Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha, NE – 2018 (July – December)

As businesspeople, while working hard towards our goals, we also know that we play an important part in making our community a better place. We are invested in those efforts because it allows us to build our businesses as well as raise our families, cultivate friendships, and lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Here in the greater Omaha metropolitan area, you’ll find many people working together to care for one another, to give a hand up to those in need for the greater good, to protect our environment, and to make our city the best place to live and work it can possibly be. In a community that understands the importance of giving back and places a lot of value in it, you’ll also find it to be a big part of corporate culture here in small and large businesses alike. Supporting our local non-profit organizations is something that we can all do to give back individually – and to truly make a difference collectively.

An excellent example of the power of philanthropy at the local level just happened a couple months ago. For the sixth year, the Omaha Metro community came together for Omaha Gives! on May 23 and showed their support in a big way. With over 50,000 donations to almost a thousand different non-profit organizations, the total raised came in at $7.4 million. Those funds are going to change lives for those here in our community, and is a powerful statement of what can be accomplished when we all come together for the greater good. But it doesn’t stop there. While not diminishing the fact that these funds are greatly appreciated and put to good use throughout the year, it’s important to be mindful that monetary donations aren’t the only way you can give back. There are a variety of ways to contribute to the valuable work that our non-profits are doing day in and day out, all year long. While funds will often be allocated to certain areas that are determined to be of importance, there are other needs that will arise throughout the year. This may be a donation of items or hosting a donation drive, volunteering, sponsorships, participating in special events, helping to raise awareness, and so on.

As individuals, whether you offer your time, talents, or prefer to donate money or items to the cause, there’s always a need that can be met with whatever you have to give. Businesses also have the opportunity to encourage their employees to get involved, which unites everyone together for a worthy cause. Many companies incentivize employees to volunteer, participate in fundraising and awareness events, or volunteer together as a group; there are plenty of ways to get involved that can be tailored to fit the needs and goals of your organization. Likewise, as we always encourage consumers to be conscious of their purchasing decisions, staying informed and supporting the businesses that make an effort to support non-profits in the community is something we can all do. Leveraging resources to further reinforce those actions has a ripple effect, as does setting an example, spreading your passion for a cause, and getting others involved.

Our local non-profits are the source of initiatives that are focused solely on helping to make an impact on the lives of those who live in our community—to make our tiny part of the world a better place for all. Oftentimes their reach extends beyond that to make an impact at the state, national, and/or global level. These organizations also create jobs in our community, allowing many people to fulfill their greater purpose by doing what they love while touching lives and truly making a difference.

At Strictly Business, the focus of our work has always been supporting the growth and prosperity of our local business community. That said, we feel strongly about supporting our local non-profit organizations too. The two really do go hand-in-hand. By shining a light on all of the different ones here in our community, it is our hope that we are encouraging our audience to get involved with the cause(s) they are passionate about supporting. So without further ado, we’ve highlighted some of our local non-profit organizations so that you have the opportunity to learn more about them and take action!

We have compiled a list of excellent non-profits, all of which need and welcome your support, and encourage you to get involved with these organizations!

(Click on a thumbnail below to jump to an organization or continue scrolling to read about each)

Angels Among Us provides financial assistance to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families are provided with $500 a month for 18 months to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose.

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life as they know it comes to an abrupt halt. Unfortunately, their monthly expenses do not. Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 350 families with $1.5 million in support.

Will you join us as we fight to keep families stable? Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. There is strength in numbers. There is also hope, help, and monetary relief.

For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit our website at www.myangelsamongus.org.

We are connectors and coordinators.

We connect providers to resources and funding that they may not be able to access on their own. We connect donors to good work that best supports their giving goals. We offer streamlined coordination and communication with school districts, which saves everyone time, money, and stress.

We are cheerleaders.

We know that out of school time providers are doing what they do best – providing great programs and activities for our community’s youth. We are here to cheer them on, to advocate on their behalf to donors, the school district, and lawmakers, and to provide professional development, feedback, and assessment tools.

We are building a community-wide system.

We are the entity that brings the right people to the table and guides the growth and development of the out of school time community.

For more information, go to www.collectiveforyouth.org or call (402) 932-2025.

CEDARS (www.cedarskids.org) has been a vital part of the community for over 70 years. What started as a grassroots effort to help kids in crisis has grown into a dynamic and dedicated team of over 200 professionals serving 2,750 kids and families each year.

For those children and youth who are unable to live at home, CEDARS provides an array of safe places to stay that offer structure and support while working to facilitate a successful transition to a more permanent living situation.

For families in need of resources, support and education, CEDARS work focuses on maintaining healthy connections and helping families remain together.

For youth who are at risk for, or who have committed law violations, CEDARS provides positive development programs to prevent subsequent law violations and prepare them to live successfully in the community.

