At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of the most vulnerable in our community 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 an opportunity to be a part of 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.

In this Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re highlighting a host of Omaha’s most impactful nonprofits, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share their stories and promote the work they do throughout the year. We encourage our readers to keep these nonprofits top-of-mind when choosing how to give, whether it’s money, time or skill.

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

MLCDC is a nonprofit organization that focuses on teaching Latinos and refugees leadership skills to create diverse and inclusive businesses. MLCDC focuses on enhancing the life of individuals in the Midlands while reducing poverty and increasing economic growth in local communities. MLCDC’s programs and services are provided in Spanish, English and Arabic, and cover areas of financial stability, industry training, entrepreneurship and leadership and lending. The lending program provides business loans to entrepreneurs that are unable to secure capital from financial institutions to start or expand their businesses. To learn more, visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org or call (402) 933-4466.

COPE’s (Christian Outreach Program – Elkhorn, copeinfo.org) community outreach program is dedicated to providing essential resources to our neighbors in western Douglas County, Nebraska. Through our food pantry, clothing closet, rental assistance and utility assistance programs, we strive to alleviate financial burdens and help families in need. Our goal is to create a supportive and inclusive community where everyone has access to basic necessities.

If you’d like to get involved, organizing a food drive is a great way to give back to your community. By coming together to collect non-perishable food items, we can help ensure that families in need have access to nutritious food. Whether it’s through a school, church or workplace, organizing a food drive is a simple and effective way to make a difference.

Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of our neighbors. Thank you for your support and dedication to our community. Contact COPE at (402) 616-2330 if you’d like more information! You can also visit their website, copeinfo.org.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (SAC Aerospace Museum, sacmuseum.org), in Ashland, is a testament to the rich history and incredible achievements of both STRATCOM and U.S. aerospace technology. The museum’s mission goes beyond mere preservation and display; it’s dedicated to entertaining, educating and inspiring future generations.

The museum’s captivating collection offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of aviation and its role in aerospace history. Engaging exhibits, interactive displays and educational programs let visitors of all ages delve into the wonders of flight and the courage of those who have ventured beyond our atmosphere.

The SAC Aerospace Museum’s continued success and impact relies on the support of individuals and the community. Supporters not only help preserve our aerospace heritage but also help ignite curiosity, inspire young minds and shape the future of aviation. Call the SAC Aerospace Museum at (402) 944-3100 or visit sacmuseum.org for more information.

Angel Guardians, Inc. (angelguardians.org) has a mission to foster abilities, increase access to and create opportunities for inclusion. Angel Guardians supports individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in leading self-fulfilling, independent lives. Through strengthening relationships in the Omaha Community, Angel Guardians believes we can create a more inclusive Omaha where people with and without disabilities can thrive.

Angel Guardians has several different program areas to support individuals in environments where they live, work and play. Throughout programming, participants will spend their time on activities including– but not limited to – volunteering, creating artwork, increasing social skills and learning work skills. All programs focus on habilitation, or skill-building, for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Angel Guardians empowers individuals with disabilities to self-advocate as they navigate the community setting.

To become a community partner with Angel Guardians, or to find out more, go to www.angelguardians.org or email us at info@angelguardians.org.

Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center (stephencenter.org) partners with the community, individuals and families to overcome homelessness, substance abuse and mental health concerns. 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 state-licensed substance use treatment and mental health services program providing substance use evaluations, inpatient services and intensive outpatient treatment. The third program is Permanent aaffordable housing for those that meet income and disability qualifications. All three programs are nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). 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 them on Facebook (@stephencenteromaha).

Kids Can Community Center’s (jgillman@kidscan.org) mission is to educate, engage and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences. Kids Can serves children ages six weeks to 13 years old, offering a variety of programs including early childhood education, before-and-after-school programs, non-school day programs, summer camps and mentoring. Kids Can is celebrating their 115th anniversary in service of the Omaha community and focuses on creating high quality learning environments and enrichment experiences.

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

Since 1973, Humanities Nebraska (HN, HumanitiesNebraska.org) has helped people explore what connects us and makes us human. As an independent nonprofit organization and state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, HN offers programming for everyone in the state, nurturing a more informed, thoughtful and just society. In 2023, HN is celebrating 50 years of connection by sparking curiosity during Humanities Week in October and all year long. HN programming includes a Speakers Bureau with more than 250 topics, the Nebraska Chautauqua summer history festival with scholars interacting with audiences as historic figures, Capitol Forum on America’s Future to engage high school students on global issues, Museum on Main Street traveling exhibitions from the Smithsonian, the annual Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities featuring a prominent national speaker, Prime Time Family Reading literacy programs, Nebraska Warrior Writers workshops for Veterans and active duty military, Nebraska History Day to inspire students in the process of discovery and interpretation of historical topics and grants that enable other Nebraska nonprofits to produce their own programming that enriches their local communities. For more information, please visit HumanitiesNebraska.org.

Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS, fhasinc.org) improves housing opportunities and eliminates poverty. We work with our clients to understand their needs and barriers, and administer programs that address those needs and elevate them to new levels through educational sessions, one-on-one personalized services and supplemental supports to reduce barriers. Tenant Services provides education and counseling to help those at risk of homelessness achieve long-term stability. Financial Education builds financial capabilities through credit report review, financial coaching and, as available, matched-savings towards homeownership, microbusiness enterprise or post-secondary education. Homeowner Services include pre- and post-purchase homebuyer education and counseling to help traditional renters convert their monthly housing payment to an equity-building appreciable asset. Fair Housing Center assists persons facing housing discrimination. The Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition offers volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) to help people access free tax services and obtain earned income credits to lift them out of poverty.

For more information about Family Housing Advisory services, visit fhasinc.org.

Open Door Mission (opendoormission.org) is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to men, women and children experiencing homelessness; 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.

Tri-City Food Pantry is now NeighborGood (neighborgoodpantry.org)! After serving the Sarpy County and Ralston communities for over 15 years, the board of directors is happy to present a new brand. This name reflects our focus on serving our neighbors with good food and the good hearts of our community that supports us. We want to be a community welcoming our neighbors into our homes for a good meal.

As we begin our next 15 years, we know that in order to meet the growing demand for our services, we will need more staff, more infrastructure and more space. Our “Growing to Give” capital campaign will provide a full scale, dynamic hunger and food insecurity facility located in Papillion. This new facility will provide the dignity of client choice for Sarpy County and Ralston families while considering their individual food needs.

For more information, please visit neighborgoodpantry.org or contact the director at neighborgoodcommunitypantry@gmail.com or (402) 552-7061.

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

Events:

  • JDRF One Walk – October 1, 2023 at Mahoney State Park
  • JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – March 2024, Date & Location TBD
  • JDRF One Night Gala – April 27, 2024 at CHI Health Center Omaha

Programs:

  • Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & policies for affordable & accessible therapies.
  • Community Outreach – Educational resources and support for individuals & families.
  • Community events – jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa
  • T1D Connect – Partner with JDRF & organize a meet-up in your community
  • Online Support Groups – jdrf.org/virtual-events
  • Give Back at School – School education & fundraising opportunities.
  • Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.
  • YLC – Young professionals raising awareness & funds for T1D.

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

Youth Emergency Services (YES, yesomaha.org) is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole focus of assisting youth who are experiencing homelessness or near homelessness. In 2022, YES provided housing and services to 598 youth in the Omaha and Council Bluffs areas. YES offers a full continuum of services to help youth on their path to self-sufficiency. Through our Street Outreach Program, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program and Maternity Group Home, youth can get connected to needed services within YES. Services include a hot meal, a safe place to sleep at night and connection with resources to help them return to school, find a job and secure permanent housing. While in the program, youth are connected to education and mental health resources, and can see a nurse for a variety of medical assessments. For more information about YES’ mission, programs and how you can help, please visit www.yesomaha.org.

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

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

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

Established in 1972, Santa Monica House (santamonicahouse.org) provides long-term residential programs to adult women battling substance use, mental health and trauma. The program relies on the disciplines of the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous ® while incorporating evidenced based models that are centered around a strength-based approach. Santa Monica provides food, shelter, rehabilitative counseling, job acquisition guidance and resocialization training through our 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 to independent living. Women in the Three-Quarter way house will work with our Certified Peer Support Specialist to partner with on their journey to independence. Starting July 1 we will offer Chemical Dependency evaluations to the community. This design to step-down levels of care provides a holistic experience giving 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 YMCA of Omaha (metroymca.org) strengthens communities through three pillars:

Youth development: Developing the next generation of leaders by instilling life skills such as perseverance, sportsmanship and teamwork. We do this through youth sports, summer camps, after-school programming, swim lessons and Early Learning Centers.

Healthy living: Engaging community members in healthy habits, including exercise and wellness programs for all and special accommodations for those managing health risks or recovery, including the elderly.

