Supporting Nonprofits
COVID-19 has placed an enormous burden on local nonprofits. Over the past several months, Omaha nonprofits have been forced to shut down their events and fundraisers while also suffering heavy losses in their volunteer count. While most organizations have embodied that Nebraska heartiness, cheerily vowing to continue doing their good work for the community, it has nevertheless injured their efforts. According to a survey of 231 Nebraska nonprofits conducted by Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), these nonprofits have collectively lost over $42 million since the pandemic started in March. The late April poll revealed that 81% of Nebraska nonprofits have had to significantly alter their budgets to adjust for the economic impact, and 74% reported that the burden disrupted their services to clients and communities.
Nebraska boasts a rich network of nonprofits that add vibrancy and life to our communities and neighborhoods. While COVID-19 has hurt us all in various ways, the nonprofits that selflessly work to keep Nebraska a safer, kinder, and more artistic place have suffered the worst. Studies show that when economic turmoil hits, nonprofits feel the hurt immediately, and they stay down for longer. This means that these nonprofits that make Nebraska Nebraska may run stagnant if we as a community don’t pitch in to lift them up.
We were very encouraged to see the outpouring of generosity this year during Omaha Gives! on May 20. In fact, the donor response hit a record high with 23,375 individuals giving a total of $8.5 million through 65,160 donations to 1,010 nonprofits.
At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of fellow Nebraskans and work to help support causes many of us connect to. 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. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.
Even though many of us as businesspeople have also suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we can still do our part to help the community by investing in our nonprofits in any way we can. It’s important to remember that a business doesn’t have to donate a large sum of money or time in order to make a difference. Hosting fundraisers, participating in a donation drive, even volunteering for a few hours can do wonders to help others and also connect you and your business with others that are making a difference in your community. Not only does giving to a nonprofit help Nebraska and the people who live here, but it will also help your business by building relationships, producing publicity, and opening the door to networking opportunities!
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. In our Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re choosing to highlight all the amazing things they’ve done and the news they’re choosing to share with everyone throughout the year. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they’re choosing to give back to Omaha this year, as they’re doing astounding things for our city. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will make a positive influence in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.
We’d love to extend a formal thank you to all of the following nonprofits, and applaud them for their work to keep helping Nebraska despite the economic hardship many of them have faced during COVID-19. These nonprofits continue working tirelessly to make Nebraska a better place to live, and we at Strictly Business are so happy to support them.
We have compiled a list of excellent nonprofits, all of which need and welcome your support, and encourage you to get involved with these organizations!
(Click on a thumbnail below to jump to an organization or continue scrolling to read about each)
OHB (Omaha Home for Boys) has been transforming lives and strengthening the community for 100 years! What began as an orphanage for wayward and neglected boys has grown to an organization serving more than 1,300 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.
At the Heartland Hope Mission 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) 733-2077.
You probably know that when a worker is injured on the job, workers’ compensation pays the medical expenses and lost wages. What you may not know is that workers’ compensation does not take into account the costs of post-secondary education for children of the injured worker. Often, families who have suffered such a tragedy are forced to care for the injured individual and do not have the funding to send their children to college.
Kids’ Chance of Nebraska’s mission is to provide scholarships to children whose parents have suffered a workplace injury or death. They want to do what their name suggests: Give the kids a chance. One way they accomplish this is through their annual Kids’ Chance Golf Outing. This year’s event is currently scheduled for August 27 at Iron Horse Golf Club in Ashland.
Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Eligible students and families are encouraged to go to kidschanceofne.org for information, no matter the age of the children. If you are interested in making a donation, go to www.kidschanceofne.org/make-a-donation.
Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center 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 mission of the Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation 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 go to help their Cancer Center, Cardiac Center, Women’s Services, Charitable Patient Care Fund, Medi-Bus Transportation, and Scholarship Funds, to name a few. Generous contributions provide education, care, and services to many who may not otherwise have access to healthcare services. Individual or planned gifts, memorials, or becoming an event or corporate sponsor are also a few ways to help.
Becoming a 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.