Today, CEDARS will serve nearly 1,000 children and youth.

To learn more call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit www.cedarskids.org.

For over 18 years, Domesti-PUPS (www.domesti-pups.org) has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. Our service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as responding to a seizure or alerting to a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partners.

“Transforming Lives * Strengthening Community”

Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO) (www.alomaha.org) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization whose members identify, develop, implement, and fund ongoing philanthropic programs to serve specific needs of local children and adults in the Greater Omaha area. Signature programs include: Operation School Bell® offering school children in need the opportunity to shop for new school clothes; Operation Recovery providing support to women recovering from chemical addiction; Assault Survivor Kits® supplying clothing and hygiene items to assault survivors; Operation Teen Parent encouraging teen parents to complete their educations and read to their children; Operation Bear Hug furnishing stuffed bears to children in crisis situations; Project Literacy providing books for children and adults; and ACT/PSAT Review Sessions.

Assistance League of Omaha receives no federal, state or city funding. Donations and grants are needed. Serving Omaha since 1974, ALO returns 100% of proceeds after expenses to the community. Call (402) 342-4288 or visit www.alomaha.org for more information.

Cross Training Center (www.crosstc.com) empowers and equips undereducated and disadvantaged youth and adults through character development, vocational training, and work experience. Our students have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, mental health disorders, human trafficking, challenging circumstances and generational poverty. They gain skills, knowledge and hands-on work experience at our center, where we serve the public through various operations including:

Electronics Recycling
Computer and Electronics Retail Store
Computer Refurbishing and Repair
Automotive Maintenance and Repair Services
Banquet Facility and Food Services

Cross Training Center’s mission is to provide Solutions to Poverty through Work.

Contact Brenda Banks at (402) 590-2100, via email at brenda@crosstc.com, or visit www.crosstc.com for more information.

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association (www.heart.org/omaha) is devoted to saving people from two of our nation’s top killers, heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5). Powered by millions of volunteers nationwide, the Association’s goal is to improve the cardiovascular health of Americans by 20% by 2020, while reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke by 20%. Currently, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease and stroke. Through events right here in Omaha like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Expo and Heart Ball, that startling statistic can change.

For more information, visit www.heart.org/omaha.

The Metro Area Youth Foundation (MAYF) (SummerBashforCCC.org) was formed in 2006 by a group of Omaha area Optimist Club members who wanted to do more for families and children experiencing cancer. This all-volunteer group recognized that many organizations have been formed to help fight cancer, but there were not many resources available to the families who were in the middle of the fight. The goal is to allow the families to focus on the children, not the money they owe by providing a short-term financial bridge. Many of these families were already struggling financially; a cancer diagnosis can often mean that only one parent can continue to work, adding to the burden. MAYF has been able to provide over 500 families a chance to keep the water and power on, rent to stay in their apartment, a mortgage payment to keep their home and a chance to keep life as stable and normal as possible. For more information about how you can get involved or donate to MAYF’s Childhood Cancer Campaign, visit SummerBashforCCC.org or please call (402) 740-5158 or email SummerBash@cox.net.

Are you looking to start your own business or grow an existing business? Did you know there’s a free service dedicated to helping people just like you?

For over 50 years, SCORE (omaha.score.org) has been America’s premier source of free business mentoring and education. In Omaha, we have over 70 knowledgeable counselors who can help you at every stage of your business – from starting up and growing to developing an exit plan.

SCORE is ready to help you:

FREE One-on-One Confidential Counseling – discuss your business idea or challenges with one of our certified counselors.
FREE Mentoring – receive ongoing support to help you stay focused and on course.
Valuable Education – keep your business skills sharp for a fraction of the cost of other business seminars and workshops.

Take the next step and contact SCORE today!

Online: omaha.score.org

Email: score@scoreomaha.org

Phone: (402) 221-3606

In-person: 10675 Bedford Ave., Suite 100 or Commerce Village, 950 S. Mason

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands’ (www.bbbsomaha.org) mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.

A Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring relationship is designed to provide youth with a sense of safety and security, emotional support, social skill promotion, and help them with academic, technical, and other skills. Children with a Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple stay in school, have improved relationships with family and peers, and avoid risky behaviors. A mentor helps bring out a child’s full potential. A Big is not only a mentor but a friend.

To learn more about how to become a Big, or to make a donation or find other ways to get involved, go to www.bbbsomaha.org or follow us on social media.

Community Health Charities of Nebraska (CHC-NE) (www.chcne.org) is a fundraising family of 22 Nebraska-based affiliates of nationally recognized health charities dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by a chronic health condition, disability or end-of-life issue. CHC-NE raises vital funds through workplace giving campaigns, corporate matching funds, individual gifts and foundation contributions to benefit these health charities. Dollars raised each year help our charities provide support for those with chronic health conditions as well as family members, friends, and co-workers affected by chronic illness. Thank you for giving the gift of hope through your support.

