Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha

Supporting the growth and prosperity of local businesses has always been the focus of our work at Strictly Business, but we are also strong supporters of our local non-profit organizations whose work and outreach impacts so many individuals and families in our community. With so many non-profit organizations here in the Omaha Metro making a unique contributions yet all serving as agents of change where it’s most important, if there’s a need, you can be sure that there are people who are working tirelessly to ensure that it’s met. With the primary role of connecting people with resources, by principal and design, non-profits are dedicated to the common good of the community and measure their success according to quality of life and not quantity of profit.

In the business world, we are always working hard towards our goals but also to make our community a better place. We are invested in a thriving community because it allows us to build our businesses as well as our families, friendships, fellowship in the community and to contribute to ensuring that our city is the best place possible to live and work. Non-profit organizations are the glue that holds our community together; they 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, and for many, their work reaches out to affect more people than just those in the Omaha Metro. 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.

One thing’s for sure, we can all contribute in some way to the valuable work that our non-profits are doing every day. 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 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 paramount.

With the ever-growing number of non-profit organizations it can be hard to decide where to focus your efforts. With continued emphasis on the importance of understanding that all non-profits are not created equal, make sure to do your research before making the commitment to support a particular organization. It’s important that the organizations you choose to support align with your beliefs and are working towards something you are passionate about, but a practical understanding how resources are put to work will ensure your efforts are maximized. Transparency is highly regarded in the non-profit sector, so even spending just a few minutes doing your due diligence to ensure that a majority of the funds they are generating will be used specifically for the cause they are promoting will suffice.

In closing, we ask that everyone reflect upon how they are currently giving back to the Omaha Metro community, and consider supporting the wonderful non-profit organizations we’ve featured that are invested in creating positive and lasting change for the betterment of all.

Gambling With The Good Life (GWTGL; gwtgl.com) formed as a grassroots, citizen-action non-profit organization in 1995 to oppose gambling expansion in Nebraska. GWTGL encompasses a coalition of individuals, businesses, political leaders, media and religious groups in their efforts to stand up against the predatory gambling industry. Since that time, GWTGL has successfully fought off all efforts to expand gambling in our great state.

GWTGL sees casino gambling, slot machines and expanded gambling as a negative influence on Nebraska citizens, families, communities, businesses, local economies and public policy decision-making. Gambling With The Good Life stands up to fight the predatory gambling industry and welcomes all fellow Nebraskans who share our concern to join us in this courageous battle.

If The Good Life of Nebraska is to be preserved for our children and grandchildren, now is the time to act. Unlimited Casinos will be on the ballot in November. We need your help now!

For more information on how you can get involved, please visit Gambling With The Good Life today at gwtgl.com or contact Pat Loontjer at (402) 551-2776.

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WasteCap Nebraska (www.wastecapne.org) is a statewide, member-based non-profit organization building zero waste communities in Nebraska. We help leaders identify zero waste policies, programs and infrastructure appropriate for their community. Business assistance is a key strategy for achieving community zero waste goals. We provide business solutions for controlling waste management costs through vendor selection, service optimization, prevention and diversion.

Our goal is Zero Waste. What’s yours? For more information about WasteCap Nebraska, visit www.wastecapne.org or call (402) 436-2384.

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The STAR Project (www.thestarprojectinc.org) is a 501(c)3 organization based in Nebraska. Our Mission is to bring change to the lives of animals who are at risk for unnecessary euthanasia, have suffered abuse and neglect, deemed special needs, rapidly deteriorating in the shelter, or facing breed discrimination. The STAR Project will provide a home through our network of approved foster providers, and offer medical care and treatment until they find their forever home. We rescue animals nationwide, and provide support to the humans who make it possible. Interested in learning more?

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The Hope Center for Kids (www.hopecenterforkids.com) strives to faithfully inspire hope in approximately 1,600 youth and children of North Omaha and Fremont, Nebraska through education, employability, collaboration and faith. Founded in 1998 by the late Ty and Terri Schenzel, The Hope desires that every youth graduate from high school with a plan for their future. The Hope offers programming and nutrition, as well as a safe place for fun and relationship building for youth and children ages 5 to 25. Youth receive tutoring, participate in job skills training and attend weekly Bible studies. It costs only $1,500 to sponsor a child for an entire year and give them the opportunity to attend The Hope’s life-transforming programming.