Social responsibility: Making health and learning opportunities broadly accessible for people of all means, backgrounds and neighborhoods.

Learn more at: www.metroymca.org.

Quest Forward Academy (omaha.questforward.academy) is a private high school located in Omaha, Nebraska. Established in 2017, the school was founded with the mission of providing a skills-forward, active learning approach to education. The academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates personalized, project-based learning with academic rigor and real-world relevance. Students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, develop essential skills and engage in self-directed inquiry to develop their passions and interests.

Quest Forward Academy’s programs include a four-year high school program for students in grades 9-12, as well as an Early High School Entry Program for motivated eighth graders. The school also offers a fully remote program for students who prefer to learn from home.

At Quest Forward Academy, small class sizes of no more than 16 students, individualized attention and a rigorous learning environment ensure that each student receives the support they need to thrive. With a focus on developing skills that are essential for success in college and beyond, the academy prepares students for a future of purpose and impact.

For more information about Quest Forward Academy, visit their website at omaha.questforward.academy or contact the admissions office at admissions@questforward.academy.

More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s (heartlandcancerfoundation.org) mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.

If you are passionate about supporting local cancer patients in Nebraska who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, reach out to get involved.

There are many ways to show your support, including volunteering your time and planning fun events as part of the Impact Guild, sponsoring one of our signature fundraising events like the Mardi Gras Gala or Heartland Golf Classic, or becoming an Impact Partner and having a presence at all of the organization’s events year-round.

Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life. If you’re ready to provide hope, learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

For 30 years, AIM Institute (aiminstitute.org) has delivered groundbreaking tech education programs that ignite curiosity, increase access to IT job training and inspire youth and adults to pursue a rewarding tech career. AIM believes it’s essential to equip people—including underrepresented and at-risk individuals—with the necessary skills to grow a stronger, more diverse tech community to close the on-going gap between the demand for IT professionals and available tech jobs.

Through education, career development and outreach, AIM provides networking opportunities, access programs for individuals to get into tech, technical skills training and success academies to advance professional careers.

Getting into tech could be a million-dollar decision—tech workers make an average of $1 million dollars more than employees in nontechnical positions over the course of a 30-year career.

Last year, AIM helped more than 6,500 individuals pursue high-skill, high-demand, high-pay tech careers. Learn how AIM can help you thrive in a rewarding tech career at aiminstitute.org.

The American Heart Association (heart.org/nebraska) 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 and stroke.

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 Nebraska, 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/nebraska.

The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council (nesafetycouncil.org) is simple For more than 60 years, they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy 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. Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and 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. The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more.

The mission of Abide (abideomaha.org) is to revitalize the inner city, one neighborhood at a time. Abide provides a holistic approach focused on developing safer neighborhoods, stronger families and emerging leaders. Through our Lighthouse Program, we refurbish abandoned or condemned houses and place leaders in those homes to be good neighbors and safe havens. This has resulted in crime reduction, increased commitment to neighborhood improvement and a sense of interconnectedness. Abide currently maintains 37 Lighthouses throughout North Omaha. To support stronger families, Abide hosts various events on our campus where community members can receive resources like diapers and food pantry boxes. In August, children receive school backpacks, and, in December, children receive toys for Christmas. Abide’s emerging leader program recruits, coaches and financially supports entrepreneurs to start and maintain their businesses on our campus so these leaders will remain in the inner city and elevate the community as a whole.

To get in touch with Abide, email info@abidenetwork.org or call (402) 455-7807. For more information about Abide, please visit www.abideomaha.org.

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

Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving over 275 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 46,653 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $463 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

Brain injuries impact multiple areas of a person’s life such as cognition, memory, balance, emotional stability, relationships and more. Currently, few resources and supports are available statewide to people living with a brain injury.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (biane.org/about), an affiliate of the United States Brain Injury Alliance, is a dedicated provider of brain injury health information and support in the state. Incorporated in 2009, the organization’s mission is to create a better future for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy and support.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) works to bring about meaningful system change by building community support networks that help individuals and families across the state navigate life changes caused by brain injury.

Learn more about the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska and its services by visiting biane.org/about.

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF, midlandscommunity.org) serves as a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals and “Invest in the Power of Community.”

MCF plays an integral part in the community by serving Sarpy and Cass counties in the areas of arts, community and economic development, education, health and human services. MCF:

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

In addition, MCF manages 160 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past year, MCF infused nearly $2.2 million back into the community through its grants, discretionary gifts and charitable fund contributions. Learn more at www.midlandscommunity.org.