Did you know…Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) 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 area of health care, arts, culture, community, economic development, education, and human services. For example, MCF:
- Helps provide shelter for the homeless and stocks shelves at the local food banks;
- Underwrites scholarships for collegebound 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; and
- Supports and assists in emergency disaster relief for affected victims.
In addition, MCF manages 140 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.
To learn more, visit www.midlandscommunity.org or call (402) 991-8027.
CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) is a local, donor-designation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities since 1972. Through workplace partnerships, they promote charitable giving, employee engagement and wellness, and connect people with health causes they care about.
Formerly Community Health Charities of Nebraska, CHAD works with United Way of the Midlands through a contractual agreement. Donors who give so generously every year ensure CHAD’s 21 member charities are funded on a consistent basis, and 100% of donor-designated dollars go directly to full-member charities. Valuable donations help Nebraskans in need by providing care and support for those affected by a health diagnosis, funding education and prevention programs in the community, and supporting advocacy and medical research.
Omaha Office: 212 S. 74th St., STE 205 | (402) 614-8500 | www.chadnebraska.org | Social media: @CHADNebraska
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.
The mission of the Veterans in Business Forum (VIBF) is to provide business support, education, and advocacy to help veterans succeed in business and increase community awareness of veteran-owned business activities. Veterans, active duty, reservists, and civilians are welcome to join and support each other and veteran-related goals.
The VIBF meets the first Friday of every month (0800-0900) and serves the Omaha area. However, the group is meeting virtually during the pandemic. Please email info@littlemountainwebdesign.com for details.
Speakers may be from VIBF members, business groups, veteran groups, NBDC, PTAC, SBA, SCORE, or private sector and government agencies on a wide range of topics. VIBF encourages collaboration through networking. Each month, members can bring up issues and concerns to discuss with the group to get recommendations to help come up with effective solutions.
Contact VIBF to learn more by calling Michel Thornhill at (402) 932-7243. Mailing Address: VIBF c/o Little Mountain Web Design, P.O. Box 461235, Papillion, NE.
The mission of the American Red Cross 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.
Quest Forward Academy is an independent, forward-thinking high school that prioritizes skills along with mastery of academics, empowering success well beyond high school. The Academy uses an intentionally designed digital curriculum that allows students to learn wherever they are without missing a beat. Whether your student is learning in the classroom or at home, they won’t slip through the cracks.
At Quest Forward Academy, students also benefit from:
- 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio,
- A strong, welcoming community
- Project-based learning,
- Curriculum with real-world relevance,
- Mentoring and a personalized pace,
- And 10 years of personalized college and career counseling.
Full and partial scholarships are still available for the 2020-21 school year. Discover for yourself what a forward-thinking education looks like.
To learn more, contact Director of Recruitment Lauren Dombrowski at lauren@questforward.academy or visit www.questforward.academy/omaha.
Rejuvenating Women is a nonprofit organization providing hope and restoration to victims and survivors of human trafficking by empowering survivors to lead healthy, independent lives. They are committed to developing long-lasting relationships with the girls and women who are deeply traumatized. They raise awareness of human trafficking in Omaha and surrounding communities. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers invest in the lives of each individual living in the recovery residential home as well as those participating in other programs and services that they offer.
Rejuvenating Women believes in a multidisciplinary team approach and tailoring the best possible care for each survivor and prevention of future human trafficking. Rejuvenating Women also uses curriculum integration which focuses primarily on the different disciplines and the diverse perspectives they bring to illustrate a topic, theme, or issue. Rejuvenating Women’s short and long-term residential recovery program is free-of-charge to survivors.
Types of programs and services offered:
- Tier 1, Short-Term Housing — A multitude of services including case management for new short-term transitional housing assistance for up to 90-days.
- Tier 2, Long-Term Housing — Residential therapeutic program includes, but is not limited to individual and group therapy, case management, mentorship, legal services, tattoo branding removal, equine therapy, occupational therapy services, life-skills classes, and receive comprehensive medical care. This tier requires a commitment to the program for 18–24 months.