In Omaha, we are proud to partner with United Way of the Midlands. In 2019, look for us as Combined Health Agencies Drive.

Omaha Office: 212 S. 74th St., Suite 205 | (402) 614-8500

www.chcne.org | www.facebook.com/CHCNebraska

Child Saving Institute (CSI; childsaving.org) focuses on the prevention, intervention, and healing of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. Since its beginning more than 126 years ago, Child Saving Institute’s primary focus has always been children’s safety and well-being. As an innovative leader in children’s services, our programs include an emergency shelter for youth whose families are in crisis, quality early childhood education, consultation services for low-income child care centers, foster care, therapy, pregnancy counseling, in-home services for struggling families, pediatric social services in low income medical clinics, independent living skills education for youth aging out of the foster care system, free parenting workshops, and older child adoption. The agency also operates the Triage Center at Project Harmony, providing a comfortable environment, food, and fresh clothing to children who have been abruptly removed from their homes in crisis.

CSI’s programming is diverse, but so are the needs of today’s children and youth. With your support and the support of others like you, CSI serves more than 2,800 kids and families each year, improving the lives of children in our community — and helping them discover the joy of childhood that every child should experience.

For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, visit childsaving.org, or call (402) 553-6000.

Adult & Teen Challenge of the Midlands (www.tcmid.org) exists to be a catalyst for 180-degree life change in the addict. We offer residential, 12-month faith-based programs for men and women 18 and older. This program is designed to assist individuals in gaining freedom from drugs and alcohol and destructive behaviors that accompany addiction. During the program, we also support the spouses and families of those enrolled through our family ministry. Additionally, we have a substance prevention program geared toward adolescents called “Know the Truth.” We facilitate presentations in junior high and high schools and share our real-life stories of addiction and the effect it had on our lives. Our goal is to change perceptions and in turn, behavior. By partnering with Adult & Teen Challenge of the Midlands and Know the Truth you can change lives! Visit us at www.tcmid.org or call (402) 551-2322.

Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS) (www.fhasinc.org) helps families improve their housing, finances, and quality of life. FHAS offers a comprehensive menu of cohesive services to address poverty and provide tools for success. FHAS prevents homelessness, educates homeowners, provides foreclosure prevention options, develops financially-wise consumers (including youth transitioning out of foster care), offers affordable mortgage lending options, eliminates housing discrimination, and reduces poverty through access to tax credits.

FHAS serves about 10,000 individuals and families annually. Families learn how to budget, save, avoid eviction or foreclosure; pursue homeownership, post-secondary education or microbusiness enterprise; exercise their fair housing rights and access income tax credits. We are celebrating our 50th anniversary this year, please stay tuned for event Save the Dates to celebrate with us.

For more information about Family Housing Advisory Services, Inc., please visit www.fhasinc.org or call (402) 934-7921.

Nebraska Recycling Council (www.nrcne.org) is a statewide, member-based, nonprofit supporting collaboration between communities, businesses, solid waste and recycling industries to improve waste diversion systems. Our mission is to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of resource recovery in Nebraska.

Recycling Information: Nebraska Online Recycling Guide, Phone Assistance

Education & Training: Webinars, Green Team Training, Networking Events

Services: Waste Assessments, Zero Waste Events, Zero Waste Community Consultation, Hub & Spoke Consultation

Grants: Recycling Equipment Grants

Publications: Best Management Practices, E-Newsletters, Case Studies

Annual Awards Luncheon: National Speaker, Workshops, Business & Community Environmental Awards

Visit www.nrcne.org or call (402) 436-2384 to learn more.

The BLUEBARN Theatre (bluebarn.org) is dedicated to theatre’s most important tradition: to provoke thought, emotion, action, and change. Bringing artistically significant scripts and professional production values to area audiences since 1989, BLUEBARN has established itself as Omaha’s professional regional contemporary theatre company. Each year BLUEBARN produces five to six contemporary plays in a season that runs from September through June. The repertoire is diverse in theme and style, ranging from works by some of America’s most renowned modern playwrights to regional premieres of work produced on the coasts, to new works by writers whose voices deserve to be heard. Now enlarging its artistic boundaries in its innovative new performance space, BLUEBARN looks forward to a future of theatre that will challenge both theatre artists and patrons. The BLUEBARN is located at 1106 S. 10th Street in downtown Omaha. Visit bluebarn.org for more information.

Grief’s Journey (formerly Ted E. Bear Hollow) (www.griefsjourney.org) exists so that no one has to walk their grief journey alone.

