By day, Mia Harris helps protect and encourage young people at the Douglas County Youth Center. Beyond the walls of the facility, she continues that mission as a children’s author.

Harris is a juvenile detention officer, helping maintain the internal and external security of the facility. She monitors surveillance equipment, conducts safety inspections and works with supervisors, County employees, law enforcement and others who serve youth.

Her role also extends beyond safety and security.

“One of the most important parts of my job is providing positive reinforcement when appropriate and serving as a positive role model for the youth in our care,” Harris said.

Harris became a children’s author in 2019. She drew inspiration for her first book, “Black Girl Magic,” from her three daughters and their childhood experiences.

“I noticed that sometimes girls can be mean to one another because of differences in skin tone or hair texture,” Harris said. “I wanted to create a book that encouraged little girls to love and accept themselves and one another and understand that we can all look beautifully different.”

Harris has written five children’s books. Her stories explore self-love, identity, foster families, body boundaries, personal safety, emotions, culture and hair-texture awareness.

She uses approachable, age-appropriate storytelling to help families discuss topics that can sometimes feel difficult.

“I hope children learn to love and accept themselves and others,” Harris said. “I want them to understand that being different is beautiful, that their feelings matter, and that they have the right to boundaries and personal safety.”

Her work at DCYC has helped shape the stories she chooses to tell. Through her interactions with young people, Harris has listened to their experiences and witnessed the hardships some have faced. Those moments inspire her to focus on the positive and nurturing side of childhood.

“When I work with the youth, I often see pieces of their stories reflected in the messages of my books,” Harris said. “My work at DCYC reminds me how important it is for children to feel heard, valued, understood, and encouraged.”

For Harris, writing offers an opportunity to turn her experiences and observations into meaningful lessons for children. It also represents a larger calling.

“I truly feel that becoming an author is part of my purpose,” Harris said. “Through my books, I am creating conversations, inspiring children, sharing my journey, and opening doors.”

She hopes her journey encourages others to pursue their own goals, even if they do not have every step planned.

“You can start where you are and still walk boldly in your purpose,” Harris said. “My hope is that my journey inspires someone else to recognize their own purpose and have the courage to pursue it.”

Harris’ books are available through Amazon and at the North Omaha Visitor Center. Readers can follow her author journey on Facebook at Pages with Purpose.

For 70 years, the Douglas County Historical Society (DCHS) has worked to preserve and share the stories that have shaped Omaha and Douglas County.

Founded in 1956 by a small group of community volunteers, the organization was originally known as the Greater Omaha Historical Society. The group held its first meeting at the Joslyn Art Museum, where Dr. John Christlieb was elected as the society’s first president. Members adopted a constitution and set annual dues at $1. Membership was open to anyone with an interest in local history.

Seven decades later, DCHS continues that tradition with a mission to “preserve and enliven historical insight in Douglas County, Nebraska.” The organization accomplishes this by collecting and preserving documents and artifacts, offering educational programs and exhibits, hosting community events, and operating the General Crook House Museum.

A central part of that work is the DCHS Archive Center, which houses a collection documenting the history of Douglas County. The archive was formally established in 1982 by community members who had long been interested in collecting and preserving local history.

Before the Archive Center had a permanent home, the growing collection was stored in various locations throughout Omaha—including, at one point, the attic of Joslyn Castle.

In 1982, the collection moved to its current location at Fort Omaha. The Archive Center occupies a former officer’s lodging building that was originally designed as a duplex. Today, the library spans both sides of the building, with several of the original dividing walls removed to create space for the collection.

The Archive Center’s role expanded in 1996, when it became an official repository for Douglas County government records. When county offices dispose of records or no longer need original documents, those materials are brought to the Archive Center for preservation.

Among the collection’s notable holdings are original Douglas County marriage licenses dating to 1856, providing a direct connection to the county’s earliest history. As DCHS celebrates its 70th anniversary, the organization is looking ahead to new opportunities to connect with the community and Douglas County employees while continuing to share the stories preserved in its archives.

Readers are encouraged to share personal stories, ask questions or suggest topics they would like to learn more about. After seven decades of preserving the past, the Douglas County Historical Society is continuing its work to ensure the County’s history remains accessible for generations to come.

Living with persistent back, neck, or joint pain can make everyday routines feel like a chore. Whether you are dealing with a lingering injury, managing daily stiffness, or working through aches, you don't have to navigate it alone—or pay out of pocket for relief.

September is National Pain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to proactive pain management and improving your quality of life. To help you move and feel better, we want to remind all eligible employees about Sword Thrive, our free digital physical therapy benefit.

What is Sword Thrive?

Sword Thrive delivers clinically proven, at-home physical therapy for joint and muscle pain right through your smartphone. When you enroll, you’ll be paired with a dedicated physical therapist who builds a care plan tailored to your needs. Using motion-tracking technology in the Sword Health app, you'll receive real-time feedback on your form as you complete exercises—helping you reduce pain safely on your own schedule.

By enrolling in Sword Thrive, you’ll receive:

• Personalized Care Plans: Designed and overseen by a licensed physical therapist.

• Quick, Guided Sessions: Complete 10-minute AI-guided exercise sessions wherever and whenever it works for you.

• Ongoing One-on-One Support: Stay motivated with continuous check-ins, health coaching, and expert guidance.

• In-App Educational Resources: Access a full library of clinical resources to keep you informed and healthy.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit the Sword Thrive website today to learn more or sign up. This benefit is available to employees and their dependents who are enrolled in the County’s health care plan. 

Don't let daily pain hold you back—acknowledge National Pain Awareness Month by prioritizing your health with this zero-cost benefit!

Flu Shot Clinic - Registration Open!

• The Flu Shot Clinic will be available in September for Douglas County employees. 

• Dates and locations:

  • • Wed. Sept. 23:  Noon-1 p.m., Douglas Room at the Fitzgerald Building

    • Wed. Sept. 30:   8-10 a.m., Civic Center, Room 702

    • Wed. Sept. 30:   Noon-2 p.m., Goodwill Building

• Please sign up by completing the registration form here. 

• Registration forms must be completed by 5 p.m. Sept. 28. 

YMCA Membership Fees - Payroll Deduction

• Employees may elect to pay YMCA membership fees through payroll deductions on the second check of each month. 

• Membership Benefits: 

  • • Group Fitness & Virtual Classes

    • Free Childcare when using the U

    • 2 Free sessions with a Wellness Coach

    • Access to all 12 metro Omaha locations

    • Reduced rates on sports, swim lessons, camp & more

• Check out the Benefit Guide for more information.  

Congratulations!

RETIREMENTS

• Kevin Powell - Assessor/Register of Deeds

• Gary Baker - Clerk of the District Court

• Clifford Whitley - Corrections

• Malinda Farhart - Sheriff

PROMOTIONS

• Arnold Ostwald - Clerk of the District Court

• Darsey Moline - Community Mental Health Center

• Edward Hodges - Community Mental Health Center

• Santos Saenz Argueta - Corrections

• Brian Feddeler - Corrections

• Brandon Grant - Health Center

• Kelly McCauley - Health Department

• Meghan Faust - Treasurer