PAF Safety Day Coordinator Spotlight: Sherrie Nestor

Photo of Sherrie Nestor.

In the sprawling landscapes of rural America, where agriculture isn’t just a livelihood but a way of life, safety isn’t just a concern—it’s paramount. Sherrie Nestor, a Senior Scale Operator for Cargill, understands this truth all too well. For over two decades, she has been a driving force in ensuring the safety of her community through her unwavering commitment to the Progressive Agriculture Foundation’s (PAF) Safety Day programs. Because of her dedication, Nestor received the Bernard Geschke Volunteer Service Award in 2022.  

Sherrie’s journey with PAF began in 1995 when Nancy Meyers, also from Cargill, introduced her to the program. In 1999, Sherrie started her journey as a volunteer coordinator. Since then, she has become a stalwart advocate, completing over 34 Safety Day programs and volunteering for many more. But for Sherrie, it’s not about the numbers—it’s about the impact.  

“I want children and adults to be safe in rural areas,” Sherrie emphasizes. Her dedication stems from a profoundly personal tragedy—her grandfather’s fatal tractor accident. This loss ignited her mission to prevent similar tragedies from befalling others, especially her own grandchildren who work in various rural tasks. 

To Sherrie, Safety Day isn’t just an event—it’s a lifeline for her community. “The business community gives it a platform to meet some of their safety programs and outreach,” she explains. “The schools look forward to the learning experience and life-saving information.”   

Partnering with PAF is essential for Sherrie and her organization. “It supplies the information, insurance, and supplies that, as a rural farm community, we could not find the funds for,” she acknowledges. Cargill is currently a four-star sponsor of the Progressive Agriculture Foundation.       

As a 30-year Cargill employee, Sherrie values the connection Cargill has with the Progressive Agriculture Foundation because it helps the corporation with important community and safety outreach. The schools participating in the program also value the educational experience and the life-saving information presented to the youth. 

Many tangible impacts have been made in the community because of Sherrie’s Safety Day, including a saved life. After previously participating in an electric safety demonstration, the person knew not to exit the tractor but stayed inside while waiting for help after hitting an electric pole. Additionally, children have learned more about safe stopping distances and semi-truck safety and have been made more aware of grain safety. “This program has made them more aware of the dangers,” Sherrie affirms.    

Sherrie’s dedication to rural safety is not just admirable—it’s indispensable. Her unwavering commitment to educating and safeguarding her community exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism at its finest.    

To others who are considering hosting a Safety Day, Sherrie encourages you to seriously consider partnering with PAF, “it’s a good, solid program and beneficial to the youth and communities.”   

As we celebrate Sherrie Nestor’s invaluable contributions, let us also reflect on the profound difference one individual can make in promoting safety and well-being within their community.