The Hope – Omaha, 2200 North 20th Street, Omaha, NE 68110.

The Hope – Fremont, 555 West 23 Street, Fremont, NE 68025.

To find out about volunteer opportunities and become a part of the impact being made in your community, visit www.hopecenterforkids.com or call (402) 341-4673.

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“Touching Lives…Making a Difference”

Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO; www.alomaha.org) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit 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; ACT/PSAT Review Sessions, preparing students for college entrance examinations; 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; and Operation Bear Hug, furnishing stuffed bears to children in crisis situations.

Assistance League of Omaha receives no federal, state or city funding. Fundraising projects include a thrift shop at 36th & Leavenworth and the annual Christmas Caravan tour of homes. Donations and grants are needed. Serving Omaha since 1974, the organization returns 100% of proceeds raised to the community.

Call (402) 342-4288 or visit www.alomaha.org for more information.

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The Alzheimer’s Association® (www.alz.org) is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. For an estimated 33,000 Nebraskans, Alzheimer’s disease is the ultimate thief — of their identity and precious memories. Their caregivers and loved ones are left feeling alone and heartbroken. The Alzheimer’s Association provides education and support to those who face dementia every day. On a national level, the Association advances critical research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease, the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.

Find out how you can get involved – visit www.alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.

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What is your Good Life? While each person’s version of The Good Life is different, each shares common ground in the opportunity and the freedom to try to achieve that life. Since 2009, the Nebraska chapter of Americans for Prosperity has fought for each Nebraskan to have the opportunity to attain their version of The Good Life. AFP-NE is a 501c4, non-partisan, grassroots organization that advocates for free-market policies at the state and local level. Join the more than 40,000 Nebraskans and fight for The Good Life by talking with your neighbors on the phone or door-to-door, lobbying your elected officials, and more. Check out Nebraska chapter of Americans for Prosperity at AFPNebraska.com, Like us at Facebook.com/AFPNebraska, and follow us at Twitter.com/afpne.

Want to get involved or have a question? Email us at InfoNE@afphq.org.

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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 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 Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Expo and Heart Ball, that startling statistic can change.

For more information about the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, visit www.heart.org/omaha.

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Better Business Bureau® (BBB®; bbbinc.org) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is a private, non-profit organization established in 1912 and under the current leadership of President and CEO Jim Hegarty.

Its vision is an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other.

Its mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust.
BBB accomplishes this by:

Setting standards for marketplace trust.
Encouraging and supporting best practices by engaging with and education consumers and businesses.
Celebrating marketplace role models.
Calling out and addressing substandard marketplace behavior.
Creating a community of trustworthy businesses and charities.

BBB Accredited Businesses must meet BBB Standards for Trust. They have pledged to support the objectives and standards of fair advertising and ethical business practices. Not all businesses qualify for BBB accreditation, so make sure to look for BBB’s seal, which is identified with honesty, trust and excellence. BBB is headquartered in Omaha, located at 11811 P St., and can be contacted directly at (402) 391-7612.

For more information about the Better Business Bureau, please visit bbbinc.org.

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The Avenue Scholars Foundation (www.avenuescholarsfoundation.org) program is designed to prepare well-qualified employees for Omaha’s workforce. We guide students from low-income families from high school, through post-secondary education and training, and into careers.

The key component of the program is the supportive relationship between each Avenue Scholar and a teacher and life coach called a Talent Advisor. Through these established relationships, Talent Advisors help Avenue Scholars develop, navigate, and achieve realistic education and career goals.

The ultimate success of the program lies in our ability to lead our students into financially sustaining careers. We need local businesses to partner with us and provide our students with crucial career-building opportunities that align with their skills and interests.

Please join our effort by providing career exploration, preparation, and placement opportunities for our students. Together, we can help businesses fill specific workforce gaps while providing career opportunities for highly motivated, ready-to-work young adults.

For more information, please call (402) 916-9777, email info@avescholars.org, or visit www.avenuescholarsfoundation.org.

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The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM; www.nonprofitam.org) was formed with one goal in mind: to help nonprofit organizations help their communities.

