Getting to Know...
Candice Brown, Maternity Group Home Coordinator
Candice has a strong background working with youth and came to YES late last year as our Maternity Group Home (MGH) Coordinator. Because she had experience working with YES in previous positions, she was excited to join the YES family and sees a bright future of growth and inclusion ahead.
What did you know about YES before working here and what have you learned since you joined the team that surprises you?
I’ve always known about YES but didn’t start making referrals and having clients receive services there until 2007. That year, YES accepted one of my students who was homeless. I was able to transport the student to the Emergency Shelter and was grateful he was off the streets. Since being employed with YES, I’ve learned there are several programs for youth -- Street Outreach, Transitional Living, Rapid Rehousing and the Maternity Group Home (MGH).
What brought/led you to YES?
I was looking for meaningful employment working with youth and saw an open position with YES. I was very excited to apply because working with the youth population is hard when the need for housing is present.
How long have you been with YES?
I’ve been with YES for almost 3 months. I started December 7.
What is your professional/educational background?
I have my Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science from Bellevue University and my Associates degree in Human Services and Chemical Dependency from Metro Community College.
Where do you see your opportunity to make the greatest impact/difference in your role with YES?
The greatest impact I see myself making at YES is with the youth and mothers at the MGH. Assisting youth and mothers with their journey to become self-sufficient and obtain goals is very rewarding.
You joined the YES team during COVID-19. How has it impacted your work/role/goals?
COVID-19 has impacted me being able to meet co-workers and visit different departments. Technology has made communicating and meeting people much easier, but there's still something special about in-person engagement. Some of the changes at MGH due to COVID are wearing face masks while in shared areas and receiving overnight passes.
What do you do for fun? Hobbies? Interests?
I’m pretty boring and like to spend time with my family indoors (even before COVID). We enjoy watching movies, cooking, taking pictures and a lot of horse playing with kids.
What makes you most excited about working at YES? What kind of impact do you see the organization continuing to make?
I believe I’ve come to YES at the perfect time. During this pivotal time in our country, YES has been working intentionally with diversity and inclusion. YES is also supporting and learning more about the LGBTQ+ community and ways to make all youth feel like they belong and are welcomed. The organization will make a big impact in the metropolitan area continuing on this path. Hopefully, we will prompt other agencies and organizations to do the same.
