Supporting Nonprofits in Lincoln, January 2021
Our hearts go out to the many nonprofits in our community that have felt the enormous burden brought on by COVID. We’re at the point now where it’s almost been a full year of restrictions and shut-downs that have forced organizations to either cancel, postpone, or reinvent their programs and fundraisers online. In addition to financial strain, these nonprofits have also suffered losses in their volunteer count. It’s hard to watch, but we’ve also seen reassuring efforts to counteract these setbacks. Community members and organization leaders have really stepped up, shown selflessness, and gotten creative.
A big shout out goes to the Lincoln Community Foundation for hosting the Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund. The coalition of partners that are driving this fund includes the City of Lincoln, the Lincoln Community Foundation, the United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County, the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, the Community Health Endowment, and other philanthropic and business partners. As of December 16, the fund has raised $1,232,858, including $500,000 from the strategic partners: Abel Foundation, Acklie Charitable Foundation, ALLO, Ameritas, Community Health Endowment, Greater Lincoln Chamber Foundation, Harbor of Dreams, LCF, Nelnet, Rhonda Seacrest, Susan Sehnert Stuart, Union Bank & Trust Company, Inc., and J.A. Woollam Foundation.
According to the Lincoln Community Foundation, the needs in our community continue to grow and the scope of this crisis will require aid from many different public and philanthropic sources. Now is the time to double down for our community. Lend your hand by making a donation to the Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund at www.lcf.org/covid19.
We need to continue doing our part to help the community by investing in our nonprofits in any way we can, and that doesn’t always mean monetary donations. There are many ways to give back and get involved, such as participating in or hosting a donation drive at your business, volunteering your skills and talents, and spreading awareness by sharing needs from nonprofits on your social media channels.
At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves. Nebraska’s nonprofit sector provides about 10% of private sector jobs in our state. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.
Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state an even better place to live, and so we also want to bring awareness to their efforts. Our Supporting Nonprofits feature is a place to recognize some of these amazing organizations and the work they’re doing locally. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they’re choosing to give back to Lincoln this year. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will have positive ripple effects in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.
Aiding Angels (www.aidingangels.com) is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit 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 cleaning services for years through another foundation where 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— men, women, and children regardless of financial status—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.
Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates or CASA for Lancaster County (www.casa4lancaster.org) is local nonprofit that recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers get to know the children and all of the circumstances and issues surrounding the family. They gather information and report their findings and recommendations directly to the judge. CASA volunteer advocates provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, share with the judge the needs and wishes of the children, and ensure that children have safe permanent homes. Help CASA serve more children by volunteering or donating today!
To volunteer, donate, or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161, visit www.casa4lancaster.org , or connect on Facebook (@CASA4LancasterCo) and Twitter (@CASALancasterCo).
Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln (www.advocacypartnership.org) has been a resource for parents, schools, agencies, and individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives. They believe that all people deserve opportunities and to be contributors and influencers in their communities. One of the programs offered currently is The Arc Expeditions program, which offers individuals the opportunity to travel across the country with friends and volunteers for socializing opportunities and making of some very special life long memories. Arc of Lincoln also provides a trained Inclusive Education Lay Advocate to families who need support at IEP/ISP meetings, in addition to HUD Housing units that are managed through two DD Service providers here in Lincoln. The Arc of Lincoln continues to offer several different educational and social programs for all ages through a United Way grant since 1995. Current needs include advocacy and monetary donations for the most vulnerable in our communities. Questions can be directed to Michelle Johnson, executive director, at (402) 421-8866 / director@arclincoln.org or go online to www.advocacypartnership.org.
The American Heart Association (www.heart.org/Lincoln) 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 (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5).
Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is to equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
Through events right here in Lincoln like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit www.heart.org/Lincoln.
The Bridge Behavioral Health (thebridgenebraska.org) is a nationally accredited substance use treatment center. Their mission to help men and women with limited financial resources heal the wound of substance use and become productive, contributing citizens. Since 1984, The Bridge Behavioral Health has served as an essential part of the community’s safety net, connecting people with addiction and related mental health issues with support and treatment.
