Community involvement is a core value at Strictly Business. We believe in supporting our neighbors and giving back whenever possible, and partnering with nonprofits allows us to help strengthen the heart of our community. Nonprofit organizations address the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors and work tirelessly to support causes that matter to many of us.
Many people don’t realize the impact they can have with items already in their homes. Things you no longer use—blankets, towels, children’s toys, books, puzzles, office supplies, unopened toiletries, or cleaning products—can become meaningful donations. Check with local nonprofits about what they need most; you may be surprised by how many of those items are sitting unused in your home.
And if you truly have nothing left to give (look harder!), your time can make just as big of a difference. Volunteer opportunities range from helping at food pantries and shelters to mentoring youth, assisting animal rescues, supporting community cleanups, or lending office and event help behind the scenes.
Giving back matters—but meaningful advocacy begins with awareness. That’s the purpose of our Supporting Nonprofits segment. Strictly Business is proud to offer nonprofits accessible visibility and media support, which has led to countless collaborations between businesses and local organizations. Featuring your nonprofit in these pages connects your mission with readers who actively plan their charitable giving, volunteer involvement, and community engagement throughout the year.
Read on to learn more about the incredible nonprofits featured in this issue and the impact they’re making right here in our community.
For over 18 years, Autism Action Partnership (AAP) (autismaction.org) has been dedicated to bridging critical gaps for the autism community through innovative programs and services. At AAP, we focus on fostering Support, Inclusion and Prosperity for autistic individuals and their families.
When our journey began in 2008, autism impacted 1 in 88 children. Today, that number has more than doubled to 1 in 31 (CDC, 2025). The CDC also estimates that over 7 million autistic adults live in the U.S.—representing 2.2% of the population. These numbers drive our commitment to helping the autism community thrive.
Completely KIDS is a leading Omaha nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering children and families to build a safe, healthy, and connected community. Serving nearly 3,500 kids and their families across 16 locations, including public and parochial schools, homeless shelters, and the Ronald McDonald House, the organization takes a holistic approach to breaking the cycle of poverty.
AAP offers a wide range of impactful programs, including after school groups for autistic adolescents, workforce development opportunities, life skills workshops, family-friendly events and first responder training. Through COMPASS, our training and consultation initiative serving local businesses and organizations, we’re leading the way to create a more inclusive Omaha.
Discover how AAP is empowering the autism community at autismaction.org or by calling (402) 763-8830.
Completely KIDS (completelykids.org) is a leading Omaha nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering children and families to build a safe, healthy, and connected community. Serving nearly 3,500 kids and their families across 16 locations, including public and parochial schools, homeless shelters, and the Ronald McDonald House, the organization takes a holistic approach to breaking the cycle of poverty.
From academic support and mental health services to nutritious meals, including more than 1,300 weekend food bags each week, Completely KIDS removes barriers that stand between families and long-term stability. Its headquarters in the heart of the community keeps staff closely connected to the challenges families face, fostering trust and meaningful impact.
In addition to youth programs, Completely KIDS offers educational and enrichment opportunities for adults, helping families build skills, confidence, and connections. Volunteers, Guild members, and board leaders amplify the organization’s reach, delivering programs that support academic success, strengthen families, and create brighter futures for Omaha’s kids. For more information, visit completelykids.org.
The Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation (JEHFoundation.org), the fundraising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson (MJE) Hospital, is dedicated to enhancing community well-being. By engaging philanthropic leaders, the foundation ensures that MJE Hospital’s programs and services continue to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Philanthropic support fuels the foundation’s initiatives, including the Caring for Our Community Fund, Cancer Center, Cardiac Center, Women’s Services, Charitable Patient Care Fund, Medi-Van Transportation, and Scholarship Funds. These vital resources provide essential care, education, and services to those who may otherwise lack access to healthcare.
The foundation encourages community involvement through donations, planned gifts, and corporate sponsorships. Becoming a MJE Adult Volunteer offers a unique opportunity for individuals to make a difference, develop new skills, and contribute to a supportive hospital environment.
To get involved or learn more about the foundation’s mission, call (712) 396-6040 or visit JEHFoundation.org. Every contribution, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in sustaining the foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for all.