Since 2001, the agency has provided a free and welcoming safe place for grieving children, teens, and adults to offer each other hope and support. Research indicates that unresolved grief correlates to issues such as poor school and work performance and emotional and behavioral concerns, whereas healthy coping leads to long-term successes for children, families, and communities. Carefully measured outcomes indicate that the programs of Grief’s Journey effectively move participants to health and resilience. As the region’s cornerstone for grief support, Grief’s Journey provides free peer support groups, family days, and camps as well as professional training, education, and consultation throughout Nebraska and Iowa.

The agency relies on charitable contributions, special event income, and volunteerism to support its free programs. Together, hope grows.

For more information about Grief’s Journey, please visit www.griefsjourney.org or call (402) 502-2773.

Why BBB Matters Today

The Better Business Bureau (BBB; www.bbb.org) has been assisting consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing trust in the marketplace. In 2017, BBB provided nearly 225 million instances of service to businesses, charities and the general public. BBB has Business Profiles on more than 4.7 million businesses and Charity Reports on over 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. Today, BBB serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is supported by approximately 10,000 Accredited Businesses that have voluntarily committed to adhere to BBB’s Standards of Trust.

BBB offers services to both businesses and consumers by creating a community of trustworthy businesses through accreditation, setting standards for trust, encouraging and supporting ethical business practices, celebrating community role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.

BBB does not compare businesses to each other, but rather evaluates them against its standards – and BBB’s standards clearly speak to the character and competence of an organization.

Help save lives. Donate blood.

“I’ve never been asked.” That’s the number one reason why people don’t donate blood. Today, the Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB.org) is asking you to donate blood to help save lives. Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. The rarest blood type is the one that’s not available when a patient is in need. That need is constant. Nebraska Community Blood Bank has been connecting people who need life-saving blood with generous volunteer donors for 50 years. We provide life-saving blood to healthcare facilities throughout southeast Nebraska. Be part of our life-saving mission by becoming a blood donor with Nebraska Community Blood Bank today.

Visit NCBB.org to learn more about hosting a blood drive or to sign up to donate blood at a donor center or blood drive near you. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter (@NCBBOmaha).

Dreamweaver Foundation (dreamweaver.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fulfilling lifelong dreams for terminally ill seniors in need. We strive to enrich the quality of life and are committed to honoring our most cherished generation in their final days. Making the impossible dream, possible. We serve seniors who are at or below the federal poverty guidelines in the Greater Omaha Area, Lincoln, eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. The granting of a Dream is a simple act, and yet the outcomes are profound. Dreams give the gift of hope.

Dreamweaver Foundation is celebrating five years of making dreams come true for terminally ill seniors by hosting our first Boots & Buckets fundraising event, presented by Pinnacle Bank. The casual event will be held Thursday, September 20, 2018 at A View on State in Omaha.

For more information about our event or Dreamweaver, visit our website at dreamweaver.org or email us at info@dreamweaver.org.

At the Heartland Hope Mission South Omaha (HeartlandHopeMission.org) and Millard food pantries, working poor families choose a week’s supply of nutritious groceries including milk, frozen meat, and fresh produce to prepare well-balanced meals at home. But, we are more than a pantry. Clients also receive clothing, hygiene items, diapers, and access to a Client Service Specialist, who assists with SNAP (food stamp) applications and navigational services. Our Jobs Paths Program provides access to current job postings and on-site interviews with employers. Clients can also participate in financial classes, nutrition education, and a community garden. Our goals are to provide programming and wraparound services to prevent families from becoming homeless and to help people achieve or rebuild self-sufficiency.

Pantry Hours:

South Omaha (2021 U Street): Tuesdays 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Thursdays 1:30-4:00 p.m. | Saturdays 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Millard Pantry (5321 S. 139th Plaza): 2nd Saturdays 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Last Wednesday 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Find out more: HeartlandHopeMission.org | (402) 733-1904

The Omaha Home for Boys (OmahaHomeForBoys.org) has served as a pillar of hope for at-risk youth across the state for nearly a century. The lives of more than 300 young men and women are changed and saved every year through the Home’s residential, transitional living and independent living programs. Omaha Home for Boys empowers young adults with the confidence and skills needed to transition from a state of crisis to those of safety and growth.

The youth who seek the guidance of Omaha Home for Boys come from a myriad of troubled backgrounds, but thanks to supporters like you, they find brighter futures through the Home. For more information about Omaha Home for Boys or to invest in the futures of the youth served, please visit our website at OmahaHomeForBoys.org.

Goodwill Industries, Inc. (www.goodwillomaha.org), Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, has been a leader in helping people fulfill their dreams through work since 1933. We train and employ people with disabilities and others who may be at a competitive disadvantage in the job market, such as at-risk youth.

Many people know Goodwill as a place to donate used clothing or household items. However, did you know that Goodwill is also a place where thousands of formerly unemployed or underemployed individuals have been given the opportunity to earn a living and the chance to succeed in life?