The Bridge Behavioral Health offers a continuum of services including Civil Protective Custody, medically-monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment, and recovery support services.
For more information or to help The Bridge Behavioral Health provide a safe passage from addiction to sober living, contact Brianna Georgeson at bgeorgeson@thebridgenebraska.org.
Fresh Start (FreshStartHome.org) has given a “fresh start” to 1,700 women who were striving to live a better life. As a nonprofit transitional housing program for women, Fresh Start offers more than just a safe place to live. It’s a goals-based program that empowers women to change their lives by recognizing and overcoming barriers to self-sufficiency. With Fresh Start, women 19 years and older who are experiencing homelessness for any reason have the opportunity to live in a safe, supportive environment for up to a year, affording them more time to focus on their long-term goals, address barriers, and enact change. Donation needs include paper goods, cleaning supplies, and gas cards.
Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln) and Twitter (@FreshStartLNK). To donate or volunteer, Contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@FreshStartHome.org.
Junior Achievement of Lincoln (https://lincoln.ja.org/) is building a successful future for our community, one classroom at a time! This school year, more than 31,000 students in over 100 schools all across Lincoln and Greater Nebraska will be impacted by their messages of financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and business ethics delivered by a community role model. Together with Junior Achievement let’s inspire this generation to be better prepared for success than any generation in history. Let’s prepare them to take on their destiny with passion and confidence. Let’s equip them to run businesses, lead nations, make discoveries, and change our world. But most of all, let’s give them hope to see what’s possible.
For more information on how to invest in Junior Achievement of Lincoln or to learn more about becoming a classroom volunteer, contact Rachel Murray at rmurray@jalincoln.org or (402) 467-1741.
CenterPointe (www.centerpointe.org) offers a broad continuum of care with more than 35 programs in Omaha and Lincoln in the areas of crisis response, treatment, rehabilitation, housing, and peer support. By treating the whole person, mental health, physical health, and addiction can be addressed together in real time. Since its start in 1973 under the name Full Circle by Lincoln Lancaster Drug Projects, CenterPointe has been a leader in holistic healthcare. Housing was added in the 1990s. As more programs are added to address the individual more holistically, more and more men, women, teens, and veterans are able to take steps on their journey toward a healthier life. The majority of CenterPointe consumers experience both severe and persistent mental illness and addiction issues. Nearly every individual CenterPointe serves has very low or no income when they enter their programs. CenterPointe’s mission is to help those they serve get better, sooner, for longer. Learn more online at www.centerpointe.org or by calling (402) 475-8717.
For almost 90 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc (lincolngoodwill.org) has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused 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 keeping willing workers employed and community resources maximized. To learn more, visit lincolngoodwill.org.
The Pregnancy Center (www.pregnancycenterpartners.org) is a nonprofit, 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 love and support, and many 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 clients or taxpayers.
Call the Pregnancy Center at (402) 483-4247 or visit www.pregnancycenterpartners.org for more information.
Bright Lights (BrightLights.org) serves K-8th grade students by providing energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships—and 2021 will be their 35th summer of doing so! Their camp weeks for Summer 2021 are June 7–11; June 14–18; June 21–25; June 28–July 2; and July 12–16. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature, and music with most having a STEAM connection.
The Summer 2021 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, February 27, at 8 a.m. at BrightLights.org. Before Care and Lunch Care is available at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high school students. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.
Friendship Home (friendshiphome.org) has been helping victims of domestic violence since they started in 1978, launching their first permanent home in the summer of 1985. To meet the needs of domestic violence victims and their children, Friendship Home’s current facilities have expanded shelter options including transitional housing and single family shelters.
Friendship Home offers victims emergency shelter in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families, and transitional living for families who need more time to rebuild their lives. Friendship Home continues to empower everyone who comes through their doors to achieve safety, independence, and freedom from domestic violence.
Friendship Home is Lincoln’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency and transitional shelter, as well as supportive services, through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups, and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302. Learn more about Friendship Home online at friendshiphome.org.
