Supporting Nonprofits in Omaha – July 2021

At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves. Nebraska’s nonprofit sector provides about 10% of private sector jobs in our state. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.

Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state an even better place to live, and so we also want to bring awareness to their efforts. Our Supporting Nonprofits feature is a place to recognize some of these amazing organizations and the work they’re doing locally. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they’re choosing to give back to Omaha this year. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will have positive ripple effects in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.

We have compiled a list of excellent nonprofits, all of which need and welcome your support, and we encourage you to get involved their events and efforts!

Founded in 1989, BLUEBARN Theatre (bluebarn.org) is dedicated to theatre’s most important tradition: to provoke thought, emotion, action, and change. BLUEBARN has established itself as Omaha’s only professional regional contemporary theatre company. Each year BLUEBARN produces five plays in a season that runs from September through June. Come join BLUEBARN Theatre for Season 33, featuring bold new creations and theatrical events as diverse and surprising as the world we live in. BLUEBARN remains committed, now more than ever, to cheerily subversive experiences that connect us all to our shared humanity. Learn more at bluebarn.org.

The American Heart Association (www.heart.org/Omaha) is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives—devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers: heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5).

Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
Through events right here in Omaha like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit www.heart.org/Omaha.

There are over 38,000 people in Nebraska experiencing infertility. Conceive Nebraska (conceivenebraska.org) is an Omaha-based non-profit whose mission is to come alongside and support individuals and couples facing fertility challenges by increasing and improving educational resources. Our goal is to raise awareness in our community by changing the conversation surrounding infertility through support groups and events. Infertility affects women and men equally. Chances are you know someone who has had difficulty conceiving. Please have them visit our website at conceivenebraska.org and read our blog or follow us on Instagram and Facebook (@ConceiveNebraska)!

Cross Training Center (www.crosstc.com) exemplifies the message “If you feed a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” Their program equips unemployed and undereducated adults through vocational training and work experience. Students learn to overcome barriers to employment caused by challenging backgrounds and circumstances, such as homelessness, incarceration, emotional trauma, and generational poverty.

Cross Training Center believes each person, no matter their past or current circumstances, can be set up for success. Through its four owned businesses––Cross Electronic Recycling, Redeemed Computers, Cross Automotive, and Cross Social Hall––students gain industry-specific skills and soft skills to prepare them for a career path. To learn more, visit www.crosstc.com or call (402) 590-2100.

The Rose Theater (www.rosetheater.org) is committed to enriching the lives of children and families through live theater and arts education. With live performances of plays and musicals specifically for children and a wide range of classes designed to inspire budding performing artists, a lifelong love of theater starts at The Rose.

The Rose is one of the largest and most accomplished children’s theaters in the nation. American Theatre magazine named The Rose one of the top 20 children’s theaters in the country. The theater presents a variety of family-friendly productions on its main stage each year. The Rose’s First Stage series features plays specifically for very young children in a smaller, shush-free, sensory-friendly environment. In addition, students from age two to 18 can participate in performing arts classes such as creative drama, dance, musical theater, acting, voice, and more. For more information, visit www.rosetheater.org or call (402) 345-4849.

Kids Can Community Center’s (KidsCan.org) mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences. Kids Can serves children ages 18 months to 13 years old. They 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 for their 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.
For more information about Kids Can Community Center, visit KidsCan.org, call (402) 731-6988, or email jgillman@kidscan.org.

Nebraska Children’s Home Society (NCHS, nchs.org) is a private, nonprofit agency with eight locations across the state. NCHS has been putting children first for 127 years. The founding of NCHS was part of a national movement that resulted in the founding of Children’s Home Societies in 36 states between 1883 and 1916. Although the challenges have changed over the years, children still come into the world vulnerable and facing risks. NCHS continually evaluates and adjusts services to address children’s needs. As a mature organization, NCHS is ready to make bold strides to serve children and families like never before.

From education for young children, adolescents, parents and caregivers, to adoption, foster care, and ongoing support, Nebraska Children’s Home Society offers a comprehensive range of quality services. Each resource is offered by highly trained, compassionate professionals, and together they represent an entire continuum of care—an ever-evolving network of services designed to meet the needs of children and families at every stage of life. To learn more, visit nchs.org or call (402) 451-0787.

