Supporting Non-Profits in Lincoln, NE – 2017
In line with our mission and core values here at Strictly Business, we are always urging our readers to be cognizant of those with whom they do business. Atop of the list of items that should guide one’s decision is the emphasis a business places on giving back. We remain staunch advocates for the involvement of our business community with our non-profit community because these partnerships are at the heart of maintaining the quality of life we enjoy here in Lincoln. With the rich diversity of non-profit organizations and the magnitude of our collective efforts, we’re able to successfully meet the spectrum of needs in our community together.
As a business that supports non-profit organizations, your actions speak volumes to the fact that you care about making a positive impact in the lives of your fellow neighbors. Make no mistake, people take notice. Word of mouth is a powerful tool for businesses, and goodwill gestures like supporting non-profit organizations convey that you are concerned with more than just your company’s interests. In leading by example and encouraging others within your business or sphere of influence to join you in your efforts, you are showing your colleagues and employees that you care and that they should too.
By contributing to a cause that truly helps others, and mobilizing efforts within your organization, you’ll find a feeling of satisfaction that’s rewarding beyond measure. Unfortunately it’s just not feasible to contribute to every charity, so you will likely be pulled in many directions when it comes to choosing which ones you want to support. As the goal is to donate money, volunteer, and invest your resources in the areas where they’ll do the most good, there’s more to it than simply selecting a cause you feel strongly about and writing a check. Sadly, we’ve all seen the headlines about non-profits that have misused or misrepresented the funds they’ve been given. This ties up resources that could be put to better use by one of the many wonderful charitable organizations in the area that are making a sizeable impact for the better, both right here in our community and globally. As such, by gaining a basic understanding of where resources are being allocated, you’ll easily be able to justify your contribution because it lines up with your beliefs and ethics. All non-profits are not created equal, so do your research! While raising awareness is incredibly important, actions often do speak louder than words. The work that each non-profit does, and in turn your contribution to their cause, should impact the community in a real and meaningful way.
We all have to make tough decisions as to where we spend our time and money, that’s just a fact of life. It is incredibly important to patronize businesses that make it a priority to give back to the community in which they do business. The many non-profit organizations here in Lincoln that have made it their mission to meet critical needs locally are deserving of our support, and fortunately, it makes our heart swell with pride to see so many of our fellow local businesses doing just that.
We have compiled a list of excellent non-profits, all of which need and welcome your support, and encourage you to get involved with these organizations!
(Click on a thumbnail below to jump to an organization or continue scrolling to read about each)
Nearly 300 babies are born to teenagers each year in Lincoln. If you know a teen parent, tell them about Parent Life (www.yfclincoln.org). We’d love for them to come out and join us. Parent Life is a fun, supportive group of pregnant and parenting teens. We support, encourage, and equip young parents to make good choices and to complete their education.
Parent Life is a ministry of Youth for Christ Lincoln Area, a non-denominational, non-judgmental, non-profit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. We engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high schools and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with God. For more information on Parent Life visit www.yfclincoln.org.
Lincoln SCORE (www.lincoln.score.org) wants YOU! Did you know that 53,377 new businesses were started in 2015 with the assistance of SCORE mentors? Business success is SCORE’S top priority! Every year, SCORE volunteers help thousands of entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in their existing businesses.
Small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth, and SCORE is America’s premier source of free, confidential business advice. Most SCORE mentors have owned and operated their own companies or served in management positions. They understand business challenges because they’ve faced them too. Volunteering at SCORE is a way for you to give back to your community, connect with fellow business owners, and pass on your knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs in your community.
Would you like to assist someone who is considering starting their own business? Do you have experience in business (e.g. leadership, marketing, technology, etc.) and are willing to share your business experience with others? Would you consider sharing your time as a volunteer to encourage small business development? Please give back to the community and join the Lincoln SCORE volunteer team. You can make a difference in the success of a new business and HELP MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE! Take the next step in becoming a volunteer SCORE business mentor.
Please visit www.lincoln.score.org, email infolincoln@scorevolunteer.org or call (402) 437-2409 to learn more about Lincoln SCORE.
Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties (www.communityactionatwork.org) is a non-profit organization that has been serving individuals and families living in poverty in southeast Nebraska since 1965. Through 16 distinct poverty-fighting programs and services, Community Action serves nearly 16,000 individuals and families each year. Its mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability.
For more information, visit www.communityactionatwork.org or call (402) 471-4515.
Everyone needs a break at times. The Autumn House Foundation (www.theautumnhousefoundation.org) is a local non-profit organization providing a temporary break for the caregiver who is caring for a loved one at home. The person with declining health that needs care services would spend the day or a short-term stay in a safe and homelike environment with specially-trained staff providing compassionate care and engaging activities.