Lincoln’s foundation, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF, www.lcf.org), works with donors who all share a fondness for this community and want it to be successful forever. The mission of LCF is to provide leadership and resources to help build a great city. Their role as an organization is to help donors accomplish their philanthropic goals, support nonprofit organizations that improve our quality of life, and foster community collaboration to address challenges and opportunities.
Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by matching community needs with the passions of their donors. They serve as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and help donors create lasting legacies of giving. The foundation has distributed more than $160 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. Find out more online at www.lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.
Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF, dsafnebraska.org) recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. For 25 years, DSAF has provided a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome and those who share in their lives, through networking, advocacy, and support, including:
- Parents First Call—Offers support and empathy to new parents upon receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome.
- Medical Outreach—Provides training and accurate information regarding Down syndrome to local medical offices.
- Age-Based ‘Stars’ Enrichment Groups—enable members to participate in fun, inclusive activities with family and friends.
- Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk—Creates a heartwarming all-ages experience for families, friends, and supporters of individuals with Down syndrome. The annual walk is DSAF’s biggest awareness and fundraising event!
DSAF is more than just an association, it is a place of belonging and hope. Get involved. Visit dsafnebraska.org or call (402) 421-1338 to learn more.
Vision Maker Media (visionmakermedia.org) is a nonprofit established in 1976 with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and Nebraska Educational Television (NET). Their mission is to empower and engage Native people to share stories. They envision a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. What began as a film archive to conserve and document Native American stories, transformed into the nation’s leader in content by and about Indigenous people for public broadcasting. Vision Maker Media works with Native producers to develop, produce, and distribute programs to educate audiences. They empower Native youth to grow up with stories that represent their backgrounds and with figures that embody their culture. The organization generates important public conversations about present-day Native issues and shed a long-overdue light on the foundation of American history through Native American stories. Their audience reach is more than 165,000 worldwide. To learn more, visit visionmakermedia.org or call (402) 472-3522.
Voices of Hope (www.voicesofhopelincoln.org) provides 24-hour-a-day services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, incest, stalking, and related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to victims of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for 45 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line ((402) 475-7273) and victim advocacy at hospitals. Voices of Hope also offers support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs, and providing advocacy for students at all college campuses. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Their free and confidential services are available to women and men.
Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers and wipes, and office supplies. To learn more, www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.
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 (www.mtko.org) is to defeat hunger and 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 more than 100,000 nutritious meals to the hungry in Lincoln and nearly 40,000 outreach and homeless prevention services to the working poor and homeless such as housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, RentWise classes, diversion, 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 six consecutive years, received the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award for the nonprofit sector in 2013, and was recently recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal on their GuideStarNonprofit Profile.
Contact Susanne Blue, CMSW, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, at (402) 477-4116 / susanne.blue@mtko.org, or learn more online at www.mtko.org.
Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP, www.lmep.com) is a leader in healthcare education, patient care, and behavioral health services through a variety of programs designed to meet community needs. These include the training of Family Medicine resident physicians and the delivery of exemplary patient care through the Lincoln Family Residency Program and the Lincoln Family Medicine Center, exposure to integrative medicine through Lincoln Medical Acupuncture, outpatient mental health and substance use counseling services for adults and children through Stepping Stones, the provision of training and technical assistance to help schools identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) and the delivery of expert medical care to pediatric patients in Lincoln’s hospitals through Lincoln Pediatric Hospitalists. To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, go online to www.lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581.
Incorporated in 2002, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM, www.nonprofitam.org) started with the goal of helping nonprofits help their communities. CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen more than 650 nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” Hindery said.
NAM’s signature Guidelines and Principles Program (nonprofitam.org/GuidelinesandPrinciples) provides legal compliance and best practices information in 12 major areas of nonprofit management: communication, evaluation, financial management, fundraising, governance, human resources, information technology, planning, public policy and advocacy, strategic alliances, transparency and accountability, and volunteer management. The National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits, recognizes NAM as the state association for Nebraska. Learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.org or call (402) 557-5800.
The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council (nesafetycouncil.org) is simple: For more than 60 years, they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line.
Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and wellbeing program is customized for their needs and size.
Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance, and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies.
The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more.