NAM was incorporated in 2002, and CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen 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 focus their energy to better help the communities and people they serve,” says Hindery.

NAM has 332 members in Nebraska and western Iowa. It’s offering a new, six-week training series called Board Boot Camp. The training program gives new and experienced nonprofit board members the skills and tools they need to successfully implement their organizations’ missions.

Other NAM programs include the Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands, NAM @ Night, and the Nonprofit Executive Institute.

NAM is also recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits.

You can learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.org.

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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 2,000 hot, nutritious meals and provides preventive measures to more than 275 people living in poverty.

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

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With its historic roots established nearly 125 years ago, Child Saving Institute’s (childsaving.org) primary focus has always been children’s safety and well-being. Always an innovative leader in children’s services, our programs now 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, independent living skills education for youth aging out of the foster care system, and older child adoption.

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 2,700 kids and families each year. With your assistance we are improving the lives of children in our community—and helping them to discover the joy of childhood that should be every child’s right.

For more information, visit childsaving.org or call (402) 553-6000.

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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 lifetime.” We empower and equip undereducated and economically disadvantaged men and women through character development, vocational training and real hands-on 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.

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Every year, Greater Omaha SCORE (www.omaha.score.org) volunteers help entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in their existing businesses. Volunteering at SCORE is a way for entrepreneurs and business owners to give back to the community, connect with fellow business owners, and pass on their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Greater Omaha SCORE Chapter is a resource partner with the Small Business Administration and with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce through its “Thrive” initiative for Greater Omaha small businesses.

SCORE volunteers provide confidential business mentoring services. We lead seminars and workshops to help small business owners meet their goals and achieve success. Whether you own your own small business, are working or retired and have a sincere commitment for helping small businesses, there is a place for you as a SCORE volunteer.

We are making a difference by helping new businesses be successful and we want to “help make dreams come true.”

If you need help in starting a business, moving your existing business forward, or you wish to volunteer with us, please contact the Greater Omaha SCORE at (402) 221-3606 or e-mail score@scoreomaha.org. You can also visit our website at www.omaha.score.org.

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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. In the past four years alone, MAYF has been able to provide over 250 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.

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For over 15 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, our pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The Adoptables program provides rescue dogs with obedience training and placement in their forever homes. 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 and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partner.

For more information about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.

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Leadership for Life (LFL; www.lflomaha.org) is a unique leadership development opportunity where professionals learn, practice, and integrate faith-based leadership skills into their personal and professional life. It is designed to maximize personal growth and effectiveness so that participants can positively impact their workplace, home and community.

Leadership for Life wishes to congratulate our 2016 graduates: Matthew Bernard – Capstone Consulting; Robb Clemans – Home Instead Senior Care; Todd Conkright – Cornerstone Solutions; Bryce Curry – Cole Information; Derek Eisan – Youth for Christ; Marla Gernstein – Vetter Health; Rob Johnson – Abide/Bridge Church; Tanisha Lewis – Salem Media; Sara Longcrier – American National Bank; Trevor McClintock – Salvation Army; Miekka Milliken – Vetter Health; Arlene Porzelt – Pinnacle Bank; Dave Price – Bellevue University; John Pryor – Maestro Health; Ashlei Spivey – Heartland Family Service; Julie Thomas – Assure Women’s Center; and Jamie Wallingford – Capstone Consulting.

The 2016/17 cohort begins in September. View the schedule of monthly topics and explore the Leadership for Life program at www.lflomaha.org.

Contact Todd Conkright for more information: tconkright@lflomaha.org or (402) 650-4921.

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Kids Can! Community Center (KidsCanOmaha.org) serves children ages 18-months to 13 years old. Kids Can! offers a wide variety of programs including: early childhood education, childcare, before- and after-school activities, out-of-school programs, tutoring and mentoring. Kids Can! utilizes the Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears programs for young students. School-age children participate in STEM smart activities focused on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, strength, music, art, reading and tutoring. For families and individuals, Kids Can! offers many community-based programs including holiday assistance, free tax assistance, and neighborhood events.

Originally founded in 1908 as Social Settlement Association of Omaha, Kids Can! has a long history of making meaningful impact in the community. Located at 49th & Q Streets in Omaha, Kids Can! Community Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

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

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Kiwanis provides simple volunteer opportunities within the community through a network that is well-suited for the working business professional. Members not only perform service — we have fun! Business connections and friendships form by working together on service projects, attending meetings and enjoying social events. It’s a great setting for meaningful and professional networking.

