Getting to Know...
Nettie Scaife Maternity Group Home Lead
In her almost-three years with YES, Nettie Scaife has made a continued impact at YES.
A mother of 4, she loves kids and knows that she can make a positive impact in the lives of the youth we serve at YES. Needless to say, she's at the right organization and doing the work she loves!
Here's a Q&A to get to know more about Nettie and who she is personally and professionally!
What brought/led you to YES?
Honestly, I was working my prior job for three straight years with no clear direction. I began searching on Indeed and came across a posting for YES. It sounded interesting, and I always had a heart for helping others. I applied thinking they might or might not call back. But they did. So here we are!
When did you start/how long have you been with the organization?
Wow! I can't believe it's been almost three years since starting with YES! I started in September 2019.
What did you know about YES before working here and what have you learned that surprises you?
Honestly absolutely nothing. It's really surprising YES has been around since 1974. I think it's really cool hearing the story about how YES was created!
What is your background (what did you do before this)? Tell us about that work. What did you learn from it? What did you enjoy about it?
Before YES, I was working at Developmental Disabilities of Nebraska. The position I held was direct support, offering day-to-day care for youth with a variety of disabilities. I enjoyed knowing each day would be different. The biggest thing I learned is that we are all made different, but we are still the same. I enjoyed knowing I made a difference in someone's life each day.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and what would you do with it to make the world a better place?
Healing! In 2008, I lost my 18-year-old brother to gun violence. So many good people never get a real chance at life. I would heal our broken hearts because after a tragedy like this, your life will never be the same.
You were recently promoted. Tell us about your new role and what you want to accomplish in/with it.
I was recently promoted to Maternity Group Home lead! So Exciting! I'll be handing the day-to-day affairs onsite at MGH.
What do you do for fun? Hobbies? Interests?
One of my favorite things to do is karaoke. My family reminds me daily to never quit my day job, but I don't care. I also love picnics in the parks with my kiddos and watching the Olympics, specifically track and field.
Tell us about your family.
I have four children -- two boys and two girls. They're 16, 14, 12 and 4. You probably guessed it -- the four-year-old is the life of the party! My 16-year-old works two part-time jobs and will be a junior this year. I'm so proud of him! I still can't believe my 14-year-old daughter will be a freshman this year. She is so focused and determined to be successful. She has a small business called Beaded Beauties! She sells handcrafted jewelry. She also attends Step-Up Omaha for her summer job. My 12-year-old is my miracle baby. He was born premature at 1 lb, 6 oz. You would never know it if you saw him! His mind is so intelligent. He's into space and Greek mythology. My children are a reflection of me!
If you won a million dollars, what would you do first?
My first call would be to my mother, then my children. It's funny I was asked this question. My four-year-old recently said 'Mom, I wish you were rich so I can get all the toys in the world.' My reply was, one day. I would pay off bills, buy my mother a house, take my kiddos on a trip, give back to an organization of my choice and probably live life!
What continues to motivate/excite you about the work you do at YES? What kind of impact do you see the organization continuing to make in the future?
The youth we serve daily. Coming through the door smiling, greeting staff by name. The relationships we build along the way. Some of our youth don't have anything or anyone. So, them knowing this is a safe place to be is a win for me! It motivates me to keep going even when things seem impossible. I see great things in store for YES. The leadership team is making improvements all around. Growth is now a thing at YES. I'm excited to see what else is in store!
If you could meet anyone from history -- past or present -- who would it be and what would you ask them?
Wilma Rudolph. She was the fastest woman on earth. The thing is she contracted polio in her early teens and wore a brace on her legs, but that didn't stop her! Her motivation was untouchable. I would ask her, 'What pushed you to be greater?'