Many Omaha children and families are struggling with the devastating effects of multiple crises and trauma. Thus, the mission of Release (www.releaseinc.org) is to affect these youth and their families with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ, helping them to become…Safe, Together, Healthy, and Free. They do so by providing an array of services in four areas of focus.

Mentoring: Connecting caring adults with youth seeking positive influences.
Foster Care: Providing loving homes for the most vulnerable in our community.
Social Work: Helping families navigate the system to find restoration.
Mental Health: Bringing healing and wholeness to individuals and families.

Release is a member of the National Family Preservation Network, and all their workers are trained specifically in cultural competency and crisis intervention management.
Opportunities for helping Release transform lives in our community include volunteering as a mentor, becoming a foster parent, joining Friends of Release for monthly projects helping families, and becoming a monthly financial supporter. For more information, call (402) 455-0808, email info@releaseinc.org, or visit www.releaseinc.org.

People living with vision loss get the skills and resources they need to lead independent, fully engaged lives from the Outlook Enrichment (outlooken.org/donate) programs you fund. Using computers and smartphones without vision becomes easy with technology training from Outlook. Recreational, cultural, and social activities become possible again with a few adaptations. Those new to vision loss—whether their own or a loved one’s—find practical and emotional support from Outlook during their transition.

Outlook Enrichment’s mission is to create opportunities for people living with vision loss to achieve personal and professional growth in an inclusive community. We help our neighbors living with vision loss and blindness live life independently, confidently engage in their communities, and continue to do the things they love.

Your gifts help us change the outcomes for our neighbors living with vision loss and blindness. Help us celebrate that there is vision beyond sight for each of them. Easily make a donation at outlooken.org/donate.

NALA (nalarescue.org) is a 100% volunteer-based organization steadfast in its commitment to changing the way society thinks about animals, animal rescues, and the impact animals have on humans. They strive to match homeless animals with people who can provide loving homes where both will enjoy the benefits of this companionship.

NALA provides all vaccinations, heartworm testing, spays/neuters, and microchipping. From rehoming healthy felines and canines to caring for the sickest of the sick, NALA is there! Besides routine care, they do so much more such as bottle-feeding newborns, treating illnesses like parvo, distemper, heartworm, ringworm, surgeries, and behavior training/support.

In addition to monetary donations, NALA needs foster homes, event volunteers, transporters, etc. They need it all! They hope that someday there will not be a need for their animal services for the sick, neglected, abused, and unwanted, but until that day, NALA will be there with open homes, hearts, and arms. To learn more, visit nalarescue.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 700 nonprofit members 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 (nonprofitam.org/GuidelinesandPrinciples) 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 or call (402) 557-5800.

Wear Yellow Nebraska (WearYellowNebraska.org) provides service, support, and community for Nebraska’s cancer survivors. Their purpose, from the very beginning, is to bring together people passionate about cycling, celebrating life, and being an advocate in the fight against cancer. Since the organization’s beginning days, Wear Yellow Nebraska has continued to grow and cultivate their mission and vision. In 2012, they launched a free transportation program, which has directed more than $220,000 dollars in providing more than 13,800 cab rides to cancer patients in need.

The Wear Yellow Cab Ride program, Powered by Lyft, is the primary initiative of the organization and is funded by their signature event, the Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk. Transportation to and from treatment is essential because patients are often unable to drive themselves, which also leaves them vulnerable to additional medical challenges. Even when patients have family and friends who can help, they are not always available and sometimes they just don’t want to ask for one more thing.

Wear Yellow Nebraska touches lives in Lincoln, Omaha, and Fremont—help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org.

The General Crook House Museum, managed and maintained by the Douglas County Historical Society (www.douglascohistory.org), is a restored Italianate style mansion, built in 1879. The house was built for Gen. George Crook, commander of the Army’s Dept. of the Platte and served as officers’ quarters. Today, the house has been restored as a period museum, giving visitors the chance to step back into Omaha’s frontier past and see how the house might have looked in the Victorian age. Guests in the Museum will learn about the house’s architectural features, Fort Omaha’s unique military history, and the story of Chief Standing Bear, who was held at the Fort before his historic trial.

Visit the Museum, amble the house and garden, or sit in the parlor or reception rooms. The Crook House is a Museum, but it’s also a home and the Douglas County Historical Society takes great pride in welcoming guests personally and making them feel they are a part of the House’s story. To learn more about tours or renting the Museum for your next event, visit www.douglascohistory.org or call (402) 455-9990.