Founded in 1989 by Dennis and Carol Wheeler of Auburn, Nebraska, Midwest Animal Rescue was created to address the growing need for care of homeless and unwanted dogs. In the early 1990s, the organization became Hearts United for Animals (HUA) (hua.org), evolving into a nationally recognized leader in animal welfare. Since 1996, HUA has rescued more than 18,000 dogs from severe neglect, untreated medical conditions, and profound emotional trauma, highlighting the urgent need for reform in commercial breeding practices.
In the summer of 2024, HUA lost both founders within weeks of each other. While their passing marked the end of an era, their legacy endures. HUA’s board, staff, and executive leadership remain steadfast in honoring the Wheelers’ vision while building a strong future for the non-profit organization.
A cornerstone of HUA’s impact is its weekly Spay/Neuter Clinic, which has treated more than 25,000 animals and prevented an estimated 2.5 million births. Through donor and community support, HUA continues to reduce puppy mills through education, legislation, and enforcement, bringing a puppy-mill-free future closer to reality.
To learn more, visit hua.org and follow Hearts United for Animals on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok
Community Foundation for Western Iowa (givewesterniowa.org) is your connection to creating a lasting legacy of giving, ensuring communities in western Iowa are vibrant and strong for future generations.
The Community Foundation helps donors create a personalized philanthropy plan tailored to their interests and preferences. Donors can maximize their charitable gifts, which can include cash, financial investments, bequests, stocks and securities, grain, livestock, real estate and vehicles. As an added benefit, the Community Foundation is proud to offer the Endow Iowa Tax Credit, a 25% state credit on qualified gifts.
Since 2007, the Community Foundation for Western Iowa and its charitable investors have granted more than $21 Million to organizations creating impact in western Iowa. Last year, generous donors awarded 118 grants to organizations totaling more than $4 Million through their charitable funds at the Community Foundation.
Help our community meet the challenges of changing times. Create impact and give where we live at givewesterniowa.org.
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. This mission guides every action the organization takes.
The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies approximately 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches life-saving skills; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families.
Through a strong network of volunteers, donors, and partners, the Red Cross is always ready to respond in times of need. Its supporters provide a beacon of hope, whether helping during disasters, ensuring access to lifesaving blood, delivering critical training, or supporting military communities.
To learn more about the American Red Cross and how to get involved, visit redcross.org.
Outlook Nebraska (outlooken.org/give), which began in 2000, celebrated 25 years in 2025 of advancing its mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals who are blind or visually impaired gain fulfilling career opportunities to lead successful, independent lives. The Omaha-based 501(c)(3) social enterprise is the largest employer of the blind in Nebraska.
Outlook Enrichment emerged in 2019 after Outlook Nebraska President and CEO Eric Stueckrath saw that employment alone doesn’t guarantee independence for people who are blind or have low vision.
Today, Outlook Enrichment meets a vital need in the Omaha community, where more than 15,000 youth and adults are living with significant vision loss. Through a comprehensive range of programs, the organization equips individuals with the skills, confidence and opportunities needed to live independently, stay connected and thrive.
To get involved with Outlook Enrichment, donation and volunteer opportunities are available at outlooken.org/give.
Child Saving Institute (CSI) (childsaving.org) has been a steadfast advocate for children and families for more than a century. Through its recent merger with Children’s Square, CSI now proudly serves communities across Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, bringing 275 years of combined experience to champion the best outcomes for every child and family.
The organization’s mission remains focused on meeting children and families where they are, with compassion, care and hope. From mental health services and early childhood education to residential treatment and emergency shelters, CSI provides a continuum of care designed to help all families thrive.
Looking to the future, CSI encourages community members to support its work in building brighter tomorrows, one child, one family and one community at a time. More information is available at childsaving.org.
Educare of Omaha, Inc. (educareomaha.org) prepares children and families for elementary school by providing high quality, full-time, year-round early education. Over 650 children ages zero to five years participate annually at five schools located in North and South Omaha, and through a home visitation program. At Educare schools, certified teachers interact with children to develop and reach individual social-emotional and cognitive goals. On-site health aides provide health screenings and referrals. All meals, snacks, diapers and other basic needs are provided for during school hours.
Each family also meets with a Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Specialist or Early Childhood Coordinator who provides education and support about child development and parenting, helps families design and meet goals and links families to agencies that may be able to help with health needs, housing concerns, finding employment and more.
For more information about Educare of Omaha, Inc., visit educareomaha.org.
