Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha, NE – 2019 (January – July)

Our Strictly Business team would like to take this opportunity to strongly encourage our readers to be conscious consumers, as we feel that it is incredibly important to support local businesses that support the local community. As businesspeople, while working hard towards our own 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. Supporting our local non-profit organizations is something that we can all do to give back individually, and to truly make a difference collectively.

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, which doubles as charity and team bonding. 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.

By contributing to a cause that truly helps others, and mobilizing efforts within your organization, you’ll find a feeling of satisfaction that’s rewarding beyond measure. Unfortunately, it’s just not feasible to contribute to every charity, so you will likely be pulled in many directions when it comes to choosing which ones you want to support. As the goal is to donate money, volunteer, and invest your resources in the areas where they’ll do the most good, there’s more to it than simply selecting a cause you feel strongly about and writing a check. Sadly, we’ve all seen the headlines about non-profits that have misused or misrepresented the funds they’ve been given. This ties up resources that could be put to better use by one of the many wonderful charitable organizations in the area that are making a sizeable impact for the better, both right here in our community and globally. As such, by gaining a basic understanding of where resources are being allocated, you’ll easily be able to justify your contribution because it lines up with your beliefs and ethics. All non-profits are not created equal, so do your research! While raising awareness is incredibly important, actions often do speak louder than words. The work that each non-profit does, and in turn your contribution to their cause, should impact the community in a real and meaningful way. If this topic interests you, consider taking on an active role within an organization. Serve on the board or as a director, that way you can ensure funds and resources are being used correctly.

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 reputable local non-profit organizations that are doing amazing things in our area.

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—and they need support. Oftentimes, their reach extends beyond that to make an impact at the state, national, and/or global level, but these organizations also create jobs in our community and need local volunteers to get things accomplished. These positions and volunteer opportunities allow many people to fulfill their greater purpose by doing what they love while touching lives and truly making a difference. With the strong following we have among the Omaha business community, we feel compelled to give these organizations a platform to share their missions and happenings, with the hope that doing so will connect them with local support.

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!

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 (www.SammysSuperheroes.org). 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.

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters strives for all youth in the program to reach their full potential. A Big Brother, Big Sister or Big Couple provides youth with a sense of safety and security, emotional support and social skill promotion. Bigs and Littles are matched based on common interests so they can have the benefit of doing activities together that they both enjoy. With a Big by their side, more Littles are discovering who they are and what they can achieve in life. Big Brothers Big Sisters is working to clear the path for our youth’s biggest possible futures.

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

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).

Angels Among Us (www.myangelsamongus.org) 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 nearly 400 families with $1.6 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.

Child Saving Institute (CSI; childsaving.org) focuses on the prevention, intervention, and healing of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. Since its beginning more than 127 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 in crisis, quality early childhood education, consultation services for low-income child care centers, foster care, foster parent training, 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 nearly 2,800 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, 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.

Since 1938, Inclusive Communities (www.inclusive-communities.org) has served the Heartland in the areas of youth; community and workplace human relations; and leadership programming to achieve our mission of confronting prejudice, bigotry, and discrimination through educational programs that raise awareness, foster leadership, and encourage advocacy for a just and inclusive society.

Inclusive Communities programming includes IncluCity, Omaha Table Talk, and customized business training. IncluCity is a leadership program for high school students, designed to empower youth to create respectful and just communities. Omaha Table Talk provides facilitated and structured, but informal gatherings of people throughout our community, engaging in conversations about diversity and inclusion over a meal. Our Custom Business Solutions provide workshops focused on building leadership skills and respectful, inclusive behaviors using activities and presentations aimed at building empathy; examining biases and prejudices; and increasing the knowledge, language and dialogue skills to forge meaningful intergroup relationships.

For more information visit us at: www.inclusive-communities.org.