- Mentoring Program — One-to-one mentorship program that includes an individualized healthy relationship-building approach.
- Virtual Case Consultation — Created during the COVID-19 crisis. Case Consultation is done virtually for those unable to physically attend the Rejuvenating Women program.
Learn more about Rejuvenating Women online at rejuvenatingwomen.com or call 1-(800) 402-0601.
The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands 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.
To learn about how to become a Big, make a donation, or other ways to get involved, go to bbbsomaha.org or follow on social media.
The Rose Theater 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. In 2016, 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.
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 450 families with over $2 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.
Established in 1972, Santa Monica House 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.
The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum mission is to preserve the history of Strategic Air Command, the Cold War, and aerospace artifacts; and to inspire learning through imaginative, innovative, and inspirational programs and exhibits.
The Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Smithsonian Affiliate. The Museum is not funded by any government source, relying on the community to help carry out its mission.
The Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Cold War aircraft and artifacts in the U.S. Visitors can view iconic aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft as well as learn about historic leaders and events.
The Museum offers free public tours, family events, an interactive Children’s Learning Center, and educational programs. The Museum’s Education Team and STEM programming supplements public education with field trips, camps, and monthly workshops.
Looking for a thrill? Check out the Museum’s flight simulator or visit their latest temporary exhibit, QUEST! Navigating The World, featuring 20 interactive kiosks exploring travel by land, air, and sea.
There is something for everyone at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Just off I-80 at Exit 426, between Lincoln and Omaha. Learn more about the Museum’s events, rental spaces, membership, and summer camps at SACMuseum.org.
Wear Yellow Nebraska 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 $150,000 dollars in providing more than 9,300 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, Wear Yellow Ride, 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 Omaha, Fremont, and Lincoln—help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org.
Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance (OHKA; omahahealthykids.org) is a children’s environmental health nonprofit seeking to improve children’s health through healthy homes. Their main goal is to bring awareness and education to families in the city about environmental hazards like asthma and lead poisoning, and how homes can impact health. OHKA believes that education is fundamental for empowering people and creating change. They strive to create environmental equality in Omaha for all by offering education on health hazards in the home, tenant legal rights, environmental testing, and information on the community resources available in the city.
Call the OHKA office at (402) 934-9700 to see how OHKA can help improve the health of your home!
Amplify Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. They award $35,000 in grants to local artists each year, and they provide artists with education, connections, and space. Amplify Arts also works to create systemic change in the arts sector by connecting artists, nonprofit organizations, and industry leaders. Part of that work includes connecting local businesses with artists to bring curated or custom works of art into your business space. Every step of their process can be tailored to your unique project needs. If your business is interested in working to bring local art into your space, please contact Amplify Arts by phone at (402) 996-1092 or by email at info@amplifyarts.org. Visit the website at www.amplifyarts.org.
Kids Can Community Center’s 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 and Handwriting Without Tears activities 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.
Founded in 1908 as Social Settlement Association of Omaha, Kids Can has a long history of making a meaningful impact in the community. Kids Can is located on 49th and Q Streets in Omaha.
For more information about Kids Can Community Center, visit KidsCan.org, call (402) 731-6988, or email jgillman@kidscan.org.
The First Responders Foundation is a social impact organization that directly supports first responders and their families. First responders put their lives on the line for Omaha residents every day to save and protect the people of the community. The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work, and enhance public safety.
Programming includes: The First Responders Support Team (FRST), mental and emotional well-being programs and support groups; Awards of Excellence Scholarships for first responders children; Appreciation Lunches for first responders; JAVELAN—service dogs for first responders and veterans; Home Safety Program providing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors; Tri County Fire Corps program for youth; Supporting Officers on 4 Legs—K-9, Mounted Patrol, and Alley the Arson Dog.
Major events: 9/11 Luncheon of Honor and Guns & Hoses Boxing Challenge.