Angels Among Us (www.myangelsamongus.org) is celebrating 15 years of impact in 2021! Angels Among Us provides financial assistance to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families are provided with $500 a month for the length of their entire treatment plan, up to three years, to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life as they know it comes to an abrupt halt. Unfortunately, their monthly expenses do not. Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 510 families with nearly $3 million in support.

There are angels among us. Will you be one? 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 the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.

Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center (stephencenter.org) partners with the community, families, and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction, and poverty. Approximately 250 people call Stephen Center home each day through three programs on a sober campus. The Pettigrew Emergency Shelter serves men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. The HERO Program (Health, Empowerment, Responsibility, and Opportunity) is a nationally-accredited, state-licensed substance abuse treatment, and mental health services program providing substance abuse evaluations, in patient services, and intensive outpatient treatment. The third program is Permanent Supportive Housing apartments. These apartments provide affordable housing for those that meet income and disability qualifications. All Stephen Center clients have the support of case managers who assist them with the identification of barriers impeding self-sufficiency. Volunteers play a huge role in Stephen Center’s mission, impacting client lives every day! For more information, visit stephencenter.org or follow on Facebook (@stephencenteromaha).

The Aksarben Foundation (www.aksarben.org) is a unified network of business and community leaders committed to preserving and expanding prosperity in our heartland communities through advancements in education, workforce development, and civic projects born from effective private, public, and philanthropic partnerships. Since 1895, Aksarben has been bringing Nebraska’s civic-minded families together to celebrate and recognize the spirit of giving in our state with the Aksarben Ball. While the event raises money for the mission and initiatives of Aksarben, the purpose of the event is to convene and honor families committed to the wellbeing of Nebraska. It is no secret that the past, present, and future success of Nebraska depends on the civic engagement of its citizens. Each year, the highest honor recognized by Aksarben is that of Nebraska’s “Most Honored Citizen(s)”, in which a man, woman, or couple is celebrated for their contributions to the betterment and continued prosperity of Nebraska for all citizens. To learn more about the Aksarben Foundation, contact info@aksarben.org / (402) 554-9600 or go online to www.aksarben.org.

Youth Emergency Services (YES, www.yesomaha.org) is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help youth experiencing homelessness and near-homelessness in the community. Last year, YES provided support and services to more than 1,000 youth in the Omaha metro. YES also provided 4,338 meals to youth through their Street Outreach Center and Mobile Pantry during the pandemic. 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 the Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, Maternity Group Home and Rapid Rehousing. Through these programs, YES offers case management, job readiness classes, group activities, support for the LGBTQ+ community and specialized services for trafficked survivors. To ensure youth are successful once they leave their care, YES requires the youth 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 or call (402) 345-5187. You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Did you know…Midlands Community Foundation (MCF, www.midlandscommunity.org) helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals and “Invest in the Power of Community.”
MCF plays an integral part in the community by serving Sarpy and Cass counties in the areas of health, arts, community, economic development, education, and human services. For example, MCF:

Helps provide shelter for the homeless and stocks shelves at local food banks;
Underwrites scholarships for college-bound students;
Maintains and supports local libraries;
Updates parks and recreational areas;
Provides new technology for schools and nonprofit organizations;
Treats school children to educational field trips
Support STEM initiatives; and
Assists in emergency disaster relief for affected victims.

In addition, MCF manages 150 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past year, more than $1.3 million has been distributed into the community through these charitable funds, MCF grants, and discretionary gifts. Learn more at www.midlandscommunity.org.

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.

Established in 1972, Santa Monica House (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 12-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 three-quarters way house program and transitional apartment living. This approach to step-down levels of care for the women provides 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 Santa Monica’s new website at www.santamonicahouse.org for more information about the agency, what the future holds, and how to help.

Vision Maker Media (VMM, visionmakermedia.org) is the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans since 1976. Our mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. We envision a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. We work with VMM funded producers to develop, produce and distribute programs for all public media. VMM supports training to increase the number of American Indians and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs. A key strategy for this work is in partnerships with Tribal nations, Indian organizations and Native communities. Reaching the national public and a global market is the ultimate goal for the dissemination of Native public media that shares Native perspectives with the world.

Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) funded in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), For more information visit visionmakermedia.org.

