At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Our commitment to supporting local nonprofits stems from recognizing their pivotal role in addressing the pressing needs of our community’s most vulnerable segments. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of those who are vulnerable in our community and work to help support causes many of us connect to.

These organizations not only champion causes that resonate deeply with us, but also play a significant role in job creation, providing invaluable opportunities for individuals – be they workers, volunteers or donors – to contribute meaningfully to causes larger than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors, keeping a culture of humanity, art and philanthropy alive.

EPIC for Girls (epicforgirls.org) is a cornerstone in Omaha’s sports community, dedicated to ensuring equal access, resources and safe playing space for girls of color in sports. With a mission to level the playing field, EPIC provides funding to various partners, enabling them to create impactful programming. To see how you can contribute to this mission and help young athletes gain access to the same sporting opportunities and experiences as their peers, visit epicforgirls.org.

Programs and their partnerships include: Cycling (Nebraska Interscholastic Cycling), Basketball (Lady Express United, Nebraska Hoops Elite, The Keys Foundation, Retro Hoops, Omaha South High School, Omaha North High School and Benson High School), Dance (Pear Tree Performing Arts, The Rose Theater and I Heartbeat Dance), Boxing ( B&B Academy), Soccer (Football for the World and The Simple Foundation), Softball (Black Police Officers Association), Volleyball (Girls Inc., James Scurlock Sports Academy, Omaha Starlings, Ivy League Youth Sports Academy, Omaha Northwest and Bryan High School), Golf (EgoFree Academy) and Internships (Lozafina, J’s Braintrust and Ego Free Academy).

Omaha Bridges (omabop.com) is a transformative nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty in the Omaha and Council Bluffs communities by fostering sustainable solutions and empowering individuals to achieve economic stability. With a focus on education, collaboration and resource development, Omaha Bridges connects individuals and families to the tools they need to build a better future.

The organization addresses systemic barriers through innovative programs and partnerships while providing practical support such as job readiness training, financial awareness workshops and life skill coaching opportunities. Omaha Bridges works closely with local businesses, community leaders and social services to create pathways for success, advocating for systemic changes that benefit underserved populations.

Their holistic approach emphasizes individual empowerment and community-wide impact, making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve. Omaha Bridges envisions a thriving Omaha where everyone has the opportunity to overcome challenges, build resilience and reach their full potential. For more information, visit omabop.com.

Angel Guardians, Inc. (angelguardians.org) has a mission to foster abilities as well as 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 angelguardians.org or email us at info@angelguardians.org.

The mission of HALLINS (hallinscorp.com) is to stimulate constructive change in underserved communities through music and culture. HALLINS produces two prominent events to execute the mission and objectives of the corporation: LOVAM Jazz Festival and the Omaha Jazz Experience (OJE).

The LOVAM Jazz Festival is a one-of-a-kind, FREE music event that draws visitors from across the country to Omaha. The thirteenth annual LOVAM festival is scheduled to take place on August 30 at Turner Park in Midtown Crossing.  Renowned jazz musicians have graced the stage in previous years, including Rick Braun, Peter White, Richard Elliot, Adam Hawley, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Jonathan Butler, Nelson Rangel, Najee, Paul Taylor, Brian Simpson, Jackiem Joyner and many more.  The 2025 LOVAM festival will not disappoint jazz enthusiasts!

The Omaha Jazz Experience is a ticketed concert scheduled for July 19 at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. This event mirrors LOVAM, showcasing renowned recording artists alongside beloved local talents. Proceeds from OJE contribute to the essential programming of HALLINS and help ensure that the LOVAM festival remains accessible to all as a free event.

Additionally, addressing barriers of access and inclusivity in jazz education for young musicians in North Omaha is another major objective for HALLINS. Many young aspiring jazz musicians tend to struggle to find access to comprehensive education and guidance in mastering their skills. HALLINS addresses this need by providing structure Masterclass where jazz students receive coaching from Grammy awarded and nominated jazz musicians, during the weekend of both LOVAM and OJE.

Nebraska Sports Council-Logo

The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) (NebraskaSportsCouncil.com) stands as a premier organization fostering community engagement through sports and physical activity. At the heart of its initiatives are the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, events that unite businesses in friendly competition, promoting teamwork and healthy lifestyle. These games serve as a platform for corporations to build camaraderie among employees while emphasizing the importance of fitness and well-being.