Founded in 1986, MICAH House (themicahhouse.org) serves families and single women that are experiencing the crisis of homelessness by providing shelter and support services. Located on the Charles E. Lakin Human Services Campus in Council Bluffs, MICAH House provides two shelter programs – a family shelter and a women’s shelter. Through both programs, all individuals are provided with case management services that are tailored specifically to them, helping each person reach their unique goals and safe, stable housing.
MICAH House provides a variety of additional support services including education on finances and employment, an on-site health clinic, career closet with free professional clothing, various types of therapeutic programs targeted specifically for each population (families, women, children), the Florence M. Lakin Child Development Center and invaluable parenting support.
For more information, please visit themicahhouse.org.
For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) (knb.org) has worked for the betterment of Nebraska through waste reduction, recycling and community beautification. KNB’s mission is to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affiliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), KNB coordinates KAB events in the state of Nebraska and is a statewide resource for its 20 local community affiliates and all Nebraska residents.
The largest programs offered through KNB are the School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, CleanGreenZoNE, Materials Exchange, Used Oil Collection, Food Waste Education, Household Hazardous Waste and our newest Sustainability Seal Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/awareness.
To learn more, call (402) 486-4562 or visit knb.org for more information.
Inclusive Communities (inclusive-communities.org) is a leading nonprofit advancing justice, equity and belonging across Nebraska through transformative education, dialogue and leadership development. For nearly 90 years, the organization has equipped individuals, schools, companies and communities with the tools to challenge bias, disrupt discrimination and build stronger, more inclusive environments.
Signature programs like IncluCity, an immersive camp leadership experience for teens, bring students from across the region together for deep learning, identity exploration and honest conversations about race, class, gender and social issues. Inclusive Communities also partners with workplaces and civic groups to deliver trainings, equity audits and community-building initiatives tailored to local needs.
With a mission rooted in courageous spaces and community empowerment, Inclusive Communities continues to expand its impact through statewide partnerships, youth leadership pipelines and public events such as the Jane H. & Rabbi Sidney H. Brooks Conversations for Change Series on March 17, 2026, at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Keynote speaker Gaby Natale, an Emmy-winning journalist, bestselling author and global speaker who helps people break barriers, will share how to redefine what’s possible. Reserve your spot now on TicketOmaha.com and be part of something bigger.
Learn more at inclusive-communities.org.
Lily Haven (lilyhaven.org) is a trauma-informed residential program supporting girls ages 14–18 who have survived human trafficking. Their mission is to create a stable, nurturing environment where each young woman can heal, rediscover her identity and begin building a hopeful future at her own pace.
The program centers on a warm, family-style group home model with 24-hour staff, offering consistent care and space for trust to grow. Each resident receives individualized support that may include therapeutic services, life-skills development and education. All services are facilitated through staff and volunteers trained in the Teaching Family Model, ensuring that care is structured, relational and grounded in evidence-based practices.
Grounded in professionalism and compassion, Lily Haven offers more than immediate relief; it provides room for long-term healing and the tools for sustainable growth. Their work reflects both the seriousness of the realities these girls have faced and the belief that every survivor deserves stability, dignity and a future filled with possibility.
For more information, visit lilyhaven.org.
The Omaha Police Officers Association Foundation (OPOAF) (opoaf.org) was established in 2021 to continue a long-standing tradition of service and community support in Omaha. Founded by seven members, the foundation’s mission is to strengthen relationships between the Omaha Police Department and the community through outreach, education, and meaningful engagement. By fostering trust and connection, OPOAF works to enhance public safety and promote positive outcomes for residents across the city.
Today, the foundation has grown into an active force for good, supporting the community through annual outreach events, youth-focused programs, and partnerships with local organizations. Through sponsorships, hands-on involvement, and signature initiatives such as Shop With a Cop, OPOAF remains committed to building bridges and supporting the families it serves.
For more information, visit opoaf.org.
The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) (NebraskaSportsCouncil.com) invites businesses to build a healthier, stronger Nebraska.
The Nebraska Sports Council is a premier organization dedicated to building a healthier Nebraska through sports and physical activity. Its signature initiatives include the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games—events that unite businesses in friendly competition while promoting teamwork and employee wellness. These games provide corporations with a platform to boost morale, encourage fitness, and strengthen workplace culture.