Child Saving Institute (CSI, childsaving.org) is dedicated to the prevention, intervention and healing of childhood abuse, neglect and trauma. Since its beginning more than 129 years ago, CSI’s primary focus has always been children’s safety and well-being. As an innovative leader in children’s services, CSI’s programs include an Emergency Shelter for youth in crisis, quality Early Childhood Education, consultation services for low-income childcare centers, Foster Care services, foster parent training, Mental Health Services including Pediatric & Adolescent Therapy and Medication Management Services, In-Home Services for struggling families, Pediatric Social Work services in local low-income medical clinics, Independent Living Skills (ILS)education for youth aging out of the foster care system, free parenting workshops, and adoption services. The agency also operates the Triage Center at Project Harmony, providing a comfortable environment, food, and new clothing to children who have been abruptly removed from their homes in crisis.

CSI’s programs are diverse and continue to adjust to the current needs of children and families in the Omaha community. With your support, CSI serves more than 2,800 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, improving children’s lives—helping them discover the joy of childhood that every child should experience. For more information, visit childsaving.org or call (402) 553-6000. Stay connected with CSI by following the organization on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

With Best Care EAP (www.bestcareeap.org) as a business partner, you can provide support to help employees focus on their jobs when problems in their personal lives get overwhelming. Best Care EAP provides a wide variety of wellness and online services that will boost your employees’ productivity and morale. All of their services can be tailored to meet the individual needs of your company.

Professional development opportunities—Best Care EAP offers over 100 training programs in areas of management/leadership, physical/mental well-being, team development and professional/personal growth – all offering the flexibility to be offered at your worksite, virtually or pre-recorded. Customized training options available to you based on your organization’s needs.

Counseling for a wide variety of issues, concerns, and stressors—Their licensed counselors provide one-on-one, couple, and family counseling close to your work or home, plus telehealth options.

Professional help coping with a critical situation—For over 40 years, Best Care EAP has provided immediate support for members during times of crisis. Whether caused by an unexpected injury or death, crime, or environmental/societal impact, Best Care EAP is available to you and your employees with immediate support following a critical incident.

If you are interested in learning more about Best Care EAP or have questions about their services, visit www.bestcareeap.org , call (402) 354-8000 / (800) 801-4182, or email at EAP@BestCareEAP.org.

OHB (Omaha Home for Boys, OHB.org) has been transforming lives and strengthening communities for more than 100 years! What began as a home for wayward and neglected boys has grown to an organization serving more than 1,100 youth, young adults, children, and families annually.

OHB’s continuum of care is aimed at empowering individuals and families with the skills and confidence needed to transition from a state of crisis to one of safety and growth. OHB’s programs focus on helping clients achieve self-sufficiency and offer support in the areas of basic life skills, education, employment, housing, transportation, and behavioral and mental health.
As OHB enters its next century, the organization’s commitment to adapt and grow to meet the ever-changing needs of the community continues, thanks to supporters like you. “Together, we can transform a life and strengthen our community!” Learn more at OHB.org or call (402) 457-7000.

The Salvation Army of Omaha (salarmyomaha.org) is a faith-based nonprofit organization with a mission to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Its three community centers – Omaha Citadel Corps, Omaha North Corps and the Omaha Kroc Center – as well as the Burrows Center and Renaissance Village, are uniquely situated to meet the diverse needs of our metro-area neighborhoods. From after-school programs and summer camps to food pantries and behavioral health programs that support those struggling with mental illness, The Salvation Army of Omaha sustains the bodies, minds and spirits of our most vulnerable neighbors, helping those in need more than 200,000 times each year.

Monetary donations help to fund The Salvation Army’s social services programs – including food, housing, material assistance, youth development, older adult services, behavioral health, anti-human trafficking and disaster services. For more information or to make a donation, please visit salarmyomaha.org.

Open Door Mission 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 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women, and children; serves over 4,747 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 the community.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF (jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa) works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, our mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering, or fundraising.
Events:

JDRF One Walk – October 10, 2021
JDRF Gala – April 2, 2022

Programs:

Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies.
Support/Networking Groups (virtual until further notice)
– JDRF T1D Talk – Connecting the T1D community – individuals and families, 2nd Tuesday of every month
– Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community, 2nd Thursday of every month
Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities.
Outreach – Resources and events for individuals and families.
Ride – Fundraise through cycling for all fitness levels.
YLC – Young professionals raising awareness and funds for T1D.

Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or (402) 397-2873.

Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF, NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.

Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving 270 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 45,313 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $393.1 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

The mission of the Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation (www.jehfoundation.org) is to improve the quality of life by caring for the body and mind. Jennie Edmundson Foundation is the fundraising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson (MJE) Hospital. By engaging philanthropic leaders, they are able to help make certain that the equipment, facilities, programs, services, and educational initiatives at JE continue to meet community needs.

The JE Foundation relies on donations and grants from the community. These funds help their COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, Cancer Center, Cardiac Center, Women’s Services, Charitable Patient Care Fund, Medi-Bus Transportation, and Scholarship Funds, to name a few. Generous contributions provide care, education and services to many who may not otherwise have access to healthcare services. Individual or planned gifts, memorials, or becoming an event, corporate sponsor or year-end donor are also a few ways to help.

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

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

Christian Record Services, Inc. (www.christianrecord.org), located in Lincoln, is a ministry of compassion of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to children and adults who are blind, with nearly 18,000 members throughout the United States and in countries around the world. Our mission is to empower people who are blind to engage their communities and embrace the Blessed Hope.

Christian Record Services offers an array of services and programs, including Bible study lessons, books, magazines, and Bibles in audio, braille, and large print from a library of more than 2,000 titles. Members also have the opportunity to deepen social, educational, and spiritual connections through PhoneFaith, scholarships for higher education, and National Camps for Blind Children.
These services and programs are free of charge to people who are legally blind, regardless of denomination or church affiliation.

For more information, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or email info@christianrecord.org. You can also request a card to share with someone who is legally blind at bitly/CRSBshare.

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 support the purchase of a new K9 as well as protective gear for the horses of the Mounted Patrol. One hundred percent (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.

Autism Action Partnership (autismaction.org) serves Nebraska’s autism community through targeted programs that promote support, inclusion, and prosperity.

SUPPORT: We are committed to connecting individuals and families to needed resources over their lifespan, offering services (like Project Lifesaver) to enhance the safety of those with autism, and helping to cultivate a strong social network through Making Memories events and the AAP Guild.

INCLUSION: Our inclusion efforts aim to create more understanding and increased opportunities for the autism community to live enriched lived. AAP provides comprehensive trainings to businesses and partners on how to support and welcome individuals with autism and their loved ones.

PROSPERITY: We help to answer the question of “what’s next” as autistic individuals enter adulthood. Through our Prosper Workforce Services program, we meet the needs of employers and participants by matching individuals to positions that meet their interests and address employers’ needs, while providing necessary support and training.

To learn more about Autism Action Partnership, visit autismaction.org or call (402) 763-8830.

Do Space (dospace.org/summer) is a free, one-of-a-kind technology space, digital workshop, and experimental playground, designed to tackle the digital divide in Omaha. We help boost digital skills and drive innovation, creativity, and invention in the region. It’s more than just a building—it’s a community technology movement. At Do Space, Omahans have access to powerful fiber internet, Wi-Fi, high-end computers and devices, 3D printers, and technology-focused learning opportunities.

Are you looking for free, tech-related, hands-on activities for youth this summer? If so, the Do Space Summer Passport Program is right for you. Come pick up your free summer passport for ages 3-13, and create fireworks in a jar, LED key chains, light up magic wands, and more. The Summer Passport Program is in full swing so come and join us! Learn more at dospace.org/summer or call (402) 819-4022. Do Space is located at 7205 Dodge St. Omaha, NE 68114.

Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO, Alomaha.org) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization whose members identify, develop, implement, and fund ongoing philanthropic programs to serve specific needs of local children and adults in the Greater Omaha area. ALO has purchased and is remodeling a new building to use as offices, meeting areas, and a new thrift shop. Plans are to open in late summer and then donations will be welcomed and ALO invites shoppers to visit the best thrift shop in Omaha. Please keep watch for the opening announcements. The Thrift Shop helps to support ALO’s signature programs, which are Operation School Bell®, Assault Survivor Kits®, Operation Recovery, Operation Bear Hug, Operation Teen Parent, Operation Literacy, and ACT/PSAT Review Sessions. Donations and grants are appreciated.

Assistance League® of Omaha’s new address is 8502 West Center Rd., and their team can be contacted by calling (402) 342-4288. Learn more online at Alomaha.org or go to the Facebook page (@assistomaha).

The mission of Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC, www.midlandslatinocdc.org) is to provide low- and moderate-income individuals and families with opportunities and tools to achieve financial stability through entrepreneurship.