By visiting the organization’s website and completing an application, the caregiver can take a few days for themselves after being assured that their loved one is being taken care of in a secure location with all of their needs being met.
Using respite services can support and strengthen a person’s ability to be a caregiver, by relieving stress, restoring energy, and promoting balance in their life. It is estimated that there are over 81,000 unpaid caregivers in Nebraska alone.
For more information, call (402) 475-7755 or visit www.theautumnhousefoundation.org.
Child Guidance Center (www.child-guidance.org) is dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of children and their families in the Lincoln area and surrounding communities.
The CHOICES Program is a drug and alcohol focused outpatient therapy program facilitated by therapists currently serving 32 youth at Mickle Middle School and Northeast High School. This program focuses on substance abuse awareness, assisting youth in making healthy decisions, as well as addressing mental health issues. Students in grades 6 – 12 attend weekly individual and group therapy sessions. Nine students are waiting for services.
The target population for the CHOICES program is students who have been identified as having an issue related to drugs and/or alcohol for themselves or their peers and/or have a family history of substance use. Youth may participate in the program if they are at risk for using substances due to experiencing a mental health issue and/or engaging in other high-risk behaviors.
For more information, contact Melissa Tucci, MA, LMHP, LADC at mtucci@child-guidance.org or (402) 475-7666. www.child-guidance.org.
The American Heart Association (www.heart.org/lincoln) and American Stroke Association is devoted to saving people from two of our nation’s top killers heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5). Powered by millions of volunteers nationwide, the Association’s goal is to improve the cardiovascular health of Americans by 20 percent by 2020, while reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke by 20 percent. Currently, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease and stroke. Through events right here in Lincoln like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Expo and Heart Ball, that startling statistic can change.
For more information, visit www.heart.org/lincoln.
City Impact (www.cityimpact.org) inspires urban youth & their families to transform through God’s love. By living and working alongside the people we serve, we embody the challenges and embrace the goals and dreams of tomorrow—together. City Impact encourages youth within the inner city to use their God-given talents to overcome some of life’s toughest struggles-poverty, homelessness, hunger, substance abuse, illiteracy, crime and hopelessness. Our faith-based and strength-based services foster healthy choices, personal responsibility and servant leadership. By instilling hope and creating opportunities, City Impact meets the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of families living in our under-resourced neighborhoods. We empower people with practical resources, personal confidence and the Gospel from the inside out.
Needs: Monthly mentors, weekly reading tutors during the school year and weekly faith program volunteers.
Contact: Libby Moderow, (402) 380-0194 or lmoderow@cityimpact.org. Follow what’s happening at: facebook.com/cityimpactlincoln.
For more information on City Impact visit www.cityimpact.org.
It started with one home. The Reverend Charles and Alberta Danner lovingly opened their doors and hearts to a homeless child in need. As the number of vulnerable kids in their home grew, so did their needs. But the Lincoln community was there to wrap the couple with support, helping to purchase property and construct the CEDARS Home for Children (www.cedarskids.org).
Seventy years later, providing refuge for children and youth who have no other safe place to spend the night is the heart of CEDARS mission, pursued through comprehensive efforts to help kids in crisis and build strong families.
On CEDARS 70th anniversary, President James Blue points out that this couldn’t be done without continued community support. “Our donors make our organization strong for the children. Together, we are helping our most vulnerable children find safety, stability and permanent families.”
For more information or to donate, call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit www.cedarskids.org.
Help save lives. Donate Blood.
“I’ve never been asked.” That’s the number one reason why people don’t donate blood. Today, the Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB.ORG) is asking you to donate blood to help save lives. Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. Only volunteer blood donors can help ensure blood is available for patients in area hospitals. Nebraska Community Blood Bank has been connecting people who need life-saving blood with generous volunteer donors since 1968. We provide life-saving blood to healthcare facilities in six counties throughout southeast Nebraska, including Bryan Health, Lincoln Surgical Hospital, and Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.
Visit NCBB.ORG to learn more about hosting a blood drive or to sign up to donate blood at a donor center or blood drive near you. Make a date to help save lives.
Voices of Hope (www.voicesofhopelincoln.org) is Lincoln’s 24-hour crisis center for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment and other related forms of abuse. Our services include a 24-hour crisis line (402-475-7273), 24-hour victim advocacy in response to calls from hospitals and law enforcement, and daily walk-in services for safety planning, crisis counseling, assistance with protection orders, etc. Voices of Hope also provides support groups and educational groups, an on-campus advocate at UNL and Nebraska Wesleyan, and educational/training/prevention presentations for the community. Last year, Voices of Hope staff and volunteers answered over 8,000 crisis line calls and provided face-to-face services to approximately 2,000 adult victims and children. Our free and confidential services are available to women and men. Voices of Hope is always in need of financial donations, as well as for basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers/wipes, and office supplies.
