The Hope Center for Kids was established in 1998 to serve the needs of Omaha youth and children with year-round programs of faith, education, employment, nutrition and recreation. The mission of The Hope Center for Kids is to faithfully inspire hope in youth and children through education, employability, collaboration and faith. Children ages 5-19 years old have a safe, supportive place to go every weekday afternoon until 7 p.m. Nutritious meals, life and social skills development, academic support and strong positive relationships help young people prepare for a hopeful future. Ty Schenzel is the founder and Executive Director of The Hope Center for Kids.
How did you get started in the business? – In 1991 I read an article in the World Herald about Flannigan High School. The football coach had stepped down to make a statement because no one was coming to the kids’ games. I got an idea to go to Flannigan High and cheer on the kids. This set into motion a journey that God had for me. I felt the need youth and children have for encouragement and support and to know the love of God.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – When the organization outgrew my skill set, it left me feeling inadequate.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Being faithful at The Hope.
Tell me a little about your family. – I have been happily married to Terri for 28 years. I am the proud father of four amazing children Emily (27), Annie (25), Tyler (23) and Turner (21). I have also been blessed with two amazing grandchildren Theo and Violet…hoping for many more to come!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – The two biggest turning points in my life are when I came into a relationship with the Lord and the Flannigan High newspaper article.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Go out for a meal with Terri and catch a movie.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I do a podcast with a gang member weekly (wordzfromthehood.com).
What are you the most proud of? – My marriage and children.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Try to stay clear from the “paralysis of analysis”– don’t take life too seriously.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Passionate.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Make My Life A Prayer To You” by Keith Green.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Preaching.
Which talent would you most like to have? – I’d love to be a professional athlete (I think it may be too late).
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – To run at super speed!
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Unthink by Erik Wahl.
What is your favorite movie? – Dumb & Dumber.
What is your favorite TV show? – ESPN’s SportsCenter.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Louie’s Wine Dive.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Billy Graham.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me via email at ty@hopecenterforkids.com or visit our website at www.hopecenterforkids.com.