Friendship Program, Inc. (www.friendshipprogram.com) is a community-based non-profit agency dedicated to providing quality services for adults with aging and/or mental health needs in Omaha and surrounding areas. The agency provides three distinct programs: Adult Day, Day Rehabilitation, and Community Support Services. In addition, the agency offers Social Services, Health Services, Peer Support Services, Transportation, and Agency Support Services as part of wraparound care. All services are based on the belief that each individual can maximize his or her ability to live independently within the community. Furthermore, the services promote health and wellness including education and activities in the areas such as physical fitness, nutrition, mental health, socialization, recreation, and safety. The name of the agency, “Friendship,” was chosen by participants in 1979 and perfectly describes the programs which offer care, compassion, and companionship to adults. For more than 39 years the agency has served the Omaha community providing care from the heart.

The American Heart 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 percent by 2020, while reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke by 20 percent. Currently, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease and stroke. Through events right here in Omaha like the Omaha-Council Bluffs Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Expo and Heart & Stroke Ball, that startling statistic can change.

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

Midlands Mentoring Partnership is changing our name to MENTOR Nebraska (www.MentorNebraska.org). In this new role, MENTOR Nebraska will continue the important work of raising awareness, standards, and numbers around mentoring, but will now extend this work outside of Omaha and across the state of Nebraska. Training, support, technical assistance, and background checks will be provided to nearly 200 mentoring programs around the state. This expansion will allow MENTOR Nebraska to ensure that more youth are being served safely and effectively through adherence to national standards for evidence-based mentoring.

MENTOR Nebraska’s vision is for every young person to have the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive and engaged adults. For that to happen, we need caring adults like you to volunteer your time. Please help us make a difference in someone’s life. Learn how you can become a mentor at one of Omaha’s mentoring programs at www.MentorNebraska.org.

The mission of Omaha Home for Boys (OmahaHomeForBoys.org) is to support and strengthen youth, young adults and families through services that inspire and equip them to lead independent, productive lives. The Home’s clients are empowered to transition from a state of crisis to those of safety and growth through five core programs: residential care, transitional living, independent living, supportive housing and clinical services.

The individuals 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’s programs focusing on education, employment, housing and behavioral and mental health. 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.

Omaha Creative Institute is now Amplify Arts! Amplify Arts is a 501c3 nonprofit that promotes unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. We award $35,000 in grants to local artists each year, and we provide artists with business skills training through our educational programs like Artist INC, Working Artist Wednesdays, and Work In Progress. We also work to create systemic change in the arts sector by connecting artists, nonprofit organizations, and industry leaders. Part of that work includes connecting local businesses with artists to bring curated or custom works of art into your business space. Every step of our process can be tailored to your unique project needs. If your business is interested in working to bring local art into your space, please contact us by phone at (402) 996-1092 or by email at info@amplifyarts.org. Visit our website at www.amplifyarts.org.

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 Audits, Zero Waste Consultation and Event Planning, Community and Regional Recycling Systems, Construction Waste Management
Grants: Recycling Equipment Grants
Publications: Best Management Practices, E-Newsletters, Case Studies
Annual Awards Luncheon: National Speaker, Workshops, Business & Community Environmental Awards

Waste Nothing. Visit www.nrcne.org or call (402) 436-2384 to learn more.

BLUEBARN Theatre (bluebarn.org), celebrating its 30th Anniversary, 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 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. Come celebrate the sensationally normal, cheerily subversive, and triumphantly theatrical this season. The 30th Anniversary Season gives you the chance to escape…back to reality.

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 and a network of loving foster parents serving over 2,400 kids and families each year.

Thanks to community support, CEDARS is there for children and youth who are unable to live at home, for families in need of resources, support and education, and for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

CEDARS is accredited through the Council on Accreditation and the National Association for the Education of Young Children, is a United Way partner, a four star charity with Charity Navigator, a top-rated charity with the American Institute of Philanthropy, and a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.

Today, CEDARS will serve nearly 800 children and youth.

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

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.

