Sharon is a long-time and regular donor to Youth Emergency Services.
Her support stretches back many decades, and her dedication is unparalleled.
Here, she discusses why she regularly supports YES and encourages others to do the same as often as they can.
How did you become associated with Youth Emergency Services?
I became acquainted with YES in 1976 when my husband was asked to help start the organization. He started on the original board of directors at that time.
You've been a long-time/regular supporter of YES. What motivates you to continue to give/support us?
My husband began giving a donation at Christmas, as his company would match the donation. We continued that even after he retired. This was an organization that really spoke to him, about the good works they do. And I met the other board members and spouses and thoroughly enjoyed our times together. YES has always had a great reputation in this community.
What do you enjoy/love about YES and its work to positively impact the lives of young homeless people in the community?
They work week after week to make sure the youth of Omaha have their needs met. And it can’t be easy!! I am sure the need grows each year, even with some youth becoming self-sufficient, more youth appear and need help.
During your years connected to YES, where have you seen its biggest impact in the community?
The organization was originally set up to help the youth who were out on the streets, to get help with housing and food. Now, it has grown amazingly to include education, pregnancy and employment assistance. The “thanks” for all this goes to the staff who run the office, and the donors who fund it.
My daughter works for a firm that one Christmas adopted YES as their fundraiser. Each employee donated either cash or usable products, and my daughter and I FILLED up her car and delivered it to them. I was so glad to see some of the staff still working there that I had known from years ago.
What would you say to someone who may be thinking about donating to YES? Why should they?
For people who might be on the fence about donating, I can only say it is a terrific organization that does the work others don’t! But they need the donations to continue doing this. Please think about YES when considering your donations year-round!
Click Here to learn more about how you can become a donor to Youth Emergency Services (YES).
*Donations are tax deductible