For more information, go to: www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Lincoln TeamMates (lincolnteammates.org) is a school-based mentoring program. Mentors meet with their student approximately one hour, once a week during the academic year at the mentee’s school. Mentors serve as a positive role model and build a relationship that offers hope and a positive vision for the student’s future. The goal of the program is to see students graduate from high school and pursue a post-secondary education. More than 95% of Lincoln TeamMates graduates in the past four academic years have indicated that they had plans to attend a post-secondary institution.
During this academic year (2016-17), more than 1,175 students are being served. However, there are still more than 700 students who would better thrive in school, if they had a mentor. TeamMates appreciates that many community businesses encourage and make it possible for their employees to volunteer which serves to enhance Lincoln’s economic future.
For more information about Lincoln TeamMates, please visit lincolnteammates.org.
The STAR Project (www.thestarprojectinc.org) is a 501(c)3 organization based in Nebraska. Our mission is to bring change to the lives of animals who are at risk for unnecessary euthanasia, have suffered abuse and neglect, deemed special needs, rapidly deteriorating in the shelter, or facing breed discrimination. The STAR Project will provide a home through our network of approved foster providers, and offer medical care and treatment until they find their forever home. We rescue animals nationwide, and provide support to the humans who make it possible.
Interested in learning more? Contact us at hello@thestarprojectinc.org or visit our website at www.thestarprojectinc.org.
People’s City Mission (PCM; www.peoplescitymission.org) was founded in 1907 and serves as Lincoln’s primary homeless shelter. PCM provides emergency housing for nearly 350 homeless men, women, and children every night of the year. Its Homeless Prevention Center offers free food, clothing and household items to over 20,000 people with incomes below 150% of the U.S. poverty line. The PCM Free Medical Clinic offers a wide range of free health services to uninsured Lancaster County residents. Last year this clinic experienced almost 18,000 patient visits, making it the third largest free clinic in the country. PCM is helping more than 30,000 individuals each year with its various services, or about 1 in 9 Lincoln residents. PCM receives most of its funding from private donations and gets about 90% of these funds directly to the people who need them.
For more information, please visit People’s City Mission online at www.peoplescitymission.org.
You can help change a life!
Fresh Start (FreshStartHome.org) is a home to 24 women striving to overcome homelessness. They need our help – and yours – because of struggles with addiction, domestic violence, physical or mental health, job loss, or a combination of these. They face overwhelming challenges to move from homelessness to self-sufficiency.
Fresh Start provides food, clothing, safe housing, case management, and supportive services. Fresh Start is more than a shelter; it’s a goals program designed to support women who are working diligently to improve their lives by recognizing and utilizing their strengths.
This year, Fresh Start celebrates 25 years of assisting women in our community. Together we have given a fresh start to over 1,500 women that worked hard for a better life. Your support and generosity helps women who are building a better life and makes our community stronger! Donation Needs: Bus Passes, Paper Goods, Cleaning Supplies and Monetary Contributions. Volunteer Needs: Daisy Thrift Shop Clerks and Event Planning.
Join us online: FreshStartHome.org | Facebook.com/FreshStartHomeLincoln | Twitter.com/FreshStartLNK.
Contact Monica at (402) 475-7777, monicaz@FreshStartHome.org, or visit FreshStartHome.org for more information.
Bright Lights (BrightLights.org) serves elementary and middle school students by providing energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Our half-day classes and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships. Curriculums are STEAM based and class topics include science, technology, math, art, literature and music. Our goal at Bright Lights is to promote the habit of life-long learning while having fun and making friends.
The Bright Lights class schedule comes out in early March and registration begins April 1 at BrightLights.org. Before Care, Lunch Care and bus transportation is available at some class locations. Need-based scholarships are available to students and an international experience is also available for middle school students.
Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.
Not all children are lucky enough to have lives free of abuse or neglect. Some become involved in the juvenile court system through no fault of their own. Court Appointed Special Advocates or CASA for Lancaster County (www.casa4lancaster.org), a local not-for-profit organization, recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers do their own investigation and report their findings directly to the judge. CASA volunteers provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, and ensure that children have safe permanent homes.
To donate, volunteer or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161 or www.casa4lancaster.org.