The NSC, committed to enriching sports culture in Nebraska, actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Corporations aligning with the NSC gain exposure and contribute to the development of a healthier and more connected community. Sponsorship opportunities encompass a range of engagement levels, from event-specific branding to sustained partnerships, allowing businesses to tailor their involvement according to their marketing and charitable objectives. By supporting the NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play a vital role in fostering a dynamic, active and interconnected Nebraska community. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

LA FUENTE Business Center (lafuentebusinesscenter.org) has served the Latino and Immigrant community since 2006.

Their new name and brand reflect their position as a central source of knowledge and support for entrepreneurs. In the last year, 2024, LA FUENTE has trained more than 300 participants and aspiring entrepreneurs, the majority women of color, through its programs of Financial Stability, Entrepreneurship and Lending.

LA FUENTE’s mission is to provide low-and moderate-income individuals and families with opportunities and tools to achieve financial stability through entrepreneurship.

La Fuente Business Center’s future goals are to reduce the entry barriers to entrepreneurship to increase the number of immigrant-owned small businesses.

For more information, visit lafuentebusinesscenter.org.

The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter (alz.org/Nebraska) is a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Through its mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease, the Association advances research, provides expert care and support, and promotes brain health to reduce the risk of dementia. With a vision of a world without Alzheimer’s, the Association works tirelessly to fund groundbreaking studies, advocate for policies that benefit individuals and families affected by the disease, and offer resources like the 24/7 Helpline and local support groups. Together, we’re making strides toward a future where no one has to face this disease alone. If you are interested in sponsoring an event, please reach out to nebraskainfo@alz.org or visit alz.org/Nebraska.

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 Nebraska School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, Materials Exchange Program, Used Oil Collection Program, Food Waste Reduction Program and Household Hazardous Waste Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/awareness.

To learn more, call us at (402) 486-4562 or visit knb.org for more information.

The Team Jack Foundation (teamjackfoundation.org) is dedicated to advancing groundbreaking research and increasing national awareness of pediatric brain cancer. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $13.7 million and supported 20 research projects globally, including a $6.5 million commitment to the University of Nebraska Medical Center to establish a childhood brain tumor program. Pediatric brain cancer, though relatively rare, is one of the most difficult cancers to treat and remains the leading cause of disease-related deaths among children. Nebraska ranks seventh nationally in brain tumor incidence rates, highlighting the urgent need for continued research, heightened awareness and innovative treatments.

Your support can help change the future for children battling this devastating disease. Visit www.TeamJackFoundation.org to learn more about how you can contribute to funding transformative research and improving outcomes for pediatric brain cancer patients. Together, we can make a difference.

Greetings from COPE (copeinfo.org)! We look forward to a bright 2025 and thank the community for making 2024 a year of growth and development.

Over the past year, COPE has served approximately 250 families monthly with clothing, diapers and food from our food pantry. The annual Christmas program brightened the holidays for more than 300 families. Our community’s support through time, talent and treasure continues to positively impact COPE’s ability to support families in Western Douglas County. We thank you for your support.

This year, COPE is actively working to provide a comprehensive housing stability program with case management and utility assistance to support our neighbors in Western Douglas County. As our federal grant funds run out, the community’s ongoing support will be vital to the successful future of this program. You can become a COPE supporter by visiting copeinfo.org/ways-to-help/be-a-supporter.

For over a century, Child Saving Institute (CSI) (childsaving.org) has been an unwavering force for good in Omaha. CSI champion what’s best for each child and family with a compassionate approach rooted in heart and humanity. Their diverse programs and services strengthen families and communities, offering a spectrum of care across mental health, early childhood development, critical response and supportive programs. Their team is committed to finding the right path and combination of services to meet each child and every family where they are so all families can thrive.

Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors. Stand with CSI as they build a brighter future for Omaha, one family at a time.

Learn more about Child Saving Institute at childsaving.org.

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 $22 Million to organizations creating impact in western Iowa. In 2024, generous donors awarded 307 grants to organizations totaling over $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.

United Way of the Midlands Logo

Since 1923, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) (UnitedWayMidlands.org) has served the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro by bridging the business and not-for-profit sectors and raising money to support our community’s most impactful health and human service programs. UWM’s more than 100 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 advance a better tomorrow.

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 our community.

Learn more at UnitedWayMidlands.org.

Serving over 600 students, the schools in the CUES School System (cuesschools.org) – All Saints, Holy Name and Sacred Heart – anchor their 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 is $14,750 per year.
  • Every CUES family qualifies for financial education assistance.

CUES IMPACT

  • 92% of our students are students of color.
  • 100% of our students receive free and reduced meals.
  • 90% of CUES graduates have graduated from high school since 2018.