Goodwill offers a variety of employment programs and job opportunities for individuals with barriers to self-sufficiency. These programs include AbilityOne, Business Solutions, Community Service, Employment Ready, Work Experience, and YouthBuild Omaha.

For more information about Goodwill’s mission programs call (402) 341-4609, email info@goodwillomaha.org, or visit www.goodwillomaha.org.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise. JDRF (Jdrf.org/Omaha) is the leading global organization funding T1D research. We’re accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering or fundraising.

Events:

JDRF One Walk – 8/25/2018
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch JDRF Event – 10/14/2018
JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – 11/11/2018
JDRF Promise Gala – 2/23/2019
Research Updates/Networking – Throughout the year

Programs:

Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & new therapies.
JDRF Youth Making an Impact – School education & fundraising opportunities.
Outreach – Resources for individuals & families.
Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community.
Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.
YLC – Young professionals raising awareness & funds for T1D.

Learn more at Jdrf.org/Omaha or (402) 397-2873.

Founded in 1989, Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy’s (www.HETRA.org) mission is to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children of all ability levels through equine assisted activities. Therapeutic Riding, Therapy Services, Carriage Driving, Life Skills, Veterans, and Equine Facilitated Learning programs are at the heart of HETRA’s services. The organization employs Occupational, Mental Health, and Physical Therapists, 16 PATH Int’l Certified Riding Instructors, and is the only Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Accredited (PATH) facility in Nebraska. Today, as a result of 28 years of dedication and commitment, HETRA serves over 125 participants weekly with the help of over 200 dedicated volunteers who donate over 18,000 hours annually. HETRA offers year-round programming, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, a herd of over 20 horses, and is situated on 25 beautiful acres in Gretna, NE. Learn more at www.HETRA.org.

Youth Emergency Services (YES; www.yesomaha.org) is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help homeless and nearly homeless in our community. Last year, YES provided support and services to a record number of 3,376 youth in the Omaha metro area. Many of these youth have been physically, emotionally or sexually abused, making it unsafe for them to return home. Without YES, these vulnerable young people cannot succeed independently.

YES offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes a Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program and Maternity Home. Throughout these programs, we offer case management, job readiness classes, group activities, support for the LGBTQ+ community, and specialized services for trafficked victims. To ensure youth are successful once they leave our care, youth in YES› programs are required to set short and long term goals, be enrolled in school, have a job, or both; and do community service. For more information about YES’ programs, please visit www.yesomaha.org.

The Nebraska Wildlife Federation (NEWF; nebraskawildlife.org) is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of Nebraska’s wildlife and habitat. We promote this through clean energy, conservation farming, growing certified wildlife habitats, and education. NEWF co-authored the Husker Power Plan (with the help of committee members from Nebraska conservation groups), which we hope the three major utilities in Nebraska will use as a template to increase their use of renewable energy and lowering their carbon footprint. This will not only benefit wildlife and habitat but humans as well. Please go to huskerpowerplan.org for further reference. NEWF has also been very busy developing and implementing monarch/pollinator gardens throughout the Lincoln area, mainly around schools, recreation areas, and churches. As we all know, humans cannot survive without pollinators. NEWF encourages everyone to create their own wildlife habitat in their backyard. Or on their acreage. Or somewhere. You can have your wildlife habitat certified by the National Wildlife Federation, in conjunction with NEWF. Please go to our website for additional information: nebraskawildlife.org.

We can always use assistance to amplify our message and efforts. Feel free to contact us at (402) 477-1008 or nebraskawildlife@windstream.net.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.

Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors, and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 250 communities.

In the last five years, 39,142 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1993, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $292 million in Nebraska’s people and places.

For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

Established in 1972, Santa Monica (www.santamonicahouse.org) has been providing long-term residential services to thousands of chemically-dependent women, partnering with them on their journey to recovery. The program relies on the disciplines of the twelve step program of Alcoholics Anonymous® while incorporating mental health and trauma treatment along with life skills. Santa Monica provides food, shelter, rehabilitative counseling, job acquisition guidance, and re-socialization training. Santa Monica provides a Halfway House program, followed by a ¾ way house program and transitional apartment living. This approach to step-down levels of care for the women, provide a more holistic continuum of care. These services will give the women more support as they transition back into the community. Donations are always valued at Santa Monica and the women benefit from toiletries, clothing, and paper products.

Visit our new website at www.santamonicahouse.org for more information about the agency, what the future holds, and how to help.

The mission of the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (SACMuseum.org) is to preserve the history of Strategic Air Command, the Cold War and aerospace artifacts and to inspire learning through imaginative, innovative, and inspirational programs and exhibits. The museum is not funded by any government source and relies on the community to help carry out its mission.