Nebraska ranks 3rd in diagnosed childhood cancer cases in the United States, but only 4% of all the federally-funded National Cancer Institute’s research budget is dedicated to childhood cancer. This is the reason that Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation (www.sammyssuperheroes.org) exists. Since 2013, Sammy’s has giving away over $300,000 in grants to researcher and doctors who are performing life-saving research. Our goal is to search out and identify doctors who are looking for modern, cutting-edge treatments that take into account the side-effects treatments can have on the delicate development of children. We want to be a catalyst in changing the fact that 1 in 4 children will lose their battle to cancer within the first 5 years of diagnosis. Along with funding research, Sammy’s also is the sole sponsor of all the oncology blankets for Binkeez for Comfort. These blankets are specially made, packaged and approved to be giving to extremely sick kids in oncology units across the country. Awareness is another area where Sammy’s has continued to grow. Being a resource for families going through the same thing that our own Sammy’s did is important. We want to be the shoulder to lean on for those families. Through our website and social platforms like our Legion of Hope group on Facebook, we want to be there to help families through tough times.
For more information you can contact Jeremy Stanislav, Executive Director at jstanislav@sammyssuperheroes.org or (402) 560-1578.
For over 16 years, Domesti-PUPS (www.domesti-pups.org) has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment, to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, our pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The Adoptables program provides rescue dogs with obedience training and placement in their forever homes. Our service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partner.
For more information about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a life-threatening 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 suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise. JDRF is the only global organization with a strategic plan to end T1D. Our plan ensures that there will be an ongoing stream of life-changing therapies that lessen the disease’s impact. We want to keep people with T1D healthy and safe today until we reach our ultimate goal of a cure and universal prevention of T1D, and turn Type One into Type None.
Find out more about our local efforts to support those in our community living with T1D, as well as the research your involvement is helping make possible, by contacting the JDRF Lincoln and Greater Nebraska office at Lincoln.jdrf.org.
Lincoln G.O.L.D (Girls Organization for Leadership and Development; Lincolngold.org) is a local non-profit dedicated to scholarship and leadership. Founded in 2015, this non-profit serves with a two-fold mission. It is a leadership development and community service program for high school junior and senior girls and a scholarship program for Lincoln area high school seniors attending a Nebraska college. Lincoln G.O.L.D was formed by individuals passionate about preparing young women for success and making college more attainable for students who demonstrate leadership and civic sensibilities.
Lincoln G.O.L.D. is now selling tickets for the 2nd annual Gala, to be held on March 18th, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. at the downtown Cornhusker Hotel. Join us for the celebration of the mentorship program and the scholarship auction where we raise money for the Lincoln area senior high students for college.
Go online to Lincolngold.org for information to purchase tickets or email robinnetz@yahoo.com or call (402) 499-7697 for more information.
Friendship Home (www.friendshiphome.org) is Lincoln’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. We save and change lives for approximately 1,600 victims each year by providing safe shelter and crisis services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Shelter at Friendship Home is offered in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families and transitional living. Our advocates work closely with families and empower them to become survivors through safety planning, referrals to resources, support groups and mental health counseling. Friendship Home also provides a safe environment and emotional support to children.
Gift cards for gas and groceries, financial donations and volunteers to help with special events are ways to help.
For more information about Friendship Home, visit www.friendshiphome.org. If you or someone you know needs help, call our confidential help line at (402) 437-9302.
Radio Talking Book Service (RTBS; rtbs.org) serves the state of Nebraska with a mission to provide human-voiced print information to individuals who have visual or physical disabilities which prevent them from reading printed material. Our key programs are the Radio Talking Book Network and Listening Link. The Radio Talking Book Network, founded in 1974, is Nebraska’s only radio reading service. RTBN provides access to 11 newspapers and over 70 magazines. We are blessed with 100 volunteer readers, whose voices are broadcast throughout Nebraska via RTBN’s radio signal or our internet stream on special radios provided at no cost to our listeners. The Listening Link program assists blind, visually impaired, and learning disabled students in eliminating educational barriers they face by providing recordings of textbooks and course material required for degree completion.
Please contact RTBS at (402) 572-3003 for more information or visit rtbs.org to apply for a radio, volunteer, donate, or listen live.
Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) is a statewide movement using philanthropy as a tool to build stronger, more prosperous communities. NCF is a partner for meeting your charitable goals no matter where you live. It’s the way to give back to your hometown.
Thanks to generous donors, in just the last five years more than $125 million has been reinvested in our schools, hospitals, community centers, libraries, fire and rescue units, parks and recreation, youth programs and our natural environment. Thousands of citizens have enjoyed the arts, earned scholarships and received specialized training to grow local economies in Nebraska communities.
NCF is a charitable giving resource for all Nebraskans, offering donor-advised funds, designated funds, field of interest funds and life income funds which provide many tax benefits. Gifts to your hometown can be made using cash, securities, real estate, insurance, ag commodities, retirement plans, bequests and other assets.
Visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7330 or email info@nebcommfound.org for more information.