The People’s City Mission (pcmlincoln.org) is Lincoln’s only homeless shelter. Started in 1907, the Mission has helped over a million people over the last 100 plus years. The Mission is much more than an emergency shelter. It feeds men, women, and children three times a day; helps individuals and families find permanent housing; and works with guests to reintegrate back into the workforce. The Help Center gives away free donated housewares, food, and clothing. Daily, we deliver over 100 sack lunches to homeless on the streets. The Mission is growing in its needs, helping over 30,000 individuals every year. It relies on the public for nearly all of the funds that come in. Like Pastor Tom always says, “If we all give a little, we can change a lot!” For more information, please visit People’s City Mission online at pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303.
Angels Among Us (www.myangelsamongus.org) provides financial assistance to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families are provided with $500 a month for the length of their entire treatment plan, up to three years, to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life as they know it comes to an abrupt halt. Unfortunately, their monthly expenses do not. Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 500 families with over $2.7 million in support.
There are angels among us. Will you be one? Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. There is strength in numbers. There is also hope, help, and monetary relief. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF (jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa) works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, the mission of JDRF is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering, or fundraising.
Events:
- JDRF Gala – April 17, 2021
- JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – Spring 2021
- JDRF One Walk, Lincoln & Kearney – October 3, 2021
Programs:
- Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies.
- Support/Networking Groups (virtual until further notice)
- JDRF T1D Talk – Connecting the T1D community – individuals and families, 2nd Tuesday of every month
- Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community, 2nd Thursday of every month
- Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities
- Outreach – Resources and events for individuals and families
- Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels
- YLC – Young professionals raising awareness and funds for T1D.
Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or (402) 397-2873.
Loaves and Fishes aims to provide food to the hungry in downtown Lincoln. Through partner Lulu’s on N (https://www.lulusonn.com/), Loaves and Fishes provides three free meals per week, snacks and coffee Monday through Friday, and a weekly grocery pantry. They also offer gloves and hats in the winter and hygiene items year-round. You can support their mission in several ways: donate funds through the website at lulusonn.com; donate items such as ZipLoc sandwich bags, coffee creamer, fresh fruit, or snack items; or purchase food from LuLu’s or book them to cater your next event. Every meal that is purchased helps to provide meals for the hungry in our community. Good food doing good!
As Nebraska’s industry-leading and award-winning senior care expert, Tabitha (Tabitha.org) empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Nonprofit Tabitha cares for and about seniors across 26 counties offering: results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities, compassionate hospice care, and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). For all senior care needs, Tabitha is the Answer.
Tabitha welcomes civic-minded individuals to donate their time, talent, and treasure to help provide support to Seniors. Find out how you can make a difference in the lives of local veterans, teachers, public servants, and community leaders who need a helping hand. Connect with Tabitha at Tabitha.org or call (402) 486-8520.
Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF, NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving 270 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 45,313 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $393.1 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.
Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS) of Southern Nebraska (www.cssisus.org) is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually. Catholic Social Services provides food pantry services, emergency services—which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, and immigration services—St. Gianna Women’s Homes (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse), and a Clinical/Family Counseling program which provides psychological services. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has offices in Lincoln, Auburn, Hastings, and Imperial. To volunteer, donate, or connect with CSS in bringing Hope in the Good Life, visit www.cssisus.org or call (402) 474-1600.
The mission of the American Red Cross (redcross.org) is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters from home fires to major events such as hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. About 40% of the nation’s blood needed by patients is supplied by the Red Cross. The organization teaches skills such as CPR and First Aid that save lives. Additionally, the Red Cross provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members, veterans, and their families.
Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) RED-CROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood.
In this era of COVID-19 and navigating the “new normal”, connection and authentic relationships are more critical than ever. Plus, the need and opportunity to serve and support others is just as important. CBMC Lincoln (lincoln.cbmc.com) offers you the opportunity to connect with others and grow personally, professionally and spiritually. CBMC is a ministry to men in the marketplace, encouraging them toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others.
CBMC encourages you in connecting closely with Christ and with others who are growing and discovering how to represent Christ in life and work. CBMC offers one-on-one mentoring, challenging growth groups, leadership development, networking, and events throughout the year. They serve business owners and leaders through Peer Advisory Groups, geared to equip members to lead lives and businesses which honor Christ, and serve the community. Young Professional (YP) groups offer opportunities for men from all areas of the workplace engage with other YP’s as well learn from senior leaders and business owners.