There is no one look for homelessness—and no one way toward homelessness. No matter their circumstances or reason for seeking organizational assistance, Youth Emergency Services (YES) (yesomaha.org) brings Omaha’s youth to a safe space to call their own.

As part of its mission to provide housing and support to youth experiencing instability, crisis and homelessness, YES strives to help young people, aged 16-24, meet their basic needs—from food security, to hygienic maintenance, to housing and more. Through the agency’s programming pathway, youth are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to become independent and self-sufficient within the community.

  1. First, struggling or homeless youth on the streets are identified by YES outreach workers and given bags of snacks and hygiene items. Youth are then also invited to enjoy a warm meal, take a hot shower and find additional resources at YES’ Street Outreach Center.
  2. After proper screening, youth may then be housed at YES’ Emergency Shelter for up to 90 days, where they receive their own bedroom and support from a trained staff member to navigate personal challenges and/or apply to one of YES’ long term housing programs—Transitional Living Program or Maternity Group Home Program.
  3. After completing a long-term housing program, youth can choose to receive an additional 12 month of YES services—now in their own apartment—through the agency’s Transition in Place program.

At the completion of YES’ programming, youth are equipped with the skills and resources they need to survive and thrive on their own in the community. To learn more about YES’ mission and programs, please visit yesomaha.org/youth-resources.

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.

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.

For over 16 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 36 (CDC, 2023). 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.

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.

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 180 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past year, MCF infused nearly $2.8 million back into the community through its grants, discretionary gifts and charitable fund contributions. Learn more at midlandscommunity.org.

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 270 communities. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

The Women’s Center for Advancement (WCA) (wcaomaha.org) believes everyone deserves safety and the opportunity to lead a self-determined life free from abuse. Serving Douglas County and the Omaha metro, the WCA is committed to preventing and addressing the impacts of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and stalking.

The need is urgent. Last year, the WCA supported 4,335 families and responded to 5,692 police reports and 10,726 hotline calls. Comprehensive services include legal aid, advocacy, housing, counseling and prevention education.

The WCA’s Annual Tribute to Women Luncheon on Wednesday, June 25, celebrates inspiring leaders shaping Omaha’s future. This is your chance to honor incredible achievements and make a difference. To donate and get involved, visit wcaomaha.org today!

Learn more about how to support and partner with the WCA, sponsor an event, host a drive or support families in need by emailing development@wcaomaha.org. Together, we can create change.

Vision Maker Media’s (VMM) (visionmakermedia.org) mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. By funding and working with producers to develop, produce and distribute programs, VMM supports training to increase the number of Native Americans and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs.

With initiatives like the Creative Shorts Fellowship (CSF) and the Native Youth Media Project (NYMP), VMM fosters the next generation of storytellers. CSF equips Native filmmakers with mentorship, funding and resources to craft innovative short films that honor cultural traditions through modern media. NYMP empowers young storytellers with hands-on training in media production, amplifying innate storytelling talent and sharing finished films with communities. VMM amplifies Native voices and inspires and connects generations through the art of storytelling.

Vision Maker Media (VMM) envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. Visit visionmakermedia.org.

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 and apartments will work with our Certified Peer Support Specialist to partner with on their journey to independence. We also 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 santamonicahouse.org for more information about the agency, what the future holds and how to help.

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. Offers more than 40 programs for free to people in the Omaha/SWI area making a difference, right here, right now.

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

Outlook Enrichment (outlooken.org/give) Empowers People With Vision Loss.

Outlook’s mission is to positively impact everyone who is blind or visually impaired.

“As we learned more about people who are blind or have low vision and all the work they do, we found a paycheck alone wasn’t independence. We formed Outlook Enrichment several years ago to serve many aspects of their life to help them fulfill their personal and career goals,” says Eric Stueckrath, President and CEO of Outlook.

Outlook Enrichment helps people with vision loss and blindness live life independently while doing the things they love. Outlook Enrichment received a Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics for their effective work.

“We aspire to be the first place people turn to when seeking resources that empower those with vision loss,” said Nina Rongisch, Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment. “We teach independent living skills and offer adaptive recreational and cultural events.”

Help support Outlook Enrichment and visit this page for donation and volunteer opportunities outlooken.org/give.

AIM Institute (aiminstitute.org) Fosters Growth in Our Region’s Tech Sector.