The NSC is committed to enhancing Nebraska’s sports landscape and actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Businesses aligning with the NSC gain valuable exposure while contributing to the growth of a more active and connected community. Sponsorship options range from event-specific branding to long-term partnerships, offering flexibility for marketing and philanthropic goals.
By supporting the NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play an essential role in fostering engagement, well-being, and community pride across the state. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Nebraska. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
Reformation at the Crossroads (reformationatthecrossroads.org) is a faith-driven organization dedicated to walking with women as they heal from addiction, trauma, and the deep wounds that often go unseen. Rooted in Christian principles and guided by compassion, the organization equips women with practical tools, spiritual support, and trauma-informed care that fosters lasting transformation.
Through mentorship, training, and personal connection, Reformation at the Crossroads empowers women not only to rebuild their lives but also to step confidently into their calling. Its Christian Trauma-Informed Training prepares women to serve as mentors for others navigating similar hardships, creating a growing network of support grounded in hope and resilience.
With a commitment to restoring dignity, strengthening faith, and nurturing community, Reformation at the Crossroads serves as a place of renewal where women are seen, supported, and reminded that healing is possible. The organization’s work continues to ignite change, one relationship, one story, and one courageous step at a time.
For more information, visit shareomaha.org/nonprofit/reformation-crossroads-inc.
Who is Project Intentional (projectintentional.com)?
Project Intentional is dedicated to intentionally restoring dignity in women and families, one project at a time. Born out of a spontaneous holiday act of kindness, its mission grew when its founder decided to “adopt a mom” in need—sparking a movement to uplift single mothers in the Omaha community.
Today, Project Intentional provides essential resources, emotional support and practical help to women and caregivers who otherwise lack access. Their vision is a city where every family has not just what they need, but a sense of community, belonging and self-worth.
Through initiatives like the “Love Can” store and neighborhood “Hope Lockers”, they distribute hygiene items, clothing and more—meeting urgent needs while affirming dignity. Project Intentional exists because compassion, when done intentionally, has the power to change lives.
For more information, visit projectintentional.com.
The American Heart Association (heart.org/nebraska) is devoted to healthier lives for everyone and saving people from the nation’s top two causes of death: Heart Disease and Strokes. Their goal is to equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
They are powered and run by only the best of the best. Thanks to millions of volunteers and countless help from local and global collaborators they are able to help fight against Heart Disease and keep people informed and educated on how to live healthy lives.
Through events right here in Nebraska, like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit heart.org/nebraska.
Since 1923, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) (UnitedWayMidlands.org) has served the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro as a trusted bridge between the business, government and not-for-profit sectors – fostering meaningful partnerships to support our community’s most impactful health and human service programs. UWM’s more than 150 funded programs and direct services – like 211 and JAG Nebraska – focus on four key areas to improve health and well-being for all, build financial stability and strength, help young people realize their full potential and address urgent needs today to build a stronger tomorrow for our community.
As part of each investment cycle, UWM accepts applications from agencies across the metro requesting funding for their programming. More than 100 community volunteers contribute their time, talent and expertise to help UWM review these grant applications and invest in impactful programs – creating a circle of support and strengthening the safety net of essential services for the metro community.
Learn more at UnitedWayMidlands.org.
Chabad of Nebraska (ochabad.com) is dedicated to creating a community rooted in kindness, learning and genuine human connection, where every person feels welcome, supported and valued, regardless of background or faith.
The organization’s mission comes to life through meaningful programs that serve both the Jewish community and the broader Nebraska community. The Kitchen of Kindness provides nourishing meals with dignity and warmth, while the vibrant Young Jewish Professionals (YJP) network offers social, cultural and leadership opportunities that foster friendship and belonging.
Looking ahead, Chabad plans to reopen its expanded community food pantry in 2026, extending its reach to even more individuals and families seeking stability and support.
Whether someone walks through its doors for cultural connection, spiritual growth, community service or simply a safe, welcoming space, Chabad of Nebraska strives to be a home where compassion is shared freely and everyone is embraced with an open heart.
For more information, visit ochabad.com.
Homelessness has no single face, story or path. For young people in crisis, the journey can be unpredictable and often isolating. Youth Emergency Services (YES) (yesomaha.org) provides a stable, welcoming environment for Omaha youth ages 16–24 who are experiencing instability, crisis or homelessness.