Your financial gifts help provide programs for local first responders and the community. For information or to volunteer, contact Jodi Teal at jodi@firstrespondersomaha.org / (402) 218-1234. Learn more online at www.firstrespondersomaha.org.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, their 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:
- Virtual coffee talks and happy hours via Zoom. Visit jdrf.org/nebraska for upcoming dates.
- JDRF One Walk, Omaha-Council Bluffs – October 3, 2020
Programs:
- Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies
- Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community
- Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities
- Outreach – Resources and events for individuals and families
- Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels
- YLC – Young professionals raising awareness and funds for T1D
Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraska or (402) 397-2873.
Youth Emergency Services (YES) 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 3,000 youth in the Omaha metro. YES also provided 7,106 meals to youth through their Street Outreach Center. Many of these youth have been physically, emotionally, or sexually abused, making it unsafe for them to return home. Without YES, these vulnerable young people cannot succeed independently.
YES offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes the Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, Maternity Group Home, and a new program for 2020, 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 in their program 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.
CenterPointe began 47 years ago in 1973 as Lincoln Lancaster Drug Projects, also known as Full Circle. Ever since the beginning, CenterPointe has been leading the way in integrated substance use and mental health care. Their mission is to help the individuals they serve get better sooner, for longer. CenterPointe provides 35+ programs including, but not limited to, treatment, rehabilitation, housing, and crisis response. The newest exciting project involves a government grant of $2 million per year for the next two years, which will allow us to become a CCBCH (Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic). This enables CenterPointe to integrate physical healthcare with their already existing behavioral healthcare services. As a nonprofit with a wide range of services, they are always appreciative of financial gifts that help them keep serving the Omaha community with CenterPointe’s Campus for Hope. The best way to reach CenterPointe is through the website at www.centerpointe.org.
The Clyde Malone Community Center was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban league. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African American 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 local community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold our 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 Clyde Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.
FAMILY, Inc. 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).
Founded in 1986, the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works closely with Papillion La Vista Community Schools (PLCS) to enhance educational opportunities for students and staff by offering opportunities and programs that otherwise would not be possible if only tax dollars were available. Close ties with PLCS District and surrounding community ensure that the best ideas to support students, teachers, technology, and programs become a reality.
The Foundation upholds this mission by reaching out to staff, parents, alumni, and the community to create financial and supportive resources needed to augment the overall educational experience for Papillion La Vista Community Schools. Immediate and endowed support is provided by donors, alumni, and parents through the Foundation to ensure these opportunities and programs will be available to the District for generations.
To learn more about the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation, visit plvschoolsfoundation.org or call (402) 829-1340.
Celebrating 125-years, the Aksarben Foundation 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.
Although many people know Goodwill Industries, Inc., Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, as a place to donate used clothing and household items, they might not know that the organization’s mission is to offer job training and placement services for people with disabilities and other disadvantages or barriers to employment.
Here’s how Goodwill works: Donated items are sold in Goodwill retail stores. The proceeds subsidize the organization’s mission programs, giving thousands of individuals in the Omaha area the chance to earn a living 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, MD, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
For more information about Goodwill’s programs and its 17 convenient locations in Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, Fremont, Blair, Gretna, and Council Bluffs, please visit GoodwillOmaha.org.
For over 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional, and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. Their service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as responding to a seizure or alerting to a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partners. Connect by calling (402) 465-4201 or go online to www.domesti-pups.org.
Life-changing care…right in your own backyard. Join Boys Town in the business of saving kids and healing families!
For more than 100 years, Boys Town has been serving local communities, both as a good neighbor and a provider of high-quality care and treatment programs. They’ve always taken great pride in being right here when kids and families need them, whether that’s for a child in need of a stable home or a parent looking for a trusted pediatrician for their child.
That’s why the partnership and support of local businesses is so valuable to their mission. Learn more about how you can help Boys Town expand its services so more people in need can experience hope and healing. Call (531) 355-1300, email info@boystown.org, or go online to www.boystown.org.