Community Health Charities of Nebraska (www.chcne.org) is a fundraising family of 19 Nebraska-based affiliates of nationally recognized health charities dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by a chronic health condition. CHC-NE raises vital funds through workplace giving campaigns, corporate matching funds, individual gifts and foundation contributions to benefit these health charities. In Lincoln, we are proud to partner with United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County during the annual United Way/CHC Campaign.
Dollars raised each year help our charities provide support for those with chronic health conditions as well as family members, friends and co-workers affected by chronic illness. They provide programs and services, education and advocacy and funding for vital medical research to help discover breakthrough treatments and the hope of a cure. Thank you for giving the gift of hope through your support.
Lincoln Office: 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 509 | (402) 475-2770 | www.chcne.org | www.facebook.com/CHCNebraska
Junior Achievement of Lincoln (www.jalincoln.org) is building a successful future for our community, one classroom at a time! Each year, 28,000 students in over 100 schools all across southeastern and Central Nebraska are impacted by our messages of financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and business ethics. Our cutting-edge, grade-specific curriculum is delivered in the most dynamic way possible–by hundreds of caring, generous volunteers from the local business community who add their own real-world experience to create a truly meaningful interaction. We also offer programs that connect motivated students with local entrepreneurs to learn about the process of starting a business. Our goal in everything we do is to give students the opportunity to own their future success!
For more information on Junior Achievement of Lincoln or to learn more about becoming a classroom volunteer (it only takes 5 hours a year!), contact Alison Gottsch-Walton at awalton@jalincoln.org or (402) 467-1741.
With a dedicated and united front of staff and volunteers who help the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible, the vision of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (MTKO; www.mtko.org) is to defeat hunger & homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is an inviting hunger relief and outreach center for those in need. Annually, Matt Talbot provides approximately 100,000 nutritious meals and 25,000 homeless prevention services to the working poor and homeless such as housing, case management, drug & alcohol evaluations, life skills classes, nutrition counseling, and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Most importantly, Matt Talbot provides beyond basic needs to embolden people to have hope. Matt Talbot has maintained a 4-star Charity Navigator ranking for three consecutive years and received the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award for the nonprofit sector in 2013.
Contact Information: Susanne Blue, CMSW, Executive Director, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach – (402) 477-4116 | susanne.blue@mtko.org | www.mtko.org.
Theatre Arts for Kids (TAFK.ORG) is a challenging musical theatre program specially designed for the young and aspiring performer interested in learning about, participating in, and producing musical theatre. Through teamwork and workshops, performers gain lifelong skills as they build self-esteem and develop leadership ability in addition to building their skill base as singers, dancers, and actors. TAFK offers a FREE Musical TheatreTroupe, voice lessons, classes for performers ages 3-6 & 7-18, and fully staged Broadway musicals are our specialty!
Visit our website for more information about Theatre Arts for Kids at TAFK.ORG or call (402) 202-1087.
FES (http://public.fes.org/) is a foundation that supports other nonprofit organizations so they can fulfill their missions. We provide services such as: branding, promotion, IT security, website design and hosting, and network operations. Many nonprofit organizations do not have the staff or budget or expertise to effectively manage these services for themselves. FES exists to fill that void and provide these services at a reasonable cost so nonprofits can stay focused on their noble missions.
FES employs over 60 people in Lincoln, Nebraska who work with lar
ge and small nonprofit organizations and communities. FES also works regularly with EducationQuest Foundation, SOCS websites, and the National Student Loan Program (NSLP) to provide services for marketing, IT security, and network operations.
FES is located at 1300 O Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. Inquiries can be made directly to Dan Kunzman at (402) 479-6663 or dank@fes.org.
The Merrymakers Association (www.merrymakers.org) began providing professional entertainment to area senior homes in 1986. We are celebrating 30 years serving our greatest generation throughout Nebraska and Iowa.
Merrymakers’ program is a unique service serving 136 care facilities. This includes assisted and long-term living facilities, senior apartments, hospice and senior centers. These programs are scheduled once a month among 20 of our contracted professional musicians to provide live, onsite entertainment to all of these residents, including those with Alzheimer’s and who are in memory care.
Merrymakers performances inspire fond memories, smiles, clapping, singing along and even dancing. The music is geared to the seniors’ favorites.
Merrymakers is 100% supported through donations, grant funding, our summer “Friend-raiser” – Songs & Suds, and our signature Toast event in November of each year.
For additional information, visit www.merrymakers.org or call (402) 697-0205. Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and acknowledged.
Since the early 1970’s, Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (www.lmep.com) has been a model of community collaboration, serving many areas of community need. These include the training of Family Medicine residents through the Lincoln Family Medicine Program, cutting-edge cancer research through the Nebraska Cancer Research Center (NCRC), training schools to identify and help children with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP), removing barriers for families by connecting them with resources and addressing substance use through Stepping Stones for Families, and educating individuals to become alcohol and drug counselors via Training for Addiction Professionals.