The museum is home to one of the largest collections of Cold War aircraft and artifacts in the U.S. Visitors can touch iconic aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft as well as learn about historic leaders and events. The museum offers free public tours, family events, Children’s Learning Center, and educational programs. The museum’s STEM programming supplements public education with field trips, camps, and monthly workshops. Looking for a thrill? Fly in the museum’s flight simulator or visit a STEM exhibit. There is something for everyone at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum!

Just 20 minutes from Omaha or Lincoln. To check out the museum’s monthly events, rental spaces, or how to become a member, go to SACMuseum.org!

Open Door Mission (www.opendoormission.org) is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 2,100 nutritious meals and provides homeless preventive measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty.

Visit www.opendoormission.org or call (402) 422-1111 to see how you can make a difference in our community.

The mission of the Veterans in Business Forum (VIBF) is to provide business support, education and advocacy to help veterans succeed in business and increase community awareness of veteran-owned business activities. Veterans, active duty, reservists, and civilians are welcome to join and support each other and veteran-related goals.

The VIBF meets the first Friday of every month (0800-0900) and serves the Omaha area. (www.omahanebraska.com/VeteransinBusinessForumOmahaNetworking)

Speakers may be from VIBF members, business groups, veteran groups, NBDC, PTAC, SBA, SCORE, or private sector and government agencies on a wide range of topics. VIBF encourages collaboration through networking. Each month, members can bring up issues and concerns to discuss with the group to get recommendations to help come up with effective solutions.

Contact us to learn more: Michel Thornhill, (402) 932-7243, info@littlemountainwebdesign.com. Mailing Address: VIBF c/o Little Mountain Web Design, P.O. Box 461235, Papillion, NE 68046.

Mission: “To improve the quality of life by caring for the body and mind.”

Jennie Edmundson Foundation (www.jehfoundation.org) is the fundraising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. By engaging philanthropic leaders, we are able to help make certain that the equipment, facilities, programs, services and educational initiatives at MJE continue to meet community needs.

The JE Foundation relies on donations and grants from our community. These funds go to help our Charitable Patient Care Fund, Breast Health Center, Medi-Bus Transportation and Scholarship Funds, to name a few. Generous contributions provide education, care, and services to many who may not otherwise have access to healthcare services. Individual or Planned gifts, Memorials or becoming an event or corporate sponsor are also a few ways to help.

Becoming a MJE Teen or Adult Volunteer gives you the opportunity to be involved in many facets of volunteerism. What a wonderful way to meet new people; develop new skills, interests and be rewarded through the experiences of helping patients, family members, and hospital staff.

To find out more about the JE Foundation and how you can get involved, call (712) 396-6040 or visit our website at www.jehfoundation.org.

For almost twenty years The La Vista Community Foundation (LVCF; www.LaVistaCommunityFoundation.com) has been helping make our growing community a GREAT place to Live, Work and Play. The word community is the key, and it is what makes things happen in La Vista, Nebraska. We have been a leader in funding activities through collaboration and cooperation of our citizens, businesses, civil representatives, and community sponsors.

LVCF facilitates Community Impact Grants each fall. We have supported and shared success with many area charities, education programs, human service organizations and civic/recreation activities. Yearly contributions support our efforts, and several donor-advised funds are also used to support our grant program. We have been able to give back over $300,000 to the La Vista Community since our early years.

We promote a fun and engaging LVCF Golf Classic fundraiser each summer, and we work to raise dollars from the proceeds at a local fireworks tent each year. And importantly, our organization has chosen to lead the metro area in honoring our U.S. Veterans with our annual “Salute to Veterans” Dinner event, each November at the Embassy Suites – La Vista Conference Center. This event is no charge for veterans who attend.

We look forward to helping La Vista grow! Our goal is solid: to identify need, involve people, and engage support.

For more information about LVCF, or to support our mission with a donation or a donor-advised contribution, please contact John Yochum, executive director, at (402) 960-9625. You can also email us at info@LaVistaCommunityFoundation.com. Our website is www.LaVistaCommunityFoundation.com.

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS; www.LFSneb.org) expresses God’s love for all people through quality human care services for people in Nebraska and Pottawattamie County, supporting Safety, Hope and Well-Being through:

Children Services strengthening families and restoring safe, happy childhoods through a continuum of care from prenatal to adulthood. Programs include Centers for Healthy Families in North Omaha and Council Bluffs, Adoption, Foster Care and RSafe® sexual abuse treatment.
Behavioral Health programs healing minds and hearts through cutting-edge trauma therapy, substance abuse treatment and integrated care services. Programs include Outpatient Mental Health, Crisis Response and “LFS At Ease” support for active military, veterans and their loved ones.
Community Services welcoming and providing comprehensive services to those seeking refuge from violence, oppression, and persecution, including refugee reception/placement, immigration legal services and the International Center of the Heartland.

