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Meet Dayna Scott
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By Bette Erickson
Editor’s Note: Each month Our Broomfield Magazine profiles different members of the community. The goal of Our People: Meet “insert name” is to introduce Broomfield change-makers and highlight their contributions.
About Dayna
Dayna and her husband, Ken, have lived in Broomfield for 15 years with their dog, Roxy.
She has been the Executive Director of Broomfield Fellowship In Serving Humanity (FISH) for nearly 10 years. FISH is Broomfield’s food and family resource center serving low-income Broomfield neighbors in need. The nonprofit-which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year--strives to prevent hunger and homelessness in our community.
When not working, Dayna can be found hiking, biking, reading, skiing, dancing, or cooking.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: The people – staff, volunteers, participants, and donors. They give me hope for the future.
Q: Tell us a little about your career path.
A: My career path was more like a switchback on a mountainside. I was a debater in both high school and college, and on track to become a lawyer. But I took a year off after I graduated and participated in the Americorps VISTA program. When my VISTA term was done, I became the Director at a nonprofit in Vermont. I did that for twenty years and helped start a school-based mentoring program, a substance abuse counseling program, and other programs. I moved to Colorado in 2009 and worked for the Longmont Community Justice Partnership, and then Project VOYCE, before finding FISH. I have spent most of my life in the nonprofit sector and find it challenging and rewarding.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant and park in Broomfield?
A: A long-time favorite restaurant is Burns Pub. They have the best fish and chips and make a mean Old Fashioned. As for parks, I really couldn't choose – the open space is one of the reasons we moved here.
Q: Who is the most interesting person, past or present, you’ve met in our community?
A: As an extrovert, I find most people I meet interesting. I am inspired by all the female leaders in our community. Our many FISH volunteers are also amazing.
Q: What do you find most satisfying about FISH?
A: I like the immediacy of our work with neighbors in need. People come to us on their worst days, often in crisis, and leave smiling, feeling more hopeful, and with a shopping cart full of food.
Q: What is something you find unique about Broomfield?
A: We fell in love with the views from Lac Amora and the nearby trails. But what makes Broomfield unique is the strong sense of community.
Q. What advice would you give people living in or relocating to Broomfield?
A: Volunteer! Pick a charity and donate your time and talents. I think this is the best way to get to know Broomfield.
Q: Who or what inspires you to be a better person?
A: During her lifetime, my mom struggled in so many ways. Seeing her persevere -- despite obstacles -- inspired me to be of service to those who have less power and privilege.
Bette Erickson writes about people, places, and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.