To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership visit www.lmep.com.
Ranking among the top 5% of all Catholic high schools in the country, Pius X High School (www.piusx.net) provides an affordable, Catholic education in a positive environment. As part of the Pius X family, students deepen their faith and knowledge, and have opportunities to pursue their talents and passions. With its largest enrollment ever at 1,275 students, Pius X has served the Lincoln community for 60 years and works to instill seven core values – excellence, service, purpose, faith, integrity and charity – into the next generation of leaders. Contact us at (402) 488-1046 or email michelle.birkel@piusx.net.
To learn more about Pius X High School and the Pius X Foundation, visit www.piusx.net or follow us at facebook.com/RestoreAllThings or @PiusXLincoln.
Existing to promote the dignity, independence and well-being of older adults, Tabitha (Tabitha.org) serves clients and their families across 28 southeast Nebraska counties at every stage of the aging journey through compassionate at-home support, innovative living communities, exceptional rehabilitation, and health care and hospice services.
Tabitha believes everyone should receive the same quality, compassionate care—no matter their financial situation. This commitment is illustrated no better than through Tabitha Meals on Wheels, begun in 1967 as the first program of its kind in Nebraska and today the only Meals on Wheels provider in Lincoln/Lancaster County.
Feeding more than 550 clients daily, 365 days per year, Tabitha Meals on Wheels prolongs Elder independence and provides an invaluable safety check for vulnerable individuals in the Lincoln community. More than 70 percent of the program’s recipients cannot afford the $5.75 per-meal cost, yet with the help of generous donors Tabitha continues to say “yes” to all those in need.
Tabitha is looking for civic-minded individuals to join us in serving our community.
For more information about how you can help Tabitha support our friends and neighbors in need please call Tabitha at (402) 486-8520 or visit Tabitha.org.
Established in 1986, Neighborhoods Inc. doing business as NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL; www.nwlincoln.org) is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to keeping Lincoln a safe and prosperous community by revitalizing neighborhoods and promoting home ownership. NeighborWorks Lincoln aspires to make Lincoln a vibrant city with an exceptional quality of life for all. The organization fulfills their mission through an active partnership of resident leaders, private businesses, the philanthropic community, and the public sector.
Our work includes three core areas of focus. Developing desirable housing through our Real Estate Development Program, which includes the development of properties through both rehabilitation and new construction; Strengthening communities by empowering residents through our Community Building Program which works to educate and empower neighborhood residents to take action and influence change in their communities; and, Facilitating sustainable homeownership through our Homeownership Program, which includes a Down Payment Assistance Program as well as homebuyer education classes.
For more information on NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL) visit www.nwlincoln.org or call (402) 477-7181.
The Pregnancy Center (www.support.pregnancycenterlincoln.org) is a non-profit, faith based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O Street. Every month over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers.
Call the Pregnancy Center at (402) 483-4247 or visit www.support.pregnancycenterlincoln.org for more information.
Better Business Bureau® (BBB®; bbbinc.org) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is a private, non-profit organization established in 1912. Its mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust.
BBB accomplishes this by:
- Setting standards for marketplace trust.
- Encouraging and supporting best practices by engaging with and educating consumers and businesses.
- Celebrating marketplace role models.
- Calling out and addressing substandard marketplace behavior.
- Creating a community of trustworthy businesses and charities.
BBB Accredited Businesses must meet BBB Standards for Trust. They have pledged to support the objectives and standards of fair advertising and ethical business practices.
Not all businesses qualify for BBB accreditation, so make sure to look for BBB’s seal that identifies the business as one that “Starts With Trust®.”
BBB’s headquarters is located in Omaha at 11811 P St and it has a branch office in Lincoln located at 300 N. 44th St #100.
For more information, please visit bbbinc.org.
Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing FREE, professional housecleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients.
Brenda Schwery, local business owner of Maid To Please, has provided free home cleanings for years through another foundation where, unfortunately, women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the much needed help is extended to everyone going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer.
For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit www.aidingangels.com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.
The Alzheimer’s Association® (www.alz.org) is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
For an estimated 33,000 Nebraskans, Alzheimer’s disease is the ultimate thief — of their identity and precious memories. Their caregivers and loved ones are left feeling alone and heartbroken.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides education and support to those who face dementia every day. On a national level, the Association advances critical research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure.
Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease, the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.
To learn more, find help or get involved — visit www.alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.
At CBMC (Lincoln.CBMC.com), we believe that when the Marketplace is operated according to biblical principles, everyone wins! Our mission is to equip Christian Businessmen to live out their faith through their business and connect them to others who also believe this is our calling and privilege.