YES meets immediate needs such as food, hygiene, safety and shelter, while guiding youth toward long-term independence through its comprehensive Continuum of Care. Outreach workers connect with youth in the community and invite them to the Drop-In Center. Those who qualify may stay in the YES emergency shelter for up to 90 days and receive individualized support, often transitioning into longer-term housing. After completing the program, youth may receive 12 additional months of support through Rapid Rehousing, helping them move into and maintain their own apartments. By the end of this pathway, young people leave YES with the tools and confidence to build a stable future.
To learn more about YES programs and services, visit bit.ly/yesyouth.
Vision Maker Media (VMM) (visionmakermedia.org), a Lincoln, Nebraska-based non-profit overseen by President and CEO Francene Blythe-Lewis, was established in 1976 as a media archive of videos about Native American history, culture, and generational wisdom. Francene’s father, VMM founder Frank Blythe, had a visionary and ambitious goal: the development, distribution, and production of programming by and about Native Americans and Alaska Natives for public television.
In 2026, VMM celebrates 50 years as the flagship organization dedicated to bringing media by and about Native Americans into American homes through public television broadcasts, community-based events, social media feeds, and streaming downloads.
VMM accomplishes its important mission through training, networking, and mentorship opportunities. Over its fifty-year history, VMM has supported filmmakers from 412 Native American tribal communities and envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate.
For more information, please visit visionmakermedia.org.
The YMCA of Greater Omaha (metroymca.org) highlights powerful impact on youth, families and seniors.
Since its founding in 1866 by a Union Pacific employee, the YMCA of Greater Omaha has been a trusted community anchor, providing opportunities for individuals of every age and background to learn, grow and thrive. Today, the Y operates 14 facilities, four early learning centers, and multiple out-of-school time sites across Nebraska and Iowa, ensuring accessible programs for all.
The YMCA’s youth development offerings, from sports and swim lessons to early learning and afterschool programs, help children build confidence, learn life skills and develop lasting friendships. Members of all ages benefit from supportive wellness programs, including LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, Brain & Body for Parkinson’s and Y Weight Loss, as well as tailored opportunities for active older adults.
As one of the region’s largest employers and a nonprofit providing more than $1 million in annual financial assistance, the YMCA of Greater Omaha remains committed to strengthening families, promoting health and fostering a more connected community.
To learn more about the Y, visit metroymca.org.
Established in 1972, Santa Monica House (santamonicahouse.org) provides long-term residential programs for adult women battling substance use, mental health and trauma. The program relies on the disciplines of the Alcoholics Anonymous’® 12-step program while incorporating evidenced-based, strength-focused models.
Santa Monica House provides food, shelter, rehabilitative counseling, job acquisition guidance and resocialization training through its continuum of care. Being under Santa Monica’s umbrella, women will be empowered as they progress through the Intermediate Residential, Halfway House, Three-Quarter way or sober living and Supported Transitional Apartments, moving toward independent living. Women in the three-quarter way and apartments will work with our Certified Peer Support Specialist to partner with on their journey to independence.
The agency also offers chemical dependency evaluations to the community. This tiered approach provides a holistic experience, giving women more support as they transition back into the community. Donations are always appreciated, particularly toiletries, clothing and paper products.
For more information about the agency, its programs and how to help, visit santamonicahouse.org.
Firefly (firefly.kids)’s mission is to engage and educate our community, inspiring a healthy future through literacy, family and public health services. They envision a resilient community built on strong partnerships and trust with equitable opportunities to thrive. Firefly is committed to building a brighter future for our community through our children by providing the right support and service for each child at the earliest stages of development, prenatally through age five, preparing them 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 health care, fostering informal support networks and more, Firefly partners with each family leading to more successful outcomes into adulthood. There is no better investment in the future a community can make!
To learn more, visit firefly.kids or call (712) 256-9566. Firefly can also be found on Facebook (@fireflykids) and LinkedIn (@Firefly).
Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 266 communities.
In the past five years, 46,481 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $594 million in Nebraska’s people and places.
For more information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Empowering abilities. Connecting families. Changing lives.
At United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska (ucpnebraska.org), we are dedicated to helping individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities live a life without limits.
Through programs like Family Focus, we bring families together for collective support, create family experiences and build lasting connections.
Our Tech Tools program provides access to life-changing assistive technology, helping people communicate, learn and engage in play. These devices are available at 12 libraries throughout Nebraska and are free of costs for all ages to explore.