Our focus is on changing the world by serving; one child and one community at a time—for us that includes taking students to the zoo, volunteering at Special Olympics, AllPlay, Bell Ringing, and more. Meetings include community speakers that educate and inform us of what is happening in Omaha. Check us out as we would love for you to be a part of it!

Contact Shawn Linehan at (402) 934-7887 Ext. 4 to learn more about joining.

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Help save lives. Host a blood drive.

Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB.ORG) needs your help. We are seeking opportunities to partner with communities, organizations, businesses, schools, and places of worship to host blood drives in Omaha and the surrounding communities. We make it easy for you to host a drive—you’ll work closely with a Nebraska Community Blood Bank representative to plan, promote, and recruit prospective blood donors.

Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. Volunteer blood donors can help ensure blood is available for patients in area hospitals.

Visit NCBB.ORG or call (877) 488-9414 to learn more about hosting a blood drive with your local Nebraska Community Blood Bank.

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For 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 30,000 individuals from more than 15 locations in east central Nebraska and southwest Iowa through three program areas: Child & Family, Counseling & Prevention, and Housing & 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.

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The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC; www.midlandslatinocdc.org) values leadership, education and civic responsibility. MLCDC provides Latinos with opportunities to generate economic growth in the Midlands.

Our educational and coaching services include childcare development, micro-business, micro-lending, financial education and computer training. Latina women make up 90 percent of the clients at MLCDC. We have provided ongoing education to 3,060 women in several of our programs. This has created 70 new childcare centers, 156 new businesses and 275 new jobs in the Omaha metro area.

Through our micro-lending program, MLCDC helps small businesses that have no access to bank loans by providing business loans. These initiatives include developing business plans tailored to ongoing management and operations, assisting owners in the preparation of documents necessary to bank loans and/or other financing through micro-lending. MLCDC will become a CDFI during 2017.

For more information please contact Marta Sonia Londoño at (402) 933-4466 or visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org.

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The Pregnancy Center (www.support.pregnancycenterlincoln.org) is a non-profit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O Street. Every month over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers.

Call the Pregnancy Center at (402) 483-4247 or visit www.support.pregnancycenterlincoln.org for more information.

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Angels Among Us – Helping Families Battling Pediatric Cancer

Angels Among Us (www.myangelsamongus.org) is a 501 (c) (3) organization established in 2006 to financially assist families living in or being treated in Nebraska who are battling a pediatric cancer diagnosis. In our ten-year history, we have helped over 270 families with over $1.1 million in support. Families are identified by the social work offices of Nebraska Medicine and Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. Angels Among Us supports families with up to $500 per month with a cap of $5,000.

Through our many events, you can help families living the cancer nightmare right here in our community. Mark your calendar for the 2016 Evening Among Angels Gala, to be held on September 30, 2016 at the Hilton Hotel, downtown Omaha.

To learn more about Angels Among Us and our many events, please call our office at (402) 934-0999 or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

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Bridges to Hope (bridgestohopene.org) in Lincoln is a non-profit agency serving men and women soon to be or recently released from correctional institutions throughout Nebraska. The goal is to help prevent Reentrants from falling back into their criminal behaviors and to lower the recidivism rate. This is done by providing Reentrants with everything they need to start up a new home. Furniture, clothing, household items and hygiene products are a few of the items provided to them at no cost. Bridges to Hope survives off of financial and in-kind donations from community members. We would like people to understand that everyone deserves a second chance and to be forgiven. 95% to 98% of all inmates will be released into our communities. With no job, no money, no treatment, no clothes, no furniture and no place to live, those reentering the community often find themselves facing the same pressures and temptations that landed them in prison in the first place. Bridges to Hope provides them with the second chance needed to begin their new life, free of crime!

For more information about Bridges to Hope, please visit bridgestohopene.org or contact Rhonda Mattingly or Nina Vejnovich by phone at (402) 420-5696 or by email at mattinglyr1@windstream.net or infob2h@windstream.net.

