Strictly Business is honored to be featuring our amazing Omaha non-profit organizations this month! Nonprofits play a vital role in strengthening communities by addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges that often go unmet. They provide essential services such as food assistance, housing support, education programs, and mental health care, often serving vulnerable or underserved populations. Beyond direct aid, nonprofits foster community engagement, volunteerism, and advocacy, empowering individuals to participate in creating positive change.
There are so many ways individuals can support Omaha’s local non-profits. From volunteering and making monetary donations to talking to friends or families about non-profits, community support and awareness is the key to achieve each non-profits goal.
Businesses can also support nonprofits in meaningful ways that strengthen both the community and their own brand. Through financial contributions, sponsorships, or donations, companies can help nonprofits expand their reach and impact. Many businesses also encourage employee volunteerism or offer matching gift programs, fostering a culture of social responsibility.
Supporting nonprofits is more than a generous act; it’s a powerful act of compassion and hope. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every shared resource can change a life, uplift a struggling family, or offer comfort to someone in crisis.
Nonprofits are often the quiet heroes, stepping in when no one else can, offering food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless, or a safe space to the vulnerable. When you support a nonprofit, you’re not just giving money or time—you’re giving dignity, opportunity, and a chance at a better future. In a world that can feel divided or overwhelming, that kind of impact is deeply human—and truly priceless.
Let Strictly Business open your eyes to the amazing work of Omaha non-profits and get involved with one near and dear to your heart today!
Avenue Scholars is a leader in bridging the gap between education and business for Scholars, guaranteeing careers for youth of hope and need through supportive relationships, individualized coaching, education and training.
Avenue Scholars is a pioneering organization dedicated to ensuring that area students seamlessly connect their education with the business world around them, helping Scholars realize their full potential in the community at large.
Avenue Scholars provides services on a continuum to support and empower students from their high school years into the workforce. Their tried and true method integrates academic learning with career preparation to transform the Scholars’ dreams into tangible, professional successes.
Avenue Scholars’ students are selected for their perseverance and ambition, providing them with the tools and opportunities to further overcome life’s obstacles to excel in the careers in which they are deeply passionate.
To connect about becoming a prospective partner or supporter, email Audrey at agustin@avescholars.org, and for more information, visit Avenue Scholars’ websites at avescholars.org and avescholars.org/business-partners.
Bridges to Hope is a privately funded nonprofit organization dedicated to serving justice-involved individuals as they transition back into the community. Recognizing the many barriers faced after incarceration, we provide essential, tangible items, such as clothing, hygiene products, furniture, and household goods, completely free of charge. Our goal is to offer dignity, stability, and a fresh start to those seeking to rebuild their lives. To help support our mission, we operate Bud’s Thrift Shoppe, a public resale store with all proceeds benefiting Bridges to Hope. In response to the growing need for safe and supportive housing, we are expanding our services with the development of Hope Village, a transformative new initiative. Hope Village will feature 18 tiny homes offering permanent supportive housing to individuals often facing rejection due to criminal history. This community will provide not only a place to live, but also resources that promote long-term stability and independence.’
For more information: https://www.bridgestohopene.org
Educare of Omaha, Inc. 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 a century, Child Saving Institute (CSI) (childsaving.org) has been an unwavering force for good in Omaha. We champion what’s best for each child and family with a compassionate approach rooted in heart and humanity. Our diverse programs and services strengthen families and communities, offering a spectrum of care across mental health, early childhood development, critical response and supportive programs. Our 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 us as we build a brighter future for Omaha, one family at a time.
Angel Guardians, Inc. 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 www.angelguardians.org or email us at info@angelguardians.org.
Community Foundation of Western Iowa 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 320 grants to organizations totaling more than $3.8 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.
Learn more information at: www.givewesterniowa.org.
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) is the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization. Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life better while driving toward cures with a mission to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone people need to get energy from food. T1D strikes both children and adults, and its onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. People with T1D depend on external insulin, via injection or infusion with an insulin pump, to survive. There are no cures. Breakthrough T1D is working to change that.
You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering or fundraising.
Events:
Walk – October 5, 2025; Mahoney State Park
Community Summit – February 21, 2026; Scott Conference Center
Gala – April 25, 2026; CHI Health CenterPrograms:
Research – Two core objectives: Curing T1D & Improving Lives.
Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & policies for affordable/accessible therapies.
Early Detection – Educational program on screening for T1D.
Community Outreach – Educational resources & support for people affected by T1D.
Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.
Learn more information at BreakthroughT1D.org
Angels Among Us 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 800 families have been supported with over $5.5 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 www.myangelsamongus.org.
Completely KIDS educates and empowers KIDS and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community. Each year, the organization serves almost 3,000 Omaha-area KIDS, primarily between the ages of 4 and 14, and their families. Through a holistic and compassionate approach, Completely KIDS offers a broad range of programs, including after-school and summer activities, adult education classes, teen employment opportunities, mental health services and a Weekend Food Program. These initiatives aim to break the cycle of poverty and provide the essential skills necessary for long-term success and personal growth. With a strong commitment to collaboration and community involvement, Completely KIDS partners with local schools, shelters and agencies to ensure comprehensive, wraparound support for families. The organization relies on the ongoing generosity of individuals, businesses and community partners to maintain and continuously expand its vital services, making a lasting positive impact on the lives of KIDS and families throughout Omaha.
For more information: https://completelykids.org/.
More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and 49% of cancer patients report being in debt due to treatment. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s (HCF) 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 who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, 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 having a presence at all events year-round.
Other ways to show your support include volunteering, joining the Impact Guild, setting up a recurring monthly gift or including HCF as a beneficiary in your legacy plans.
Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life. Learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
The Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation, 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 www.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.
Nebraska Community Foundation 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.
Nebraska Community Foundation was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities throughout the state to grow and prosper. Since then, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places. They believed that with the right tools and resources, people could build the hometowns of their dreams. Hometowns that are poised to attract families, lay a progressive and sustainable foundation, create opportunities, emanate pride and welcome everyone.
NCF’s mission, vision and values guide its commitment to helping Greater Nebraska reach its full potential. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) 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, Household Hazardous Waste Program and our newest Sustainability Seal Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/awareness.
To learn more, call us at (402) 486-4562 or visit www.knb.org for more information.
The Stephen Center, 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.
Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) 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.
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 NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play a vital role in fostering a dynamic, active and interconnected Nebraska community.
Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
Carole’s House of Hope (CHH) is a transformative transitional living facility in Omaha founded by Carole and David Kinlow in 2014. It provides safe, stable housing for women and children who have aged out of foster care or are facing homelessness. With space to support up to 60 residents annually, CHH offers more than shelter—it provides a foundation for independence, healing, and 
growth. Born from Carole Kinlow’s decades of service in crisis pregnancy, domestic violence support, and housing advocacy, CHH reflects her deep belief in second chances and the power of structured love. Every aspect of CHH is designed to uplift the unseen and overlooked, offering residents tools and community support to build better futures. Carole’s legacy of compassion continues to ripple through her family and community, proving that one woman’s vision can truly change lives.
For more information: https://www.caroleshouseofhope.org
Omaha Bridges 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.
American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers: heart disease 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.
Since 1923, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) 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 area.
Learn more at UnitedWayMidlands.org.
Founded in 1986, MICAH House 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 www.themicahhouse.org.
Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to 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.
The Team Jack Foundation’s mission is to raise research funds and awareness for childhood brain cancer. The disease affects nearly 5,000 children each year and is the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. Each year, less than four percent of U.S. federal funding is solely dedicated to childhood cancer research, with even less spent on childhood brain cancer research. The Team Jack Foundation has raised over $15 million for research and has invested in 20 projects nationally. Nebraska ranks seventh in the nation in incidence rate and in the top ten for mortality. To help Nebraska children, one priority for the Foundation is the development of a childhood brain tumor program in Omaha, Nebraska. Team Jack has committed $6.5 million toward the program at UNMC and Children’s Nebraska. The Foundation will continue working directly with world-renowned researchers to develop relevant and impactful research initiatives.
To learn more, visit: https://teamjackfoundation.org
Outlook Enrichment is celebrating 25 years of advancing its mission, which 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 empowers people living with vision loss with the skills and tools to achieve their goals. The organization helps neighbors living with blindness or low vision live independently, confidently engage in their communities and continue to do the things they love through an array of programs.