To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 540-1093 or visit lincoln.cbmc.com.
“Kids need hope, now more than ever,” says TeamMates of Lincoln (LincolnTeamMates.org) Coordinator Jim Bennett. “TeamMates’ work centers around youth, and as our mission says, we aim to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring.”
TeamMates of Lincoln, the flagship chapter of the regional mentoring program co-founded by Tom and Nancy Osborne in 1991, annually supports approximately 1,500 mentors matched with students in grades 3–12.
Mentors meet one-to-one with mentees once a week at their student’s school, or twice monthly via Zoom. Matches often play games, shoot hoops, read or journal together, or complete community service or craft projects. The most important aspect of the meeting is building a meaningful relationship.
“Mentors are not parents or peers, but caring adult friends who don’t have to be perfect or know all the answers,“ says Mentor Support Specialist, Stacey Blizek. “TeamMates are cheerleaders, sounding boards, and developers.”
The need for TeamMates mentors is great, with 800+ students on Lincoln’s waiting list. If you would like to experience the power of mentoring, please call the TeamMates office at (402) 436-1990 or go online to LincolnTeamMates.org.
For over 20 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 pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The organization’s 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 such as a seizure or a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partners. Learn more online at www.domesti-pups.org.
The Malone Community Center (MaloneCenter.org) was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban league. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African Americans were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community.
For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors, and the Lincoln community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold their mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy, and leadership development.
For more information about the Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.
Wear Yellow Nebraska (WearYellowNebraska.org) provides service, support, and community for Nebraska’s cancer survivors. Their purpose, from the very beginning, is to bring together people passionate about cycling, celebrating life, and being an advocate in the fight against cancer. Since the organization’s beginning days, Wear Yellow Nebraska has continued to grow and cultivate their mission and vision. In 2012, they launched a free transportation program, which has directed more than $150,000 dollars in providing more than 9,300 cab rides to cancer patients in need.
The Wear Yellow Cab Ride program, Powered by Lyft, is the primary initiative of the organization and is funded by their signature event, the Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk. Transportation to and from treatment is essential because patients are often unable to drive themselves, which also leaves them vulnerable to additional medical challenges. Even when patients have family and friends who can help, they are not always available and sometimes they just don’t want to ask for one more thing.
Wear Yellow Nebraska touches lives in Lincoln, Omaha, and Fremont—help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org.
The Women, Infant, and Children (WIC, familyservicelincoln.org/wic-women-infants-children) program at Family Service Lincoln, provides more than just healthy foods. Family Service WIC is a nutrition program that provides healthy foods to eligible families at no cost. Individuals eligible for WIC include: pregnant women, women up to six months postpartum, breastfeeding women up to one year postpartum, infants, and children up to age five. Individuals must also live in the state of Nebraska and meet income guidelines. Participation in other programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) would automatically meet the income requirement. In addition to healthy foods, WIC provides nutrition counseling, breastfeeding education, and community referrals for additional support. Family Service WIC helps families thrive because we are all family and we are in this together!
For more information about Family Service WIC, visit the Family Service Lincoln website at familyservicelincoln.org/wic-women-infants-children or call (402) 441-8655 for appointments and hours.
Established in 1992, The Mediation Center (themediationcenter.org) fills a unique and important niche in our community. With staff possessing expertise in conflict resolution and consensus building strategies, along with the commitment of nearly 100 extensively trained mediators, over the years thousands of mediations have benefited thousands of individuals. The Center operates on a sliding fee scale and is dedicated to providing anyone in our community access to professional mediation services regardless of their ability to pay.
Mediation is a non-adversarial process for resolving disputes guided by a neutral third party mediator. The Mediation Center is proud of the quality and breadth of their programming and works relentlessly towards achieving a future for our community where mediation is the first option considered to resolve conflict and preserve relationships.
Call The Mediation Center at (402) 441-5740 or go to the website at themediationcenter.org for more information or to request services.