MLCDC is a nonprofit organization that focuses on teaching Latinos and refugees leadership skills to create diverse and inclusive businesses. MLCDC focuses on enhancing the life of individuals in the Midlands while reducing poverty and increasing economic growth in local communities.

MLCDC’s programs and services are provided in Spanish, English, and Arabic and cover areas of financial stability, industry training, entrepreneurship and leadership, and lending. The lending program provides business loans to entrepreneurs that are unable to secure capital from financial institutions to start or expand their businesses.

During 2020, MLCDC has benefited more than 200 families and impacted more than 500 individuals in Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs through financial education and business planning, enabling successful entrepreneurship. To learn more, visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org or call (402) 933-4466.

The Rose House (www.TheRoseHouseInc.org/diaper-registration) exists to encourage, empower and prepare single mothers for life self-sustainability through mentorship and teaching. At the onset of COVID, The Rose House opened its diaper pantry to the public and provide FREE diapers, diaper wipes and formula to single mothers in the community. The Rose House is currently located inside The Westroads Mall, 10000 California St., Omaha, NE 68114, on the main level in the Southwest Corner of the mall. If you know a single mother who can benefit from their services, please have them register online at www.TheRoseHouseInc.org/diaper-registration.

Embracing God’s call, Mosaic in Omaha (www.mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/omaha) relentlessly pursues opportunities to empower people. Even in this pandemic, they’ve not only worked to keep people safe and healthy, they’ve found creative ways to keep people engaged and active.

As a whole-person healthcare organization, Mosaic knows the importance of looking at all areas of a person’s life to help them experience optimal health. Thanks to their dedicated employees and contractors, the nearly 250 people we serve have continued to learn new skills, engage in safe outdoor activities and virtual visits with family and friends, and participate in virtual worship if they chose to.

You’re invited to learn more about Mosaic by attending one of their virtual Discover the Possibilities events. There, you’ll hear personal stories of those we serve told by the people closest to them. Contact Executive Director Nicholas Batterton at nic.batterton@mosaicinfo.org or visit www.mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/omaha.

NAMI Omaha (namiomaha.org) is a nonprofit corporation composed of peers, 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 mental illness. 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.

NAMI Omaha offers periodic classes of one of NAMI’s signature programs, including their Family to Family 12-week evidence-based educational course for family, significant others, and friends of people with mental health conditions.

NAMI Omaha also offers support groups for both peers, family, significant others, and friends of people with mental health conditions. The Connections support groups is another NAMI signature program and offers support for peers with mental health conditions.

NAMI Omaha also hosts monthly affiliate meetings where speakers are invited to speak about current mental health issues in the community, including active state legislature bills, mental health services, alternative forms of mental health treatment, etc.

Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP, www.encapnebraska.org) is a nonprofit community based organization that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty since 1965. Last year, ENCAP provided more than 32,000 services to 14,407 people living in 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, family well-being via community response, senior well-being, hunger relief (via Omaha and Bellevue Food Pantries) transportation For more information, please visit www.encapnebraska.org.

What began as a mother’s wish to offer a playful respite for her daughter fighting brain cancer has now become a movement to reclaim the innocence and playfulness of childhood for those threatened by the realities of their medical conditions. Bags of Fun (bagsoffun.org) are an essential tool that brings the power of play and distraction from pain into the lives of children fighting a life-threatening illness. Each bag of happiness is individually crafted to provide joy, laughter, and relief to children in the fight of their lives—inspiring pediatric patients to be kids and play while they struggle through tough treatments.

It was Gabby Krause’s wish that every child at the hospital could have their own Bag of Fun, and it is an honor to carry out her wish! Bringing a sense of normalcy, especially during these times, is something everyone could benefit from.

Since beginning in Omaha in September 2019, Bags of Fun has delivered over 130 Bags of Fun to kids! The nonprofit is excited for what the future has to hold, especially with the immense support they have already experienced in the community. “The body cannot heal without PLAY, the mind cannot heal without LAUGHTER, the heart cannot heal without COMMUNITY.” Visit bagsoffun.org to learn more about the Bags of Fun mission.

The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council (nesafetycouncil.org) is simple: For more than 60 years, they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line.

Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and well-being program is customized for their needs and size.

Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance, and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies.

The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more.