Our Client Assistance Grants help individuals and families access resources that enhance daily living and independence, from home and vehicle modifications to camps, adaptive equipment and other items that improve quality of life. Additionally, our Information & Referrals program connects people to resources, services and guidance tailored to their unique needs, ensuring no one navigates life’s obstacles alone.
Every achievement and experience matters—learning a new skill, sharing a laugh or gaining independence—and our programs create lasting impact.
Join us in building a more inclusive Nebraska. Learn more, volunteer, or donate at ucpnebraska.org or call (402) 502-3572.
Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) (midlandscommunity.org) serves as a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties, helping donors achieve their philanthropic goals and invest in the power of community. MCF plays an integral role in the community by supporting arts, community and economic development, education, health and human services. Its programs and initiatives include:
- Providing shelter for the homeless and stocking local food banks
- Underwriting scholarships for college-bound students
- Maintaining and supporting local libraries
- Updating parks and recreational areas
- Providing new technology for schools and nonprofit organizations
- Funding educational field trips for schoolchildren
- Supporting STEM initiatives
- Assisting with emergency disaster relief for affected residents
In addition, MCF manages 190 charitable funds that serve a wide array of needs. Last year, the foundation reinvested more than $5.3 million into the community through grants, discretionary gifts, charitable fund contributions and program services. For more information, visit midlandscommunity.org.
The Great Plains Black History Museum (gpblackhistorymuseum.org) preserves, celebrates and amplifies the rich contributions of African Americans throughout Nebraska and the Great Plains. Serving as a cultural anchor for the region, the museum documents stories of resilience, achievement and community strength through exhibits, archival collections, traveling displays and educational programming.
From honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen to spotlighting local civil rights leaders, athletes, entrepreneurs and artists, the museum provides historical context that connects past struggles and triumphs to today’s ongoing pursuit of equity and understanding. Its mission is simple yet vital: ensure Black history is visible, accessible and accurately told.
In addition to exhibits, the museum regularly collaborates with schools, universities and community organizations to deepen historical awareness and inspire future generations. Through storytelling, preservation and public engagement, the Great Plains Black History Museum continues to serve as a steward of truth and cultural heritage for our region. It is located at 2221 N. 24th Street and found online at gpblackhistorymuseum.org.
Avenue Scholars (avescholars.org) connects Omaha youth to high-paying, high-demand careers that are vital to the city’s future. Our program focuses on young people who are interested in careers outside of the traditional four-year college pathway. We work primarily with students who, due to additional financial or academic challenges, could benefit from extra support during the important transition period from high school to career entry.
Our students, who we proudly call our Scholars, begin the program during their junior year. While in school, they receive two years of classroom instruction from a dedicated Career Coach aimed at helping them select a stable, rewarding career path and develop the professional skills necessary to pursue it. After graduation, Scholars transition into our Career Services program where our Coaches work to help them secure a full-time job that pays a livable wage and offers benefits. We encourage Scholars to enter career fields that are in high demand in the Omaha area: healthcare, the skilled trades, transportation, information technology (IT), business and education.
To connect about potential partnership opportunities, email Director of Communications Blake Ursch at bursch@avescholars.org or call (402) 991-5395. For more information on the program, visit avescholars.org.
Open Door Mission (opendoormission.org) is a gospel rescue mission founded in 1954 and committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, the Open Door Mission campus provides 917 safe shelter beds to men, women and children experiencing homelessness, serves more than 5,366 nutritious meals, and offers homeless prevention services to more than 1,270 individuals living in poverty.
The program also provides more than 40 free programs to individuals and families across the Omaha and southwest Iowa area, creating meaningful change in the community right here, right now.
To learn more or find out how to make a difference, visit opendoormission.org or call (402) 422-1111.
Together, we can end child abuse. Project Harmony (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 projectharmony.com or call (402) 595-1326.
The Stephen Center (stephencenter.org), located in South Omaha, partners with individuals, families and the community to overcome homelessness, substance abuse and mental health concerns. Approximately 250 people call Stephen Center 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 state-licensed use and mental health treatment program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). It provides substance use evaluations, inpatient services and intensive outpatient treatment.
The third program is Stephen Center’s Permanent Supportive Housing program 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 pivotal role in Stephen Center’s mission, impacting clients’ lives every day.