“We’re so much more than just coats and winter apparel. We’re a promise to Nebraskans in need—a promise for a truly warmer day. The brutal Nebraska winters take massive tolls on the thousands of people right here in our own state. The cold is unbiased to the mothers who cannot afford a coat or the homeless who go without.”
At A Warmer Day (www.awarmerday.org), they strive to solve this very issue but cannot do it alone. They need help from the commuity to make sure that no one is left out in such merciless weather conditions. A Warmer Day asks that you please become a soldier in their mission to combat the callous cold by making a monthly donation of $10. Your donation will help provide 15–20 coats to those in need in your first year. A Warmer Day members can rest easy in knowing that every dollar given makes a profound, local difference in their community.
As an organization ran only by volunteers, A Warmer Day depends on support from the community. For information about how to get involved or to find a coat drop-off location, visit www.awarmerday.org or contact (402) 480-7463 / info@awarmerday.org.
“Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t.” Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties (www.communityactionatwork.org) has been empowering people living in poverty to reach economic stability.
Community Action provides unique programs and services in four impact areas: Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family Well-Being, and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access. Just some programs include Head Start, which supports children from at-risk backgrounds and their families in building skills for success; Emergency Services, which provides rent, utility, and deposit assistance to those at-risk of experiencing homelessness; and the Gathering Place, which provides free hot, nutritious meals to anyone experiencing hunger in Lincoln.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Action is continuing provision of its poverty-fighting programming, following guidance from local health experts. In 2019, Community Action provided over 112,000 poverty-fighting services to over 20,000 children and adults. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit www.communityactionatwork.org.
Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln (lincolnhabitat.org) has helped families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership since 1988. Its priority is to work with future homebuyers who would otherwise not be able to achieve homeownership through a traditional mortgage loan. By increasing the number of homeowners throughout Lincoln, Habitat Lincoln is building neighborhoods and strengthening the community. Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 180 local families, serving more than 812 men, women, and children through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects.
Habitat Lincoln serves families whose income is up to 50% of median for the Lincoln area, with the average AMI being less than 40% over the past 10 years. It partners with first-time homebuyers. Many Habitat families are immigrants or refugees, and all are living in substandard housing—whether it be dilapidated, overcrowded, or cost-burdened. Get involved at lincolnhabitat.org.
The Branched Oak Observatory (@BranchedOakObservatory) is a unique astronomical park located conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Branched Oak Lake Recreation Area. Established in 2015, they offer a unique viewing experience and learning opportunity for young and old alike. The Observatory has a 30-student classroom, visitors center, and two buildings dedicated for viewing the night sky. Whether viewing the sun, the moon, or deep space star clusters and nebula, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers—amateur and professional astronomers alike—help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.” They hold monthly events called “Star Parties” that are FREE and fun for the whole family.
Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). If you would like more information, please email Matt Anderson at matthew@branchedoakobservatory.com or call (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The Lighthouse After-School Program (lincolnlighthouse.org) is celebrating 30 years of offering middle and high school-aged youth academic support, evening meals, and enrichment/recreational activities during non-school hours, Monday-Friday, 12 months a year. The goal is to “Increase the likelihood of high school graduation of middle and high school-aged youth by providing high quality after-school programming.”
Program eligibility requirements are: 1) Youth must be actively attending school or working on a G.E.D., 2) Youth cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and 3) Youth must demonstrate unconditional respect to the people and property of Lighthouse. All programs and services are offered to participants without cost.
Lighthouse had to reevaluate how to effectively help the students during COVID. The decision was made to allow students to attend Lighthouse during their school day, log on to a stable fast internet connection, enjoy breakfast and lunch, and receive in-person support and guidance. Learn more online at lincolnlighthouse.org or call (402) 475-3220.
HopeSpoke (www.hopespoke.org) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. The struggle is real. Mental health issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome, especially if you’re a kid. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke helps families find confidence. This is true even during the COVID-19 pandemic. HopeSpoke plays an invaluable role in providing children, youth, adults, and entire families with the skills to feel empowered and be successful—helping them heal, be courageous, and find strength to live well.