Through our Marketplace Ambassador Initiative, we offer several programs to help individuals grow: First Steps, Operation Timothy, Living Proof, and Every Man a Warrior. These one-on-one or small group studies help participants develop skills and abilities as followers of Jesus.
The Leadership Institute, which is specifically geared toward business leaders and owners, consists of a variety of Peer Advisory Groups (PAGs) including Forums, Executive Roundtables, Acceleration Teams, and Boards of Advisors. Led by trained facilitators, these monthly groups utilize Biblical and Academic Study for growth, fellowship, and accountability.
To learn more about CBMC or join us, please contact enix@cbmc.com or visit our website at Lincoln.CBMC.com.
Christian Record Services, Inc. (www.ChristianRecord.org) is a ministry of compassion to people who are blind. Since 1899, Christian Record has worked to improve the quality of life for children, teens, and adults who are blind by providing free programs and services. All who are blind, legally blind (20/200 with corrective lenses), or have physical impairments that prevent them from holding a book qualify for these free services:
- Subscription Magazines: Braille, large print, and audio formats
- Full-Vision Books: Children’s books that combine braille, audio, and large print
- Lending Library: More than 1,600 braille and specialized audio volumes
- Gift Bibles and Study Guides: Braille, large print, and audio
- National Camps for Blind Children: Summer and winter camps
- inSight4Vets: Audiobook “thank you” gift to blind military veterans
- Wildlife STORYTELLERS: Audiobook players in soft plush animals
To learn more, visit Christian Record Services, Inc. at www.ChristianRecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or connect on Facebook or Twitter.
Due to a significant need for treatment services for adolescents in our community, St. Monica’s (www.stmonicas.com) recently opened Channels.
“Channels” is a gender-specific program with a strength-based approach provided in a supportive and nurturing environment. Based on the resiliency of each young woman, the program provides each girl with the tools and therapy to help her understand and manage her substance use and mental health disorder(s). The Channels program offers girls the opportunity to build a healthy life moving forward.
The key components of the residential program include a 4-6 month stay, family involvement, school participation, and approximately 20 hours of programming specific to young girls.
Questions, referrals and admissions please call (402) 437-8448.
Wellbeing Initiative (wellbeinginitiatives.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to impacting the lives of those living with mental health challenges by providing a community that empowers members to reach their fullest potential.
The first program, “The Orchard,” is located at 300 S. 13th Street in Lincoln. It provides a space in which that community can be nurtured. Individuals can come have a cup of coffee, talk to a trained peer who can assist them with difficult situations, or engage with them in social activities.
Through The Orchard, individuals with mental health challenges are also provided with opportunities to participate in comprehensive trainings and support groups. These trainings cover topics such as self-care, advocacy, job readiness and leadership skills.
Invite a few of The Orchard volunteers and members whose lives have been impacted by this program to do an informational presentation for your organization or arrange a tour of The Orchard!
Contact Skylar Linn at (402) 499-1322 or slinn@winitiative.org to schedule a presentation or tour. Or, for further information, visit Wellbeing Initiative at wellbeinginitiatives.org.
Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters (www.hbbbs.org) makes meaningful mentoring matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”).
The new year is a great time to set new goals. The agency has a goal of pairing 70 new Big Brother and Big Sister mentors with local youth. Matches meet weekly on evenings and weekends out in the community, doing recreational and educational activities they both enjoy. They build important friendships that lead youth to higher aspirations, greater confidence, better relationships, avoidance of risky behaviors, and educational success. If your resolution is to give back to the community and have fun as a volunteer for HBBBS, please visit www.hbbbs.org/volunteer to get started!
To learn more about Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.hbbbs.org or like the agency on Facebook at www.facebook.com/heartlandbbbs or follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/heartlandbbbs.
LUX Center for the Arts (www.LUXcenter.org) is Lincoln’s community arts center. The LUX provides high quality art classes for children, youth, and adults. On the First Friday of each month, the LUX hosts newly curated art shows featuring local, regional, and national artists. Our Art Van deLUX provides art-making workshops and classes to at-risk-youth, cancer survivors, low-income schools, and Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Each year, the LUX Center for the Arts brings in four emerging artists to teach classes and to create art in Lincoln through our Artists-In-Residence program. The LUX is committed to being the arts organization where everyone feels comfortable and welcome.
Contact us at (402) 466-8692 or visit our website at www.LUXcenter.org.
The Center for People in Need (cfpin.org) facilities include expansive classroom space, a distribution warehouse, as well as conference space, computer labs, and job training facilities.
Those seeking to improve their financial circumstances, overcome adversity and achieve success, will find meaningful resources at CFPIN. Our core areas of impact include:
Hunger Prevention: CFPIN distributes food to low-income individuals throughout the week, both on-site as well as at locations strategically placed throughout the community.