For more information, visit stephencenter.org or follow @stephencenteromaha on Facebook.
Hero’s Encore (herosencore.org) is a Nebraska-based nonprofit serving veterans, first responders, and transitioning service members through a structured, music-based leadership and performance program. Founded by Air Force veteran and executive director Taylor Ullom, the organization addresses identity loss, isolation, and disconnection that often follow service. Hero’s Encore operates a nine-month Peer-to-Performer program, guiding participants through guitar instruction, songwriting, and live performance. The program culminates in a public graduation event where participants perform original music and are recognized by the community they serve.
The program is offered at no cost to participants and is supported through grants, sponsors, and community partnerships. In 2025, Hero’s Encore completed its first full cohort and expanded community engagement through workshops and performances across the region. The organization will graduate its inaugural cohort at the Hearts & Harmony Gala on Feb. 14 at the Holland Performing Arts Center and is preparing for program growth in 2026.
Learn more at herosencore.org.
Hiya (GoShopHiya.com) is a youth-led nonprofit dedicated to strengthening teen mental health, belonging and suicide prevention through creativity, connection and community care. Founded by teen entrepreneur Alejandra Wells, Hiya empowers young people with coping tools, leadership opportunities and safe spaces to express themselves.
Through hands-on workshops, peer-led initiatives, bracelet-making volunteer events and mental-wellness awareness campaigns, Hiya equips teens with the language and resources to navigate emotional wellness. The foundation also distributes Hiya Kits, small acts of hope filled with grounding tools and positive affirmations, to schools, youth centers and community programs. What began as a jewelry brand with heart has grown into a movement powered by young leaders who believe that kindness, creativity and conversation can save lives. Hiya is currently building its Youth Advisory Board and seeking community partners, mentors and supporters committed to uplifting teen mental health. Learn more at GoShopHiya.com.
Established in 2007, NeighborGood (neighborgoodpantry.org) (formerly Tri-City Food Pantry) is a vital pillar of support for Sarpy County and Ralston. Their mission is to eliminate hunger by providing nutritious food, increased self-sufficiency, and hope. Beyond groceries, they provide essential items like pet food and hygiene products, ensuring a holistic approach to community care.
Since 2021, NeighborGood has experienced a 128% surge in demand. To meet this need, they transitioned to a 9,100-square-foot facility in Papillion, featuring a “market-choice” shopping experience and expanded cold storage.
Through unwavering compassion and strategic growth, NeighborGood remains dedicated to nourishing the community and fostering long-term stability for all neighbors. For more information, visit neighborgoodpantry.org.
The nonprofits featured in this issue show the wide range of important work happening throughout Omaha. Each organization plays a unique role in addressing community needs, supporting local families, and stepping in where resources are limited. Together, they illustrate how essential the nonprofit sector is to the overall health, stability, and wellbeing of our community.
Seeing these missions side by side highlights how much nonprofits contribute—often quietly—to everyday life. Their efforts help strengthen networks of support, improve access to services, and create opportunities that make long-term difference for the people they serve. Many of these organizations are deeply embedded in Omaha’s neighborhoods, responding to needs as they arise and adapting their programs to meet changing circumstances. Whether providing food, shelter, education, health services, or advocacy, nonprofits are often the first to identify gaps and the last to step away from difficult work.
Nonprofits also play a major role in shaping the culture and character of a city. They bring people together, create community events, support youth development and the local arts, and give residents meaningful ways to connect with one another. In many cases, nonprofits help drive collaboration between local businesses, schools, faith communities, and government agencies; progress is rarely achieved alone. The partnerships they build not only strengthen their own missions but enrich the entire community in ways that ripple far beyond their programs.
Strictly Business aims to provide a space where nonprofits can share their work and increase community understanding of the issues they address. We want to remind individuals and businesses of an opportunity where they can do a lot of good for nonprofits. Individuals or businesses may sponsor a nonprofit to be in this feature, which gives them six months of press release coverage. This visibility helps organizations reach new supporters, highlight their achievements, and expand the impact of their mission.
If you don’t see your favorite nonprofits—or the one you work with—reach out to paige@strictlybusinessomaha.com or office@strictlybusinessomaha.com to find out how to sign them up or sponsor them. We will be running a limited follow-up Supporting Nonprofits feature for our February edition.