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As Nebraska’s largest employer of the blind and visually impaired, Outlook Nebraska, Inc. (ONI; outlooknebraska.org) is a charitable organization that empowers anyone in the community facing vision loss to gain confidence in their capabilities and achieve their life goals. Through employment, workplace training and recreational and cultural opportunities, ONI provides essential services to enhance the lives of those they serve.

Nearly 70 percent of ONI’s workforce is legally blind and utilizes an array of innovative low vision technologies. Many work on the production floor of ONI’s growing tissue-converting facility, operating machines and packing a commercial line of recycled fiber tissue products. Others work in administrative departments such as sales, accounting and education and training.

In addition to employment, ONI provides Enrichment Programs, including free adaptive technology training and collaborative recreational opportunities, for the visually impaired of all ages. Through community education, ONI 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.

For more information about ONI, visit outlooknebraska.org.

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OneWorld (www.oneworldomaha.org) was built on the belief that every person deserves access to the best possible health care services. That’s why we offer state-of-the-art medical, dental and behavioral health services to everyone, regardless of income or insurance status. Unlike other health organizations, OneWorld offers top-quality, personalized health care to our patients. And we do so in a welcoming environment where anyone can feel comfortable and safe.

You may have heard of OneWorld if your child attends a school where we offer a school-based health center. But you may not know that we have health centers throughout the Omaha area where we provide comprehensive services, including the following:

Adult Medicine
Pediatric Care
Prenatal Care
Women’s Health Care
Behavioral Health Care
Dental Services
Quick Sick Clinics: Urgent Care Services

Visit our website at www.oneworldomaha.org to find a location near you. At OneWorld, everyone can afford the outstanding health care they deserve.

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Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha (CSF; www.csfomaha.org) believes that all families, regardless of income, should be able to choose the best educational setting for their children. CSF provides tuition assistance scholarships so children from low-income families can access the private or parochial K-8 education of their choice. CSF is destination neutral and has no religious affiliation—children attend approximately 80 different schools across Omaha and northeast Nebraska. A crucial piece of the CSF program is the commitment it requires from families. Each CSF family must contribute $500 toward their children’s education and their children must achieve a 90% attendance rate. Since 1999, more than 29,000 scholarships have been awarded and valued at $31 million dollars.

CSF Omaha relies solely upon donations to provide scholarships. If you or your company would like to make a donation or receive more information, please contact the CSF office.

Contact information: Mary Boyle, Annual Giving Manager: mary.boyle@csfomaha.org – (402) 819-4990 – www.csfomaha.org.

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As part of its mission of Supporting and Strengthening Youth, Young Adults and Families, the Omaha Home for Boys (www.omahahomeforboys.org) is committed to providing services to young men and women ages 12-24 through family-style, community-based programs supported by education. As we approach our 100th anniversary in 2020, we will continue to adapt and change to meet the needs of youth and families throughout the community. Our promise began more than 95 years ago – to help youth become productive, independent adults who contribute positively to and responsibly in their community. The Omaha Home for Boys is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization providing services to youth regardless of race, religion or ability to pay and is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Services for Families and Children (COA). The Omaha Home for Boys is designated as a Gold Participant – the highest honor – by Guidestar.

For more information about the the Omaha Home for Boys, please call (402) 457-7000 or visit www.omahahomeforboys.org.

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Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS; www.fhasinc.org) helps families living at or near poverty 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. (FHAS) please visit: www.fhasinc.org or call (402) 934-7921.

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Senior Health Foundation (www.seniorhealthfoundation.org) helps fill the gaps in critical programs for low-income seniors in Omaha through Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. MGI is a non-profit, 501c3 that operates the senior residences of Florence Home Healthcare, Royale Oaks and House of Hope. We have served Omaha seniors for 109 years.

Of the residents in our care, 2/3 are paid by Medicaid, a payer that few organizations are willing to accept due to the disparity between reimbursement and actual cost of care. We couldn’t fulfill our mission without support from the community. We have recently been featured in the Omaha World Herald and on WOWT News for the outstanding care and special services that we provide to our residents. Residents in our care are provided with a warm, inviting and loving home where they often spend the final years of their lives. Our mission is to inspire those we serve to live life to the fullest as they age.

For more information about Senior Health Foundation, please visit www.seniorhealthfoundation.org or call Mark Kresl at (402) 827-6051.