With a 71-year history and positive presence, HopeSpoke continues to reach out with expert care in new ways to make our community a better place full of happy, hopeful, healthy families. Services include Crisis & Residential, Extended Day Treatment Program, Outpatient Services, School Programs, and more.
For more information about HopeSpoke’s programs and the latest adaptations, or to make a donation, please go to www.hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.
The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF of Nebraska, cefnebraska.org) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 250 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages 5–12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Clubs (GNC) are after school clubs during the school year that primarily meet in local public schools. During the summer, their 5-Day Clubs go where the children are—neighborhoods, homes, and parks.
Anyone who is interested in supporting the CEF of Nebraska can join the Harvest Club. In light of the gospel of Luke (chapter 10, verse 2), the Harvest Club is an opportunity to give $10.02 each month to financially support this ministry. In addition, Harvest Club members are encouraged to set their alarm for 10:02 (a.m. or p.m.) to earnestly pray for laborers serving through CEF of Nebraska each day.
CEF of Nebraska (cefnebraska.org) brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children for an opportunity in which to make a life changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment. If you would like to know more, please contact Matt Anderson at matta@cefnebraska.org or call (402) 484-7877.
DreamCatchers Ride, Inc. (www.dreamcatchersride.org), is a mentoring organization for youth who wish to develop a bond with horses, but whose families don’t have the means to support one. Studies prove that a relationship with a horse helps youth to develop important physical and emotional skills that they will use throughout life. DreamCatchers provides the opportunity to build that relationship, and develop relationships with a positive adult or older teen role model.
DreamCatchers participants exhibit growth in their horsemanship ability, but also grow in confidence, develop stronger friendships, learn to speak up for themselves and others, show improvement in grades, and develop the ability to set and achieve goals. These skills lead to becoming more productive citizens, developing better focus overall, identifying safe and unsafe situations, and learning that every decision made has consequences, whether positive or negative.
DreamCatchers Ride, Inc. can be reached at www.dreamcatchersride.org or on Facebook at (@DreamCatchersRide).
RISE (www.seeusrise.org) is an innovative “inside-out” program serving incarcerated people through an intensive six-month reentry class inside seven Nebraska state prisons. Additionally, RISE provides reentry services to released program graduates.
In-prison programming focuses on character development, job readiness, reentry planning, and entrepreneurship. Reentry programming includes case management, employment aid, transportation, housing support, mental health, and substance abuse resources, and help obtaining basic needs for returning citizens.
RISE’s vision is that all people find freedom from cycles of incarceration. When people reenter society well and are supported by the community, public safety increases, people can begin to build wealth for their families, maintain healthy relationships, and break the cycles of incarceration.
You can make a direct impact on your community with RISE through volunteering at RISE in-prison events, reviewing program participant resumes online, becoming a RISE Reentry Mentor, volunteering with our policy and advocacy team, and through financial support. To learn more, visit www.seeusrise.org or call (402) 999-8063.
Lincoln Literacy (www.lincolnliteracy.org), an award-winning nonprofit, provides English language and literacy instruction to adults and families in Lancaster County. Thanks to hundreds of trained volunteer tutors, it’s able to offer dozens of free classes a week, as well as one-to-one tutoring.
Many in Lincoln’s refugee and immigrant communities, along with homegrown Americans, look to Lincoln Literacy for help. In normal times, it’s a long-term, in-person, mentoring kind of service. When the COVID-19 shutdown hit with just a few days’ notice, Lincoln Literacy had to reinvent itself. Although the staff is highly international, classes have always been English-only to be fair to all involved. The pandemic changed everything.
Lincoln Literacy responded by providing information in many languages, training volunteer tutors in online instruction, infusing classes with tips on how to land jobs in the shattered economy, and adding dual-language online classes to help beginning learners understand what’s going on. Now, Woods Charitable Fund has given Lincoln Literacy a three-year grant to help people attain living-wage jobs.
According to Lincoln Literacy’s Executive Director Clayton Naff, planning for the coming school year is like driving through a thick fog, but the agency is fortunate to have generous funding, great volunteers, and meaningful needs to address. To learn more, visit www.lincolnliteracy.org or call (402) 476-7323.