Leading tech nonprofit AIM Institute has fostered the growth of the region’s tech sector for 30 years. AIM’s mission is to grow a strong and diverse tech community through education, career development and outreach. The organization effectively links individuals with technology to enhance their personal and professional growth while bolstering tech resources in the region.

For 30 years, AIM Institute 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.

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.

Annually, AIM helps over 6,000 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 heart.org/nebraska.

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

If YOU are passionate about supporting local cancer patients who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, YOU can get involved by sponsoring one of HCF’s signature events like the Mardi Gras Gala, Oncology Symposium or Heartland Golf Classic, or by becoming an Impact Partner and have a presence at all events year-round.

Other ways YOU can show your support includes volunteering, joining the Impact Guild, setting up a recurring gift or including HCF as a beneficiary in your legacy plans.

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.

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 qualify for levels of $550 or $825 a month, depending on household income, for the duration of their critical treatment plan. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures funds are used for their intended purpose. AAU is the only organization providing long-term sustained funding to pediatric cancer families in the region.

In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched emotional support programming in 2022 to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs include Kids Link, Women’s Recharge, Healing Hearts, and events for the whole family. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of both financial and emotional support.

Since 2006, over 720 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit myangelsamongus.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.

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 active older adults.

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

Learn more at metroymca.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. Our mission is more than words. We always aim to prevent and relieve suffering with every action. The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. Red Cross supporters provide a beacon of hope. From helping during disasters and ensuring access to lifesaving blood, to providing training to save lives and supporting military communities, the Red Cross is there when help can’t wait. To learn more, visit redcross.org.

The Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation (jehfoundation.org), the fundraising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson (MJE) Hospital, is unwavering in its commitment to enhancing community well-being. By mobilizing philanthropic leaders, the foundation ensures that MJE Hospital’s programs and services remain at the forefront of meeting community needs.

Philanthropy fuels the foundation’s 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.

Community involvement is encouraged through donations, planned gifts and corporate sponsorships, each contributing to the foundation’s impactful initiatives. 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.

At Completely KIDS (completelykids.org), we envision a thriving community where every KID and family has the opportunity to succeed. We provide essential support to help break the cycle of poverty and create brighter futures.

Each year, we serve over 2,600 KIDS, ages 4 to 14, and their families across 16 Omaha locations. Our programs include afterschool and summer activities focused on academic growth, creative expression, physical wellness, and skill-building. We also offer essential services like the Weekend Food Program, adult education, mental health support, and a Teen Employment Program.

By working together, we can build a community of hope and possibility for all. Our services rely on the support of individuals and organizations, and there are many ways to get involved—through volunteering, donations, or organizing events. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and create a brighter future for everyone.

Firefly (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 Firefly 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. Firefly 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. Firefly 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 familyia.org or call (712) 256-9566. Firefly. can also be found on Facebook (@fireflykids) and LinkedIn (@Firefly).

Welcome to Hiya (goshophiya.com), a heartfelt initiative blending creativity and compassion. Founded by Alejandra Wells, a high school student, Hiya began as a personal journey to cope with anxiety and depression. Inspired by her own experiences and the loss of a close friend, Alejandra turned her passion for handmade bracelets into a movement to promote mental health awareness among teens.

Hiya operates under a unique “Buy One, Give One” model—every bracelet purchased helps provide one to a teen in need, spreading hope and encouragement. With initiatives like the “Check on Your People” campaign, partnerships with Omaha nonprofits and national healthcare organizations, and the launch of Hiya The Magazine, we aim to foster conversations around mental health and break the stigma for young people everywhere.

Our mission is simple: to empower teens, spark meaningful dialogue, and create a brighter, more compassionate future — one bracelet at a time. Support our cause at goshophiya.com.

Mosaic in Omaha’s (mosaicinfo.org) 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 are 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 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 mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/omaha.

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 them on Facebook under the username @stephencenteromaha.

Do Space (dospace.org) is an innovative and vibrant community technology library. Established in 2015, it has become a premier hub for digital access, learning and exploration. Operated by the nonprofit organization, Community Information Trust, Do Space aims to build digital equity by offering free access to cutting-edge technology and resources to all ages and skill levels. Now located in the Abrahams Branch of Omaha Public Library on 90th and Fort, Do Space offers free access to computers, laptops, 3D printers, virtual reality equipment, a podcast studio and other cutting-edge technologies. With a mission to empower individuals with essential digital skills, the space hosts workshops, mentor appointments and hands-on classes on topics such as coding, digital design, entrepreneurship and more. Learn more at dospace.org or contact us at hello@dospace.org.