The mission of the American Red Cross (redcross.org) is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters from home fires to major events such as hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. About 40% of the nation’s blood needed by patients is supplied by the Red Cross. The organization teaches skills such as CPR and First Aid that save lives. Additionally, the Red Cross provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members, veterans, and their families.

Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) RED-CROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood.

The Malone Community Center (MaloneCenter.org) was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban league. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African Americans were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community.

For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors, and the Lincoln community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold their mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy, and leadership development.

For more information about the Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM, 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 youth’s biggest possible futures.

This summer we are launching our newest mentoring program: Mentor U. MentorU is a school-based mentoring program that provides screened and trained volunteer mentors to high school youth enrolled in an academic enrichment class to keep students on track for graduation and success. The objective is to help high school students develop personal, academic, and career skills. MentorU gives those who may not have time for community-based mentoring a meaningful volunteer opportunity to positively impact the life of a youth in their community. Head to bbbsomaha.org to learn more!

The Hope Center for Kids (hopecenterforkids.com) started with a vision in the heart of a father who saw the need for hope in the lives of kids who could not see beyond their circumstances. Today, 22 years after the late Pastor Ty Schenzel opened the doors, The Hope is home to multiple learning spaces, a commercial kitchen and cafeteria, basketball gym, the Hope Skate roller rink, COX STEM Lab and more.

Youth ages 5–19 are offered identity-based programming and a safe place to play and grow. High school students also have the opportunity to apply and interview for The Hope Employment & Learning Academy, a program that prepares youth for successful employment.

Join The Hope vision to help give kids in North Omaha the support to graduate from high school and develop a plan for the future, while experiencing the love of Jesus. Go to hopecenterforkids.com or call (402) 341-4673.

FAMILY, Inc. (www.familyia.org) is an early childhood and public health organization with a mission for empowering families to build a strong foundation and healthy future through education, advocacy, support, and community connection. When parents are empowered and children have the nurturing and support they need, their chances of positively contributing to society as an adult increase.

FAMILY, Inc. provides the right supports and services for each child at the earliest stages of development, prenatally through age five, preparing children to enter school ready to learn. Through early developmental assessment, oral health education, and screening, support to pregnant moms, parenting home visits, care coordination, connections to hawki health insurance, fostering informal support networks, and more, FAMILY, Inc. partners with each family leading to more successful outcomes decades later. What better investment for the future can a community make?
To learn more, visit www.familyia.org or call (712) 256-9566. FAMILY, Inc. can also be found on Facebook (@familyincia), Twitter (@FAMILYIowa), LinkedIn (@familyinc), and YouTube (FAMILYonYouTube).

Many people know Goodwill Industries, Inc. (GoodwillOmaha.org), Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, as a place to donate used clothing and household items or find great bargains, but you might not know the mission at the heart of our organization: Goodwill provides job training and placement services to people with disabilities and other disadvantages.

The sale of donated items sold in Goodwill retail stores supports mission programs. Here’s how: People in the community donate gently used items to Goodwill. Goodwill sells those donated items in our retail stores. The proceeds from those sales subsidize mission programs, giving thousands of individuals in the Omaha area the chance to earn a living, discover independence, and succeed in life.

Goodwill provides opportunities through a variety of employment programs, including YouthBuild AmeriCorps, Employment Solutions, and Work Experience. Goodwill is also affiliated with the federal AbilityOne program, which provides jobs at federal facilities to people with severe disabilities.

Goodwill is a private, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency governed by a local board of trustees. It is a member agency of Goodwill Industries International of Gaithersburg, Maryland, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

At the Heartland Hope Mission (heartlandhopemission.org) South Omaha and Millard food pantries, working poor families choose a week’s supply of nutritious groceries including milk, frozen meat, and fresh produce to prepare well-balanced meals at home. However, Heartland Hope Mission is more than a pantry. Clients also receive clothing, hygiene items, diapers, and access to a Client Service Specialist who assists with SNAP (food stamp) applications and navigational services. The Mission’s Jobs Paths Program provides access to current job postings and on-site interviews with employers. The goal is to provide programming and wraparound services to prevent families from becoming homeless and to help people achieve or rebuild self-sufficiency. Due to COVID-19, Heartland Hope Mission is now serving almost double the amount of families compared to last year. Learn more at heartlandhopemission.org or call (402) 733-1904.

Supporting Nonprofits in Omaha – July 2021