Parkinson’s Nebraska is committed to strengthening the Parkinson’s community by spreading awareness and connecting families with resources to help them live a quality life with Parkinson’s disease. They are passionate about overcoming the barriers that Nebraskans affected by PD encounter along their journey. In collaboration with community partners, they are able to develop and expand innovative Parkinson’s services and increase accessibility in communities across Nebraska. Their goal is to create a community of patients, caregivers, and resources so that the journey of Parkinson’s is “A Journey Shared.”
They recognize a need for more access to Parkinson’s services and education in rural communities across the state. By developing innovative virtual services such as webinars, online support groups, and exercise classes they are able to provide these services to under-served communities. The new Rural Community Outreach program targets rural areas to identify and meet their unique needs, connect leaders with resources, and promote local community-building. They plan to continue this momentum through 2020 and continue developing innovative ways to identity and meet the needs of the Nebraska Parkinson’s community. Learn more online at www.parkinsonsnebraska.org or call (402) 715-4707.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Nearly 400,000 BBB Accredited Businesses support BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust, and their dues and contributions allow BBB to offer its information and services to consumers at no charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, over 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting the marketplace.
People today are overwhelmed with choices—and often unsure about where to find verified, unbiased information. There are more than 32 million businesses in North America alone, and hundreds of thousands of sites around the world where people shop online. Also, thousands of free and subscription websites offer a range of information, including: reviews, reports, directories, listings, and gripe sites. BBB is the resource where you can find trusted information. Go to BBB.org or call (402) 391-6712.
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 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.
Bags of Fun has been operating for 15 years in Denver and started in Omaha in September 2019, where they have delivered 75 Bags of Fun in eight short months. 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 Cross Training Center is to empower and equip unemployed and undereducated men and women through character development, vocational training, and work experience. The organization 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.”
The students at the Center are youth and adults who are unemployed because of challenging backgrounds and circumstances. They have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, generational poverty, and other challenging conditions.
Cross Training Center provides vocational training and hands-on work experience so they gain skills and knowledge to overcome the barriers of employment. They are able to acquire a job on a career path and break the cycle of poverty for generations to come.
Students receive real work experience while providing valuable services to the community in the following areas:
- Electronics recycling
- Computer refurbishing and repair
- Computer and electronics retail store
- Appliance sales
- Automotive maintenance and repair services
- Banquet facility
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.
Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO) 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).
Incorporated in 2002, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) 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 650 nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education, and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” Hindery said.
NAM’s signature Guidelines and Principles Program provides legal compliance and best practices information in 12 major areas of nonprofit management: communication, evaluation, financial management, fundraising, governance, human resources, information technology, planning, public policy and advocacy, strategic alliances, transparency and accountability, and volunteer management. The National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits, recognizes NAM as the state association for Nebraska. Learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.org or call (402) 557-5800.
Since 1989, Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy’s (HETRA) mission has been to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children of all ability levels through Equine-Assisted activities. Adaptive Riding, Therapy Services, Carriage Driving, Life Skills, Veterans, and Equine Facilitated Learning programs are at the heart of HETRA’s services. As the only Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH, Intl.) Accredited facility in Nebraska, HETRA employs occupational, mental health, and physical therapists and 16 PATH Intl. Certified Riding Instructors.
Today, despite the obstacles, burdens, and challenges presented by the current COVID-19 Crisis, HETRA continues its 31+ years of dedication and commitment to its participants with the help of over 250 dedicated volunteers who donate over 26,000 hours annually. HETRA offers year-round programming, works with a herd of over 20 horses, and is situated on 25 beautiful acres in Gretna. Learn more at www.HETRA.org or call (402) 359-8830.
Nebraska Safety Council’s mission is simple: For more than 60 years they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. 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.
Their members 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 wellbeing 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.
Providing leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community, Nebraska Safety Council – (402) 483-2511 / nesafetycouncil.org.
NAMI Omaha 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.
For additional information, go to www.namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 / (877) 463-6264. For additional information on NAMI Omaha and other helpful articles on mental illness topics, please follow/like on Facebook (@NAMIOmaha).