LFS has received the Better Business Bureau of Nebraska’s Integrity Award in 2017 and 2013 and a Greater Omaha Chamber’s Business Excellence Award in 2018.

Please consider volunteering your time, sharing your expertise or making a financial gift. Other ways to support LFS include collecting items for donation such as children’s clothing and diapers.

To donate or learn more, please visit www.LFSneb.org, send an email to development@LFSneb.org, or call (402) 978-5622.

Together, we can end child abuse. Project Harmony (www.projectharmony.com) is boldly focused on ending the cycle of child abuse and neglect in our community. We have reimagined how communities can come together by leveraging resources to respond to, treat and ultimately prevent child abuse. Project Harmony restores courage, facilitates healing and empowers each of us to be someone in the life of a child. Take the pledge to be someone in the life of a child today at ProjectBeSomeone.org.

To find out more about Project Harmony, visit www.projectharmony.com or call (402) 595-1326.

NAMI Omaha (www.naminebraska.org) is a local affiliate of The National Alliance on Mental Illness. We provide free support to family and friends who have a loved one living with mental illness. We do this through education, literature, workshops, conferences, support groups and more. We also offer support groups to the individuals who have a mental illness.

One of our most successful educational programs is called FAMILY to FAMILY. It is a free series of 12 classes (one 2 1/2 hour session weekly). These classes are structured to help families and friends understand and support their mentally ill loved ones while maintaining their own well-being. The classes include information about mental illnesses, medications, resources, problem-solving, and family communications.

For information, go to www.naminebraska.org or call (402) 345-8101. For helpful articles on mental illness follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/NAMIOmaha.

Did you know…

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF; www.midlandscommunity.org) helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals and “Invest in the Power of Community.”

MCF has played an integral part in managing three Affiliated Funds: Gretna Community Foundation, Bellevue Community Foundation and Springfield Community Foundation. These Affiliated Funds have worked hard in their own communities raising awareness and building partnerships to secure a strong Foundation in their respective city.

MCF manages 115 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past year, more than $1 million has been distributed into the community through these charitable funds, MCF grants and discretionary gifts in the areas of healthcare, arts, culture, community, economic development, education and human services.

MCF can provide you with a simple, powerful and highly personal approach to giving through a variety of charitable gifting vehicles. We hold ourselves to high standards, have strong integrity and most importantly work to make a difference in your local community. The time is NOW to create a charitable fund to benefit your personal interests.

Designated Funds
Donor Advised Funds
Field of Interest Funds
Scholarship Funds

To learn more, visit www.midlandscommunity.org or call (402) 991-8027.

Childhood cancer is severely underfunded and misunderstood. Cancer is the #1 cause of death by disease among children, yet only 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget is dedicated to researching childhood cancer. And while over 60% of adult cancer research is paid for by big pharmaceutical companies, they don’t even give 1% to childhood cancer research due to low profits. A cure for childhood cancer will be funded by small, private groups like Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation. Sammy’s is a Nebraska-based 501c3 non-profit which funds researchers who are doing groundbreaking, innovative work that will lead to modern treatments that will save and have less debilitating side effects for these sweet little fighters. Sammy’s main mission is to raise funds for research, but also to comfort families in the hardest times of their lives. Join the fight, visit www.SammysSuperheroes.org or find us on Facebook to get involved.

Kids Can! Community Center’s (KidsCanOmaha.org) mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences. Kids Can! serves children 18 months to 13 years old. We offer a variety of programs including early childhood education, before- and after-school programs, summer and non-school day programs, tutoring, and mentoring. Kids Can! utilizes the Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears activities for our youngest students with the goal of ensuring all students are prepared to enter Kindergarten. School-age children participate in the STEMsmart Academy which focuses on science, technology, engineering, math, strength, music, art, reading, and tutoring supporting well-rounded children.

Founded in 1908 as Social Settlement Association of Omaha, Kids Can! has a long history of making a meaningful impact in the community. Kids Can! is located on 49th and Q Streets in Omaha.

For more information about Kids Can! Community Center, visit KidsCanOmaha.org, call (402) 731-6988, or email jgillman@kidscanomaha.org.

Outlook Nebraska (outlookne.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to positively impacting everyone who is blind and visually impaired. Outlook helps anyone dealing with vision loss find the resources they need, learn how to use technology to stay independent, find out about employment opportunities and stay active through recreation and cultural activities.

We provide free training on computers, smartphones, and other devices to any members of the community with vision loss. We collaborate with other organizations to provide recreational and cultural activities for the blind. Through community education, Outlook Nebraska increases awareness of the capabilities of the blind and visually impaired and aims to help answer the call for social responsibility among citizens and business leaders.

More than 60% of Outlook’s associates are legally blind and utilize an array of innovative low vision technologies. Many work on the production floor of Outlook’s growing manufacturing facility, operating machines and packing a commercial line of recycled paper. Others work in administrative departments such as sales, accounting, and marketing.