MICAH House (themicahhouse.org), a homeless shelter in Council Bluffs, has provided safety and security to children, families and women for more than 30 years. Located on the Charles E. Lakin Human Services Campus, MICAH House serves hundreds of homeless individuals each year – and more than half are children. One focus is to keep families together, while reducing the amount of trauma children experience during a difficult time in their lives. The BUDDY program provides an opportunity for MICAH House children to play, learn and grow. In January 2019, MICAH House expanded services to include a 26-bed woman’s shelter and health care clinic. The shelter offers a therapeutic healing environment and includes a full-time therapist onsite. The three-exam room clinic will allow MICAH House clients and community members access to medical and dental services five days a week. For more information, please visit www.themicahhouse.org.

Mosaic in Omaha’s (mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/omaha) purpose is to “love and serve,” and its mission is to “embrace God’s call to relentlessly pursue opportunities to empower people.” The values woven through our work to serve those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and others with diverse needs include: belonging, connection, faithfulness and especially grit during these challenging times.

“To empower” at Mosaic means helping those we serve achieve their best or most meaningful life by providing truly specialized services to help them achieve their goals and dreams, working with those we serve to have closer ties to the community to open up volunteer and employment opportunities for them and Mosaic standing alongside those we serve to advocate both with and for them to bring awareness to issues that affect their lives and promote public policy that positively impacts them.

This empowerment of people we support ranges from helping someone communicate for the first time to helping another gain enough independence to secure a job and live in their own home. If you would like to learn more or to donate, please visit www.mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/omaha.

Founded in 2003, Nebraska Folklife (NF, nebraskafolklife.org) is a nonprofit arts and humanities organization that serves as the state’s public folk and traditional arts program. Our mission is to foster, sustain and increase awareness of Nebraska’s living cultural heritage. We focus on educating both residents and visitors about the rich cultural diversity and traditional art forms that exist in our state and showing how all Nebraskans contribute to our shared cultural identity.

NF has created portable educational trunks featuring many of Nebraska’s diverse cultures for use anywhere. We assist traditional artists in exhibiting, performing and sharing their work with the public. We partner with ethnic organizations and other groups to host engaging, free community events.

Humans have a knack for passing on traditions, new and old, so please share what you’ve been up to! For more information and to get involved, please visit nebraskafolklife.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. 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) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood.

Bridges to Hope (bridgestohopene.org) is a nonprofit organization serving men and women who’ve been incarcerated. This is done by providing tangible items such as furniture, clothing and household goods, donated by community members. One of the main obstacles we hear about is lack of housing for someone with a record.

For those who have been incarcerated, affordable housing is crucial for their successful reintegration back into society. Bridges to Hope is addressing this obstacle by developing a Tiny Home Village that will provide permanent supportive housing for a total of 20 individuals and/or small families. These homes will range in size between 250-500 square feet, and each will have its own sleeping area, kitchenette and bathroom with shower. Having their own individual home differs from communal living solutions by giving each person a feeling of worth, therefore a great buy-in to their community village.

To learn more, visit our website at bridgestohopene.org.

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

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

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

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

Together, we can end child abuse. Project Harmony (www.projectharmony.com) is boldly focused on ending the cycle of child abuse and neglect in our community. We have reimagined how communities can come together by leveraging resources to respond to, treat and ultimately prevent child abuse. Project Harmony restores courage, facilitates healing and empowers each of us to be someone in the life of a child. Take the pledge to be someone in the life of a child today at ProjectBeSomeone.org.

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

Heartland Hope Mission (HeartlandHopeMission.org) is a faith-based organization that is more than a pantry and dedicated to helping families achieve self-sufficiency. They provide clients with a week’s worth of food, along with clothing, diapers, job resources and community referrals to empower them to make positive changes in their lives. They also offer case-management, senior pantry deliveries, rural outreach, crisis response, additional resources for new or expecting mothers and a holiday program that provides around 4,000 children with new toys at Christmas! In addition to Omaha, their outreach pantries serve Valley, Macy and Walthill. Currently, families are struggling due to the effects from inflation, causing pantry numbers to soar over 50% higher than normal. With the increased demand for food and basic necessities, volunteers and donations are needed to continue surrounding clients with resources to become food secure and self-sufficient in a hope-filled environment! You can help by visiting HeartlandHopeMission.org to sign up to volunteer or make a donation.