The YMCA of Greater Omaha is dedicated to building healthy, confident, and connected communities through recreation and personal growth while fostering environments that encourage youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With 10 branch locations, the YMCA provides easy access to youth and adult sports, aquatics, wellness centers, early learning and healthy living centers, group fitness classes, and so much more.
The Strong Communities campaign raises $800,000 every year in donations, helping the YMCA provide $2.3 million in charitable programming, providing memberships and access to those who might not otherwise be able to participate. Over 24,000 Omaha children participate in YMCA youth sports programs, 2,000 kids enjoy summer day camps, 10,000 people have learned lifesaving swim safety education and instruction, and nearly 64,000 families and individuals call the YMCA of Greater Omaha their choice for a healthier lifestyle.
For more information on the YMCA of Greater Omaha and the Strong Communities campaign, visit www.metroymca.org/give.
The American Heart Association 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.
CEDARS remains committed to helping kids in crisis and building strong families.
For over 70 years, this community has rallied around CEDARS to help them care for kids and families who need it most. In this time of uncertainty, CEDARS vital services are needed now more than ever. Thanks to community support, CEDARS dedicated team of 200 professionals and a network of loving foster parents is able to serve on the front lines to bring safety and stability into the lives of 2,000 kids and families each year.
CEDARS is accredited through the Council on Accreditation and the National Association for the Education of Young Children, is a United Way partner, a four-star charity with Charity Navigator, a top-rated charity with CharityWatch, and a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.
CEDARS commitment is to helping children and families has not—and will not—ever waiver. To learn more, call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit CEDARSkids.org.
MENTOR Nebraska is focused on improving the number and quality of mentoring programs available for Nebraska’s youth. For more than 20 years, MENTOR Nebraska has led the mentoring movement to ensure youth and mentors have access to high-quality mentoring experiences. MENTOR Nebraska does this by raising awareness, standards, and numbers around mentoring. In addition, MENTOR Nebraska provides training, support, technical assistance, and background checks to mentoring programs throughout the state.
MENTOR Nebraska’s vision is for every young person to have the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive, and engaged adults. For that to happen, they need caring adults like you to volunteer your time. Please help them make a difference in someone’s life. Visit MENTORNebraska.org to learn how you can become a mentor.
RISE is an innovative “inside-out” program serving incarcerated people through an intensive six-month reentry class inside seven Nebraska state prisons. Additionally, RISE provides reentry services to released program graduates.
In-prison programming focuses on character development, job readiness, reentry planning, and entrepreneurship. Reentry programming includes case management, employment aid, transportation, housing support, mental health, and substance abuse resources, and help obtaining basic needs for returning citizens.
RISE’s vision is that all people find freedom from cycles of incarceration. When people reenter society well and are supported by the community, public safety increases, people can begin to build wealth for their families, maintain healthy relationships, and break the cycles of incarceration.
You can make a direct impact on your community with RISE through volunteering at RISE in-prison events, reviewing program participant resumes online, becoming a RISE Reentry Mentor, volunteering with our policy and advocacy team, and through financial support. To learn more, visit www.seeusrise.org or call (402) 999-8063.
Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) 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 258 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 44,476 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $355.3 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.
Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP) is a nonprofit community based organization that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty since 1965. Last year, ENCAP provided 21,590 to 6,557 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, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. For more information, please visit www.encapnebraska.org.
Child Saving Institute (CSI) focuses on the prevention, intervention and healing of childhood trauma, neglect and abuse. Since its beginning more than 128 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 child care centers, Foster Care, foster parent training, Therapy, In Home Services for struggling families, Pediatric Social Work services in low income medical clinics, Independent Living Skills education for youth aging out of the foster care system, free parenting workshops, and older child adoption. The agency also operates the Triage Center at Project Harmony, providing a comfortable environment, food, and fresh clothing to children who have been abruptly removed from their homes in crisis.
CSI’s programs are diverse, but so are the needs of today’s children and youth. With your support and the support of others like you, CSI serves more than 2,800 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, improving the lives of children in our community—helping them discover the joy of childhood that every child should experience.
For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, visit childsaving.org, or call (402) 553-6000.