with shared values, support, and a heart for community. We’re proud to celebrate each sister in her own feature and invite you to discover how this family of Difference Makers is leaving its mark in three distinct and meaningful ways.
From left to right: Tiffaney Rains-Eaton, Tieraney Craig, and Torie Cassens
Submitted by Jenna Klauser
In a world that often asks people to choose one path, one identity, or one title, Tiffaney Rains-Eaton stands as a beautiful reminder that a single life can hold multitudes. She is a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, and an aunt. Tiffaney is an extraordinary person known for uplifting and encouraging others within the community to make the changes they wish to see in themselves.
I met Tiffaney while working at Quincy Medical Group in 2012. From the very beginning, her bright and kind personality stood out, and we instantly bonded- helped along by our identical pink mopeds and her infectious laugh. Over the years, the support she has shown me has made me feel truly heard and valued. Watching her grow into an even more remarkable person has been such a gift. I’m beyond blessed to have her in my life- and lucky to call her my “bestie”.
In May of 2017, Tiffaney boldly embarked on the journey to adoption. Driven by her deep desire to become a mother and share the immense love in her heart, she saw adoption as a meaningful way to not only fulfill her dream but also change a young life forever. While the process was anything but easy, she faced every challenge with determination, grace, and unwavering commitment.
In November of 2018, she married Brian Eaton – and with Brian came his incredibly intelligent daughter, MJ, who instantly became a special part of Tiffaney’s life. Together, they created a beautiful, blended family built on love, connection, and new beginnings.
In August of 2020, Tiffaney gave birth to her sweet boy Kensen. Just a short time later, in November of 2020, her motherhood journey really took off when the opportunity to adopt finally came. Tiffaney, Brian, and newborn baby Kensen welcomed their beautiful daughter, Rinsley, into their hearts and home. She was blessed with embracing the beautiful complexity of creating family not just through birth, but through love.
Her roles in the home are matched by her dedication to others outside of it. In 2019, Tiffaney accepted the position of Head Coach for the Quincy Senior High School volleyball team. Her passion for the sport made it natural for her to bring unmatched energy and determination to the court. As a coach, she shaped not just athletes, but young minds – helping them discover confidence, resilience, and the power of teamwork. Now, as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with the Quincy Medical Group and an Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychology with John Wood Community College, Tiffaney guides, educates, and uplifts others every day. JWCC recently honored her with the Associate Faculty Member of the Year – 2025 award! Her students and clients alike benefit from her insight, compassion, and strength. She doesn’t just teach subjects or offer therapeutic advice – she teaches people how to believe in themselves, to find their voice, and to become more of who they are.
True to her spirit of constant growth, she is currently pursuing her master’s degree in sociology. It’s a testament to her relentless commitment to learning, evolving, and bettering herself not just for her own sake, but for the countless people who rely on her guidance and wisdom.
Tiffaney is not selfish with her time, as she actively contributes to numerous community events, always ready to support those around her. Whether it be lighting up the stage in Dancing with the Local Stars, crossing off “complete a 10K” from her bucket list with Bridge the Gap, brightening acquaintances with a smile while walking in Dogwood Parades, celebrating neurodiversity at the Great River Autism Connection Awareness and Acceptance Walk, or beautifying our city by picking up trash during Downtown Cleanups.
God inspires her to let her vibrant personality shine, so it’s impossible not to smile the moment she enters a room. Her bright, inviting smile radiates joy, instantly uplifting family, friends, and even complete strangers. With every engagement, she brings not just her presence but her purpose. She is a force of good, a source of insight, and a steady hand in this chaotic world.
What makes her truly exceptional isn’t just the many hats she wears, but the way she wears them – with intelligence, strength, and a deep abiding love. With her generous heart, she effortlessly forms deep and genuine connections with those around her. The difference she makes in others’ lives is inspiring. She believes wholeheartedly that every person should live as their truest self, and she creates space for others to do just that. Making a difference isn’t always visible- the way Tiffaney makes an impact is private, altruistic, and invaluable.
“If you want to be your best self, allow yourself to be seen and truly known by others.”
-Tiffaney Rains-Eaton