Break away from the pack of ordinary after-school programs with Girls on the Run of Nebraska (GOTR, GOTRNebraska.org), which will celebrate its 20th anniversary next school year.

Girls on the Run teams meet twice weekly each season to build skills in goal-setting, communication and decision making while they train to complete a 5K run/walk with other GOTR teams. Since its inception with 11 girls in Lincoln in 2003, GOTR-Nebraska has expanded to serve more than 24,000 girls at 100+ sites across the state.

Teams of third through sixth grade girls are coached by volunteers who help girls put their best foot forward with friendship, physical activity and 5K fun. The GOTR 5K is a celebration of every girl’s hard work, and the entire GOTR experience is valuable to promote physical, social and emotional growth.

“GOTR is an excellent way for my daughter to develop relationships with other children, as well as promote good health and exercise,” wrote one parent. “She absolutely adored her coaches, who were always supportive and helpful.”

To learn more about Girls on the Run, visit www.GOTRNebraska.org.

The Foster Care Closet (fostercarecloset.org) was created 17 years ago to speak dignity into the lives of children during the trauma of being removed from their home and transitioned into foster care. We support kids through their entire foster care journey.

We give each kid five new (not used) outfits upon entry into the foster care system and continue to provide new clothing twice a year for as long as the child remains in foster care. Our foster parents schedule a time to shop with us and every kid gets half an hour of their own shopping time.

We do not believe foster care should start in a cubicle or at the police station. We provide a quiet environment for them to begin the transition into foster care. The Foster Haven was intentionally designed to accommodate any special needs for the child or for their caregiver.

We provide a meal of the child’s choice, and we are available 24/7 for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to bring a child to be with us before they must enter the foster care system.

We have trained staff to support children in those first hours of their foster care journey. We also have a mobile closet program to reach kids in all 92 counties of Nebraska. For more information, please visit www.fostercarecloset.org.

At Canopy South (canopysouth.org), we believe that by changing the environment, we can change outcomes for people who live there. We are breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty with a coordinated and holistic revitalization of neighborhoods in South Omaha. Our nonprofit organization is one of 28 members across the country following a national model established by Purpose Built Communities. Our work is grounded in four fundamental focus areas; developing high quality mixed-income housing, establishing an equitable cradle-to-career education pipeline, enhancing community vibrancy and elevating economic vitality.

We serve as an incubator, convenor and catalyst for change at the neighborhood level to ensure our vision of “a diverse, thriving community full of choice and equitable opportunity for residents – new and existing – of every generation and culture” becomes a reality.

For more information visit www.canopysouth.org or give us a call at (402) 916-9293.

FAMILY, Inc. (www.familyia.org) is a human services organization with a mission to engage and educate our community, inspiring a healthy future through literacy, family and public health services. At FAMILY, Inc. they envision a resilient community built on strong partnerships and trust with equitable opportunities to thrive. They are committed to building a better future for our community through our children. FAMILY, Inc. provides the right support 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).

Did you know one in 26 people are diagnosed with epilepsy, or that one in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime?

The Epilepsy Foundation (epilepsy.com/local/nebraska), in collaboration with our community and network partners, connects the people, data and resources needed to address challenging health problems associated with seizures and epilepsy and promotes education, policy, research and systemic change that will foster measurable and sustainable improvement for all people living with epilepsy.

We are fiercely committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska provides seizure alert monitors to those in need, responds 24/7 to information and referral requests through the Helpline, educates our community on Seizure First Aid, hosts support groups, promotes grassroots advocacy efforts and holds local awareness campaigns throughout the year. Together, we are elevating the conversation around epilepsy and fighting the stigmas that persist around living with seizures.

Let’s END EPILEPSY TOGETHER! To learn more, visit www.epilepsy.com/local/nebraska.

Community Foundation for Western Iowa (www.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 $13 Million to organizations creating impact in Western Iowa. Last year, generous donors awarded 280 grants to organizations totaling an astounding $5.6 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 www.givewesterniowa.org.

Child Saving Institute (CSI, childsaving.org) was founded in 1892 and has been dedicated to the needs of children and families in the greater Omaha area for over 131 years. The mission is “responding to the cry of a child,” but it is the vision that guides us as we work to give the children we serve safe, happy childhoods. CSI’s vision is that “all children have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved.”