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

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, Employment Solutions, Community Service, Work Experience, and YouthBuild AmeriCorps.

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

The Siena/Francis House (www.sienafrancis.org) is Nebraska’s largest shelter and is located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. The Siena/Francis House is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-denominational, charitable organization, with all financial support able to be deducted by donors, to the full extent of the law. Our overnight programs include providing emergency shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness (262 beds), a residential addiction recovery program for homeless men and women (79 beds) and permanent supportive housing apartments (48 beds). We also have a Rehousing and Reintegration program, designed to help homeless guests acquire the services they need to successfully navigate their way into affordable, safe and appropriate housing out in the community. Additionally, Siena/Francis House offers a food program which serves 3 meals per day, clothing distribution and a work therapy program for up to 110 homeless resident men and women. In-kind donations can be dropped off to our loading dock, located at 1111 North 17th Street, which is open from 8 am until 5 pm every day of the year. Monetary donations are always welcome and can be made online at www.sienafrancis.org. The Siena/Francis House’s Executive Director is Linda Twomey who begins her second year leading the organization in January 2019.

For more than a century, Jewish Family Service of Omaha has provided crucial aid and support to the community. Our mission as a human service agency is to strengthen and preserve life in the Jewish community and the community at large through every stage of the life cycle.

Our Nationally Board Certified, licensed staff provide the services individuals, couples, and families require when facing challenges in their lives:

Counseling is provided to all clients regardless of religion, age, gender, ethnicity, or ability to pay.

Adoption Home Study Services assist potential adoptive parents to fulfill their dreams of parenthood.

Family Life Education–Mental Health Practitioners are trained facilitators of Parenting the Love and Logic Way™, and Love and Logic Early Childhood Parenting Made Fun™, by Jim Fay and Charles Fay, Ph.D. Offered at our location, or yours by request!

Please call (402) 330-2024 for more information, or to schedule an appointment.

Help the Omaha Police Foundation (OPF; www.OmahaPoliceFoundation.org) Support Our Local Officers! We work to promote and strengthen the Omaha Police Department (OPD) by providing financial support and creating community partnerships to ensure it has highly qualified officers who have the training, equipment and technology needed to prevent crime, save lives and make Omaha a safer community. Since 1999, the OPF has sponsored and hosted the annual Officer of the Year Awards Luncheon to recognize exceptional effort and to honor acts of heroism. The OPF is currently raising funds to purchase 600 Body Worn Cameras to equip each and every officer in the Department’s Uniform Patrol Bureau. 100% of all donations go directly to the project of your choice. If you would like to learn more or to support the work of the Omaha Police Foundation, please visit www.OmahaPoliceFoundation.org or contact OPF Administrator Elizabeth Balazs at (402) 345-5401, ext. 102.

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.

Incorporated in 2002, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM; www.nonprofitam.org) started with the goal of helping nonprofits help their communities. CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen more than 550 nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” Hindery said.

NAM’s signature Guidelines and Principles Program provides legal compliance and best practices information in 12 major areas of nonprofit management: communication, evaluation, financial management, fundraising, governance, human resources, information technology, planning, public policy and advocacy, strategic alliances, transparency and accountability, and volunteer management.

The National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits, recognizes NAM as the state association for Nebraska. Learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.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.

Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC; www.midlandslatinocdc.org) provides low-income new immigrants 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 11 years with these programs.

Since 2009, we have been provided ongoing education to more than 5,217 clients, 325 small business have been launched, 128 micro-loans have been awarded, and 1,260 new jobs have been created and maintained in the Omaha metro area.

MLCDC educates and offers one-on-one coaching to low-to-moderate-income new immigrants 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.

NAMI Omaha (www.namiomaha.org) is a non-profit organization composed of consumers, family members, professionals and friends who have come together to share and take comfort in the commonality of their experiences and to educate members of their communities about serious brain disorders. Along with education/literature, support, workshops, conferences and more. NAMI Omaha actively advocates at the local, state, and national levels to improve the services and the lives of those affected by mental illness and their families.