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Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) is a statewide movement using philanthropy as a tool to build stronger, more prosperous communities. NCF is a partner for meeting your charitable goals no matter where you live. It’s the way to give back to your hometown.

Thanks to generous donors, in just the last five years more than $120 million has been reinvested in our schools, hospitals, community centers, libraries, fire and rescue units, parks and recreation, youth programs and our natural environment. Thousands of citizens have enjoyed the arts, earned scholarships and received specialized training to grow local economies in Nebraska communities.

NCF is a charitable giving resource for all Nebraskans, offering donor-advised funds, designated funds, field of interest funds and life income funds which provide many tax benefits. Gifts to your hometown can be made using cash, securities, real estate, insurance, ag commodities, retirement plans, bequests and other assets.

Visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7330 or email info@nebcommfound.org for more information.

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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. In 2016 Santa Monica will be expanding services to include a step down level of care for the women, providing 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.

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At Ted E. Bear Hollow (tedebearhollow.org), we believe no one should have to walk their grief journey alone.

That’s why, since 2001, we’ve been offering a welcoming, safe place where grieving children, teens, and adults can find hope and support from each other.

As the region’s cornerstone for grief support, Ted E. Bear Hollow provides peer support groups, day camps, and overnight retreats as well as training, education, and consultation for professionals. All of Ted E. Bear Hollow’s support programs are free to participants, thus Ted E. Bear Hollow relies heavily on charitable contributions, special event income, and volunteerism.

Research indicates that unresolved grief correlates to issues such as poor school performance and emotional and behavioral concerns, whereas healthy coping leads to long-term successes for children, families, and communities.

Healthy grieving is not just important for the individual and family; it is important for the entire community.

For more information about Ted E. Bear Hollow please visit tedebearhollow.org or call (402) 502-2773.

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The Merrymakers Association (www.merrymakers.org) began providing professional entertainment to area senior homes in 1986 and will be celebrating 30 years serving our greatest generation throughout Nebraska and Iowa.

Merrymakers’ program is a unique service serving 136 care facilities. This includes assisted and long-term living facilities, senior apartments, hospice and senior centers. These programs are scheduled once a month among 20 of our contracted professional musicians to provide live, onsite entertainment to all of these residents, including those with Alzheimer’s and who are in memory care.

Merrymakers is 100% supported through donations, grant funding and our summer “Friend-raiser” – Songs & Suds and our signature Toast event held in November each year. Please join us for two unique evenings of fun and laughter:

Songs & Suds featuring DJ Howie; Honorary Chairs: Mary & Tom Kerr – Thursday, July 28, 6-9 p.m., Old Mattress Factory, 501 N. 13th Street, Omaha, NE.

Merrymakers 26th Annual Toast, Honoring Creighton’s Head Coach Men’s Basketball, Greg McDermott – Thursday, November 10, 2016, 6-9 p.m., Embassy Suites – LaVista.

For tickets and additional information about Merrymakers, visit www.merrymakers.org or call (402) 697-0205.

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Project Harmony (www.projectharmony.com) grew out of the vision of several Omaha community professionals and advocates to create a better system of protection for abused and neglected children. Today, Project Harmony is one of the largest Child Advocacy Centers in the nation. This is not due to an overwhelming volume of child abuse, but due to the level of collaboration that comes together to address the issue – collectively. The Child Advocacy Center model has been replicated to impact child abuse as a best practice community response. When Project Harmony was established in 1996, there were about 35 Centers operating across the United States. Today there are more than 850 – serving a collective 350,000 children each year.

With incredible support of the Omaha community, now more than 200 professionals are co-located under the Project Harmony roof, and are working together to provide abused children the best possible community response. This collaborative approach strives to ensure that children are not further victimized by the systems intended to protect them.

Project Harmony is committed to a vision with a focus on one goal: ending the cycle of child abuse and neglect. Together, we can end child abuse.

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

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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 more than 85 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past fiscal year, more than $580,000 has been distributed into the community through these charitable funds, MCF grants and discretionary gifts in the areas of health care, 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 about the Midlands Community Foundation, visit www.midlandscommunity.org or call (402) 991-8027.

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Supporting Non-Profits in Omaha