CSI’s programming is diverse, but so are the needs of today’s children and youth. Services address the need for early childhood development and high-quality childcare, which we offer through our early childhood education program at our two Omaha childcare centers. Other services offered focus on the prevention, intervention and healing from child abuse, neglect and trauma. Programs include in-home support for families struggling to stay together, foster care, mental health services including therapy and medication management, parent support and education programs for young and expectant parents, an emergency shelter for youth temporarily displaced and who have nowhere to live and adoption services for older children and youth in foster care.

With your support, CSI continues to serve nearly 3,000 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, improving children’s lives and helping them discover the joy of childhood. For more information, visit childsaving.org or call (402) 553-6000. Stay connected with CSI by following the organization on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

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

These services and programs are free of charge to people who are legally blind, regardless of spiritual beliefs or faith background.

For more information, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981 or email info@christianrecord.org.

Duet’s (duetne.org) roots date back to 1968 as the first community-based service provider for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Today, they support over 500 people with a person-centered focus through engaging day, residential, employment, and behavioral health services immersed in the communities of Cass, Douglas, Dodge, Hall, Sarpy and Washington counties.

By offering a comprehensive selection of support, people can choose exactly what they want. Duet honors and encourages personal choice as to supports desired, frequency of receiving supports and location of support.

Duet is privileged to work alongside so many people in their mission to Develop, Unite, Empower, Together.

For more information, visit www.duetne.org or call (402) 444-6500. You can also find Duet on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making higher education opportunities accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and communities. CINCF supports the missions of its 13 member institutions and promotes the high quality and affordability of member colleges to prospective students. For more information, visit www.cincfoundation.org.

CINCF Board officers are Chair, Greg Hohl (president, Wahoo State Bank); Vice Chair, Dr. Darrin Good (president, Nebraska Wesleyan University); Secretary, Jody Horner (president, Midland University); and Treasurer, Steve Ritzman (president, SR Consulting).

“We are very pleased to have these talented individuals guiding Nebraska’s private college foundation,” said Treva Haugaard, CINCF’s executive director. “Their experience and business expertise will further enhance the educational opportunities available for students.”

CINCF’s 13 member colleges and universities include Bellevue University, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Clarkson College, College of Saint Mary, Concordia University, Creighton University, Doane University, Hastings College, Midland University, Nebraska Methodist College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Union College and York University.

Angels Among Us (myangelsamongus.org) provides financial and emotional support 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 or $750 a month, depending on household income levels, 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.

In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched 11 emotional support programs to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs for teens, kids, siblings and caregivers; events for the family to attend together; and bereavement support services are now offered. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.

Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 620 families with over $4 million in support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.

Serving nearly 600 students, the schools in the CUES School System (cuesschools.org) – Sacred Heart, All Saints and Holy Name – anchor their East Omaha neighborhoods. CUES provides a safe place for students to learn academic, social and interpersonal skills. Many CUES families face difficult financial circumstances and simply cannot afford to pay full tuition. They choose our Schools to give their children a faith-based education. CUES students thrive in a culture of love, kindness and excellence.

THE GAP

  • CUES never turns away a child due to inability to pay!
  • Underwriting the cost of education is our greatest need.
  • The total cost to educate a child is $12,200 per year.
  • Every CUES family qualifies for financial education assistance.

CUES IMPACT

  • 65% of our families live in neighborhoods that fall 42 percent below Omaha’s median income.
  • 93% of our students are students of color.
  • 96% of CUES alumni graduated from high school in 2022, compared to 74% for Omaha Public Schools.

Learn more about CUES at cuesschools.org.

For 15 years, Autism Action Partnership (AAP, autismaction.org) has provided targeted programs and services to fill critical gaps in the autism community.

AAP’s work on behalf of the autism community focuses on creating more SUPPORT, INCLUSION and PROSPERITY for those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). When AAP began this work in 2008, one in every 88 children was diagnosed with ASD. Today, that number has more than doubled to one in every 36 children (CDC 2023). The CDC also estimates the autistic adult population in the United States exceeds seven million (2.2% of our population).

AAP provides after-school programming for autistic adolescents, a workforce development program, a two-year independent living program for autistic young adults, events for individuals and families, inclusion training, first responder training and more!

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

DON’T MISS OUT!

The Supporting Nonprofits feature is an excellent opportunity for your organization to promote your mission and the work you’re doing in the communities you serve!

The next feature will be in the January 2024 issue.

Please call (402) 466-3330 or email shae@strictlybusinessomaha.com if you are interested in participating!