Social Support: Every year, CFPIN will host free assistance events meant to alleviate poverty and promote social inclusion through addressing specific problem areas. Additionally, we offer referral services as well as emergency assistance.
Adult Education: CFPIN offers tuition free college associates degrees through SCC, as well as ESL courses on-site.
Second Chances for Ex-Offenders: CFPIN offers programming tailored towards current or recent offenders from Nebraska correctional facilities to re-enter society with support, job training skills, as well as life skills.
Learn more at: cfpin.org | 3901 N 27 St. Lincoln, NE 68521 | (402) 476-4357
Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. (www.lincolngoodwill.org) has been strengthening the Lincoln community for more than 80 years by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling gently used household items and clothing. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services.
Goodwill recognizes that services provided by peer agencies prepare people served by Goodwill to better succeed in Goodwill’s employment programs. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of willing workers employed and community resources maximized.
For more information about Goodwill and its role in the Lincoln community, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org today.
May 2017 marks the 14th year of Clinic with a Heart (www.clinicwithaheart.org)! Our volunteer-driven, faith-inspired free healthcare clinic has been serving our community with grace, hope and dignity. We could not do it without our volunteers, donors and supporters who consistently give their time, expertise, energy and resources. Thank you! Services provided include medical, dental, physical therapy, chiropractic, mental health, hearing screenings, vision exams and spiritual care. Funding for Clinic with a Heart comes from mission team sponsors, corporate sponsors, individual donors, grants and fundraising events. Today more than 600 people volunteer to serve at the clinic!
For more information about Clinic with a Heart (www.clinicwithaheart.org), our services, to volunteer or donate, please contact Teresa Harms at (402) 421-2924 or teresa@clinicwithaheart.org. THANK YOU for supporting Clinic with a Heart!
The Nebraska Sports Council (NebraskaSportsCouncil.com) is a non-profit organization that provides quality competition for athletes of all ages and abilities and promotes healthy and active lifestyle choices. Major programs include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge, which encourages all Nebraskans to get out and be active by participating in any physical activity, and the Cornhusker State Games, a 60+-sport Olympic-style athletic festival which attracts an average of 12,000 athletes to Lincoln/Omaha each July. Other events like the annual Pumpkin Run and Mud Run round out a full-year of fun and healthy activity offerings. 2017 program dates include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge, Jan. 1 – Dec. 31; Cornhusker State Games, July 21-30; Mud Run, Aug. 26 and Pumpkin Run, Oct. 7.
Nebraska Sports Council programs and events require more than 3,500 volunteers and financial backing from more than 300 businesses annually.
Those interested in supporting or participating in the Nebraska Sports Council can learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com or visit us in person at 4903 N. 57th St. in Lincoln or by phone at (402) 471-2544.
The Heartland Cancer Foundation (www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org) was established to assist low income cancer patients with prescription cancer medications and gas money needed to go to and from cancer-related appointments and treatments. Our goal is to reduce the financial stress that often accompanies cancer treatment so patients can focus on their recovery, bringing energy and optimism to their journey. The Heartland Cancer Foundation is based in Lincoln, Nebraska and supports cancer patients who live in Southeast Nebraska and Northeastern Kansas. We are not affiliated with any clinics, hospitals, cancer treatment centers or organizations.
All are welcome to call (402) 261-9974 or visit The Heartland Cancer Foundation at www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org to find out more, and those who need assistance may also apply online or to download an application.
There are a variety of ways you can get involved – check out the website at www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org for links to upcoming events, to donate, or to find out more about fundraising opportunities available.
VolunteerLinc (volunteerlinc.org) bridges the gap between community and cause to connect people, businesses and nonprofit organizations with the service opportunities that best fit their skills, passions and pursuits. VolunteerLinc is creating meaningful interactions in the Lincoln and Lancaster County to strengthen the community through local volunteerism.
Whether you’re a volunteer wanting to engage in the community or you’re a non-profit who could use some help, VolunteerLinc is your go-to resource to make that connection.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities and sign up to receive weekly emails with the latest opportunities at volunteerlinc.org or call (402) 435-2100.
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC; www.abcnebraska.org) is a national construction industry trade association representing nearly 21,000 chapter members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 70 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, profitably and for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. The Cornhusker Chapter has offices in both Lincoln and Omaha, where we do apprenticeship training for the trades. Partnerships with VR, Avenue Scholars and ReConnect have trained individuals in the trades. Contact Deb at (402) 477-4451 to inquire about training opportunities for your company, organization or students. Each person that enters the industry is on the path to earning a competitive salary, learning a new skill and building America with their own hands.
To become a member of ABC, contact Anne at annek@abcnebraska.org or (402) 477-4451. Visit our website at www.abcnebraska.org.