“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 Omaha-based not-for-profit Outlook Enrichment; visit this page for donation and volunteer opportunities: https://www.outlooken.org/give/.
Together, we can end child abuse. Project Harmony 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.
Leading tech nonprofit AIM Institute has fostered the growth of the region’s tech sector for 32 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 32 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. AIM Institute President and CEO Dala Alphonso is committed to doubling AIM’s impact by 2030.
How AIM Institute builds tech talent: meets adults and youth at their level; collaborates with local tech leaders to build accessible pathways into tech; promotes the hiring of home-grown talent; creates pipelines to attract and retain tech talent in the Heartland.
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: aiminstitute.org.
Vision Maker Media (VMM) (visionmakermedia.org) continues empowering Native people to share stories to educate, inspire, and connect communities. As a national leader in Indigenous storytelling, VMM supports and distributes Native films that encourage cultural exchanges.
VMM’s commitment to education shows through a new YouTube channel called iNative Shorts for Kids. Designed for children ages 6–12, the channel features short film curations from VMM’s archives. Join Frankie the Hawk, as he shares Indigenous knowledge and sparks curiosity and critical thinking. Watch at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.
A second year running, VMM continues the Native American Film Series, a free monthly public screening at UNL’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Each event features films that stimulate dialogue and new knowledge.
Through these programs, Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate.
The CUES School System is a bold educational initiative providing centralized leadership and governance to three urban elementary schools in Omaha, NE – All Saints, Holy Name, and Sacred Heart – serving a majority of low-income students and families. We combine innovative instructional methods with wrap-around services to support students and their families. These services include student and family support, the LIFT program in partnership with Boys Town, and access to counseling services.
• CUES never turns away a child due to inability to pay.
• Underwriting the cost of education is our greatest need.
• The cost to educate one child for the 2024-2025 academic year is $14,750.
• 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
To learn more visit cuesschools.org
For over 17 years, Autism Action Partnership (AAP) 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.
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.
Firefly 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 www.firefly.kids or call (712) 256-9566. Firefly can also be found on Facebook (@fireflykids) and LinkedIn (@Firefly).
Welcome to Hiya, 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.
MCF plays an integral part in the community by serving Sarpy and Cass counties in the areas of arts, community/economic development, education, and 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;
• Provides new technology for schools and nonprofit organizations;
• Treats school children to educational field trips;
• Supports educational arts programming and STEM initiatives; and 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 more than $3.1 million back into the community through its grants, discretionary gifts, charitable fund contributions, and program services. Learn more at www.midlandscommunity.org.
The mission of HALLINS is to stimulate constructive change in underserved communities through music and culture. To fulfill this mission, HALLINS produces two flagship events: the LOVAM Jazz Festival and the Omaha Jazz Experience (OJE).
The LOVAM Jazz Festival is a one-of-a-kind, free music event that attracts visitors from across the country to Omaha. Now in its thirteenth year, the 2025 festival is scheduled for August 30 at Turner Park in Midtown Crossing. Over the years, LOVAM has featured an impressive roster of jazz legends, including Rick Braun, Peter White, Najee, Richard Elliot, Norman Brown, Adam Hawley, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, Nelson Rangell, Paul Taylor, Brian Simpson, and Jackiem Joyner. The 2025 lineup promises to continue that tradition of excellence.
The Omaha Jazz Experience is a ticketed concert and annual fundraiser that captures the same vibrant energy and spirit as the LOVAM Jazz Festival. On Saturday, July 19th of 2025 audiences will enjoy an unforgettable evening of smooth jazz as powerhouse talents Marion Meadows, Alex Bugnon, and Kim Waters take the stage at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite. Proceeds from the event support HALLINS programming and ensure the LOVAM Jazz Festival remains free and accessible to the community.
In addition to live performances, HALLINS is committed to removing barriers to jazz education for young musicians. Many students lack access to formal training or opportunities to refine their craft. HALLINS addresses this gap through a structured Masterclass program held during the LOVAM weekend, providing young musicians with hands-on coaching and mentorship from Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated jazz artists.
For more information: https://hallinscorp.com
The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. 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.
Established in 1972, Santa Monica House 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.
The YMCA of Omaha 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.