From Care to Coach: Tyeisha’s Story Shows the Power of Connection

What if the person who once needed support became the one offering it?

That’s exactly what happened to Tyeisha Thompson. As a young person navigating challenges as she transitioned to adulthood, she felt alone—like no one could understand her story. Today, she’s a CYI Coach (Connected Youth Initiative) in Lancaster County, helping other young people find their path forward.

A Safe Space Changed Everything

When Tyeisha first met her CYI Coach at her school counselor’s office, she was hesitant. Meeting new people was scary, especially someone who would ask about her life. But her CYI Coach created something she’d been missing: a safe space where she could share her story without judgment.

“My coach made me feel welcomed and that I wasn’t alone in my experience,” Tyeisha remembers. “Everyone’s story is different, but it felt special to finally connect with someone who had a similar experience.” That connection became a turning point.

Together, they worked on practical goals—completing the FAFSA, applying for scholarships, planning for college. But the impact went deeper. With her CYI Coach’s support, Tyeisha discovered opportunities she never knew existed, like joining the NCFF Advisory Board (whose members are young leaders that advocate for changes in Nebraska’s child welfare system) and completing a national LEAP (Learn and Earn to Achieve Potential) fellowship. More importantly, she gained the confidence to pursue them.

You’re in the Driver’s Seat

What makes coaching different? You’re in control. You decide what goals matter, how often you want to meet, and what support looks like for you. Your CYI Coach is there to listen, guide, and help you access resources—not to tell you what to do.

Coaching though Nebraska Children’s Connected Youth Initiative is available in every Nebraska county, and you can connect with your CYI Coach as much—or as little—as you need until your 26th birthday.

A Full Circle Moment

Now as a CYI Coach herself, Tyeisha knows firsthand what young people need: someone who listens without judgment, believes in their potential, and walks alongside them as they figure things out.

“Drawing on my own experience, I want to help guide them, build their confidence, and support them in discovering and reaching their full potential,” Tyeisha says.

“Being a coach feels like a true full circle moment for me, and I genuinely feel like I am exactly where I am meant to be,” she says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to support others as they grow and to watch them apply the life skills we work through to their own lives with confidence and purpose.”

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re thinking about working with a CYI Coach but aren’t sure, Tyeisha says: “It’s okay to feel unsure and that you don’t have to have everything figured out to start. A CYI Coach is there to support you, listen without judgment, and help you navigate whatever you’re going through at your own pace. Coaching is a safe space where you can talk honestly, set goals that matter to you, and build skills that help you feel more confident in your life and decisions. You’re always in control of the process, and your coach is there to walk alongside you, not tell you what to do.”

Ready to connect? Reach out to the Central Navigator in your area to see if you qualify and get started. Your CYI Coach is ready to partner with you—on your terms, at your pace. Because sometimes, the best way forward is with someone walking alongside you.

To learn more about Nebraska Children’s Connected Youth Initiative, visit NEConnectedYouth.org.