Adaptation, Engagement, Connection | YES Board Spotlight

Client voice and connection—two of our primary values at Youth Emergency Services (YES). By implementing both in our day-to-day operations and collective care approach, YES has continued to provide safe housing and support to Omaha's youth.

No matter the need, our organization strives to meet young people where they are. It is that commitment, YES Board President Kellie Harry believes, that has been instrumental to YES’ longstanding impact.

“Adaptation and engagement have been key to identifying the best way to provide our services,” she said. “The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, the evolution of how best to serve the youth and being able to engage our community supporters is how we’ve sustained and made progress.”

For 50 years, YES has looked for ways to connect with local youth, prompting our biggest adaptation yet: moving all program facilities to one location. By bringing together all nine of our housing properties under one roof, YES can continue to effectively meet the needs of Omaha's young people. Just as important, Kellie emphasizes, we can continue to foster connections among our youth, staff, volunteers, and other supporters in the community.

“Whether a new supporter or someone who has been behind the mission from the beginning, the people supporting YES have created genuine connections with the agency and made a remarkable impact," she said.

With these connections, YES has helped Omaha's youth thrive for the past 50 years. And, with these connections, YES will continue to help our youth thrive for the next 50 years and beyond.