Outlook Nebraska is the only agency of its kind in a seven-state area. Our aim is to positively change people’s attitudes about blindness.

For more information about Outlook Nebraska, visit outlookne.org.

Helping Survivors Thrive

With a focus on survivorship, our bold and compassionate programs tackle the real issues that challenge the lives of survivors and their families. From the moment of diagnosis through end of life, Project Pink’d, Inc. (www.projectpinkd.org) provides tools, resources, and a strong network to strengthen and renew the mind, body, and spirit of breast cancer survivors in our local community. In 2017, we had the honor and privilege of impacting the lives of over 2400 breast cancer survivors in 26 counties throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa.

Those diagnosed with breast cancer often face challenges related to finances, anxiety, depression and sexual wellness, self-esteem and strained relationships with family. This is WHY Project Pink›d focuses on quality of life AFTER a breast cancer diagnosis. Our programs focus on improving the quality of life for survivors, providing support for survivors› emotional, physical, and financial well-being.

For more information, please visit www.projectpinkd.org.

Our Mission:

To be Nebraska’s primary resource for Parkinson’s Disease information, educational programs, and exercise classes.

A Journey Shared.

We build connections to strengthen Nebraska’s Parkinson’s (www.parkinsonsnebraska.org) community in mind, body & spirit. Our website, newsletters, and staff serve the nearly 16,000 Nebraskans living with Parkinson’s. Since 2016 we have sponsored 1000+ specialized exercise classes, host monthly educational talks, and assist individuals and organizations with accessing important equipment and support. We’re locally based, passionate, and HERE to help!

Our Big Plans:

Parkinson’s Nebraska will host a “Delay the Disease” training class in Grand Island this September. This workshop will empower professionals across Nebraska to deliver quality Parkinson’s programming!

Please join us for what we hope to be our biggest fundraiser to date, Walk & Run the Park for Parkinson’s—featuring the 1st Annual “Shake-a-Leg 5K!” on September 30 at Elmwood Park in Omaha.

Find out more a www.parkinsonsnebraska.org.

For more than 140 years, Heartland Family Service (HeartlandFamilyService.org) has been the area leader in creating the path to a better tomorrow for children and families. Each year, we serve over 52,000 individuals from more than 15 locations in east-central Nebraska and southwest Iowa through three program areas: Child & Family Well-Being, Counseling & Prevention, and Housing, Safety, & Financial Stability. With over 50 programs, we are able to craft an integrated, multi-service approach to guide clients toward safety, well-being, and, ultimately, self-sufficiency.

When life improves for one of us, life improves for all of us. We all matter.

To support our mission of strengthening individuals and families in our community through education, counseling, and support services, text “HFS” to 72727, visit HeartlandFamilyService.org, or contact Chief Development Officer Donna Dostal at (402) 552-7443 or DDostal@HeartlandFamilyService.org.

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ (FCA; nebraskafca.org) purpose and passion is “Advancing the Gospel, in sport, through transformational leaders.” In order to do this, we must adhere to our strategy of “to and through the coach.” In other words, disciple coaches to be disciple-makers.

Billy Graham once said, “A coach will impact more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime.” We’ve seen this to be true. The average coach spends approximately 1,000 hours of face-to-face time with a student-athlete each year. We want these coaches to feel equipped and empowered in their engagement with their athletes, prepared to be there for their students, not just on the field or in the locker room, but in daily life.

In order to accomplish this, we need staff, volunteers and financial partners. We would be honored if you would partner with us to make this happen. For more information, visit nebraskafca.org.

Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC; www.midlandslatinocdc.org) provides Latinos and low-income individuals with opportunities to generate economic growth by providing financing products, development services and community development that advances their ability to develop a sustainable future in the Midlands.

The top programs the organization provides are Business Development, Childcare creation, Micro-lending and Financial Capability programs. We have been serving the community for about 10 years with these programs.

Since 2009 we have been provided ongoing education to more than 3,500 women in several of our programs. This effort has developed around 85 new childcare centers, 315 new businesses and 1,260 new jobs in the Omaha metro area.

MLCDC educate and offer one-on-one coaching to low-to-moderate-income constituents seeking to build assets through affordable homeownership, and build a plan to improve their financial capability through personalized financial coaching, financial literacy and the responsible access to financial products.

For more information, visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org.

Don’t Miss Out!

This is an excellent opportunity for your non-profit to gain exposure amongst our readers, as well as for our readers to familiarize themselves with the needs of the various organizations and the valuable work that is going on in our community. If you are a local non-profit organization that is interested in participating in the next Supporting Non-Profits feature in Strictly Business Magazine, please call (402) 466-3330 or email Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com today!

Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha, NE – 2018 (July – December)