One of our most successful and free educational programs is FAMILY TO FAMILY [F2F]. It is a 12-week course for family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses. The course offers a wide variety of information including: current information about mental illnesses, medications, current research, gaining empathy, learning problem solving, listening and communication techniques, acquiring strategies for handling crises and relapse, focusing on the caregiver, guidance on locating appropriate supports and services and information on advocacy initiatives.

For information, go to www.namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 / (877) 463-6264. For helpful articles on mental illness follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/NAMIOmaha.

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.

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

Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP; www.encapnebraska.org) is a non-profit community based organization that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty since 1965. Annually we provide services to approximately 7,000 individuals in over 2,500 unique households. Serving Douglas and Sarpy Counties, ENCAP is a member of a national network of over 1,000 Community Action Agencies dedicated to providing programming that meets community needs, that responds to the voices of the low-income community, and that demonstrates continuous quality improvement. ENCAP’s service areas include: Emergency rent and utility assistance, community response, emergency food assistance, transportation, and mental health and Substance abuse counseling. For more information please go to: www.encapnebraska.org

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.

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

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.

MICAH House, a homeless shelter in Council Bluffs, has provided warm beds, meals, and services to children, families, and women for more than 30 years. Located on the Charles E. Lakin Human Services Campus, MICAH House serves hundreds of homeless individuals each year – and more than half are children. Our focus is to keep families together, while reducing the amount of trauma children experience during a difficult time in their lives. The BUDDY program provides an opportunity for MICAH House children to play, learn, and grow. New in 2019, MICAH House will expand services to include a 26-bed women’s shelter and health care clinic. The shelter will offer a therapeutic healing environment and includes a full-time therapist on-site. The three-exam room clinic will allow MICAH House clients and community members access to medical and dental services five days a week. For more information, please visit www.themicahhouse.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 3,682 youth in the Omaha metro. YES also provided 9,818 meals to homeless and near-homeless youth throughout Street Outreach Center. 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.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local 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, 41,776 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1993, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $323 million in Nebraska’s people and places.

For information, visit NebraskaHometown.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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

The Set Me Free Project (www.setmefreeproject.net) is a nonprofit organization whose focus is to combat sex trafficking. Our mission is to bring prevention education to youth and families to stop trafficking before it starts.

Our curricula packages are informative, interactive, and flexible – reaching students from 3rd-12th grades, educators, parents, industry-specific professionals, and community members.

The Set Me Free Project is unique, because we not only bring awareness, we bring education. Our educators empower each audience member to protect themselves and others from traffickers. We show students how and why they are at risk, and we teach them ways to protect themselves. We teach the adults involved in the lives of youth to better guide and protect them. Every presentation we give is based on the foundation of each individual’s intrinsic value and worth.

Together, with our collaborators and supporters, we stop human trafficking before it starts.

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.

Founded in 1993, the Cancer Alliance of Nebraska (www.cancerallianceofnebraska.org) is a nationally-recognized 501c3 nonprofit working with the National Cancer Institute and pharmaceutical companies to provide breakthrough treatments to cancer patients using clinical trials which we bring to the local community settings here in Nebraska. Every day we get closer to the cure.

Why Cancer Clinical Trials are Important:

They lead to the discovery of new cancer treatments and cures
They can improve the health of participating cancer patients
They benefit future generations, impacting thousands of lives
When our research is shared – across the state and around the globe – we get closer to the cure even faster

We succeed in our work due to the collaborative support of our experienced physicians, hospitals, clinics, donors, and patients in communities across the state of Nebraska. And we share in the collective belief that there is always something more we can do. Visit our site at www.cancerallianceofnebraska.org.

Grief’s Journey (www.griefsjourney.org) (formerly Ted E. Bear Hollow) 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.

Parkinson’s Nebraska (www.parkinsonsnebraska.org) is the primary source of education, support, and resources for Nebraskans whose lives are affected by Parkinson’s Disease. Our goal is to create a community of patients, caregivers, and resources so that the journey of Parkinson’s is A Journey Shared.

We serve the nearly 16,000 Nebraskans living with Parkinson’s. Since 2016, we have sponsored over 1,000 specialized exercise classes, provided support to patients and caregivers, and assisted individuals access important resources. We are locally-based, passionate, and proud that all funds stay in Nebraska to benefit the Nebraska Parkinson’s community.

At Parkinson’s Nebraska, we strive to identify and meet the ever-changing needs of the Parkinson’s community. Our goals for 2019 include providing transportation services and expanding our reach in rural communities. We look forward to developing community partnerships to meet these goals and grow our network of resources.

To learn more, contact Amber at amber@parkinsonsnebraska.org, (402) 715-4707, or visit www.parkinsonsnebraska.org.

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 125 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.

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 six 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 19, 2019 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.

Outlook Nebraska (outlookne.org) helps anyone 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. From teaching them to use technology to helping them enjoy a theater performance with audio description to being their eyes when biking – we strive to enhance the lives of our blind neighbors.

Through our enrichment programs, the visually impaired participate in cultural and recreational activities they otherwise could not enjoy. Our employment opportunities improve their self-sufficiency. Outlook Nebraska is the largest employer of the blind in Nebraska, through production of janitorial paper products and our business support center, Outlook Business Solutions.

The Need:

15,000 people in metro area have vision loss that interferes with daily activities. This will more than double because of the prevalence of diabetes and our aging population
More people in our region experience vision loss than homelessness, and most vision loss cannot be corrected.
1 in 4 of us is at risk of severe vision loss today.

Giving Opportunities:

Be a Vision Monthly Partner with a $20/month automatic donation. Choose this option at outlookne.org/support.
Make a cash donation at outlookne.org/support or mail a check to Outlook Nebraska.
Sponsor an event such as our June Tee It Up Fore Sight golf tournament.
Plan a future donation:through our Legacy Fund.

Help those with vision loss in our community live life to the fullest with a donation. Visit outlookne.org to learn more.

You probably know that when a worker is injured on the job, workers’ compensation pays the medical expenses and lost wages. What you may not know is that workers’ compensation does not take into account the costs of post-secondary education for children of the injured worker. Often families who have suffered such a tragedy are forced to care for the injured individual and do not have the funding to send their children to college.

Kids’ Chance of Nebraska’s (KCNE; www.kidschanceofne.org) mission is to provide scholarships to children whose parents have suffered a workplace injury or death. We want to raise awareness of our mission. KCNE wants to do what we say: Give the kids a chance.

Eligible students and families are encouraged to go to www.kidschanceofne.org for information, no matter the age of the children.

We are a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. If you are interested in making a donation, go to www.kidschanceofne.org/make-a-donation/

Our mission is to empower and equip under educated and economically disadvantaged men and women through character development, vocational training and work experience.

The CROSS TRAINING CENTER (www.crosstc.com) exemplifies the message, “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day but if you teach him how to fish, you feed him for a life time.”

Our students are youth and adults who are unemployed because of challenging backgrounds and circumstances. They have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, generational poverty and other challenging conditions.

We provide vocational training and hands-on work experience so they gain skills and knowledge to overcome the barriers of employment. They are able to acquire a job on a career path and break the cycle of poverty for generations to come.

Our students receive real work experience while providing valuable services to the community in the following areas:

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

Cross Training Center’s mission is to provide Solutions to Poverty through Work. Our work experience program not only helps our students succeed but also keeps our environment safe and clean. Learn more at www.crossrecycling.com. Contact Brenda Banks at (402) 590-2100, via email at brenda@crosstc.com, or visit www.crosstc.com for more information.

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.

Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha, NE – 2019 (January – July)