New year means new opportunities to give back and get involved! At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Not only do 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.
This 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.
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. Their camp weeks for Summer 2022 are June 6–10; June 13-17; June 20-24; June 27–July 1; and July 11–15. Camp topics are infused with STEAM learning and include science, technology, engineering, math, art, literature, and music…and a lot of fun!
The Summer 2022 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, March 5, 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.
CenterPointe (www.centerpointe.org) serves the community by offering 40 programs including mental health and substance use treatment, primary care services, rehabilitation, medication management, 24-hour crisis response, and housing. There is no wrong door to walk through to start the journey of recovery. Most of those served experience severe and persistent mental illness, addiction, and health issues. Nearly all are low or no income. CenterPointe was the first organization in Nebraska to employ a “housing first” model in which people with mental illness and addiction issues are housed first, then engaged for treatment services. Today, CenterPointe operates more than 200 units of supported housing. We welcome all sexual orientations and gender identities. Guided by our holistic approach of open arms and open minds and by our steadfast belief that every person has the ability to recover, we are helping people get better, sooner, for longer. Learn more online at www.centerpointe.org or by calling (402) 475-8717.
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. In a typical year, 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 seven 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 GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.
Contact Susanne Blue, MSW, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, at (402) 477-4116 / susanne.blue@mtko.org, or learn more online at www.mtko.org.
As a nonprofit transitional housing program for homeless women, Fresh Start (FreshStartHome.org) 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. In 2020, Fresh Start served 64 women, 18,990 meals, and 6,330 nights of lodging. Its 24-bed home shelters women for up to one year. Fresh Start connects women with health services, employment resources, and information and referrals geared toward their self-sufficiency.
Fresh Start has been in operation since 1991. It houses women without children in their direct care—a population its founders recognized as underserved in Lincoln. It’s a valuable landing place for women facing an array of challenges including escaping abuse, freeing themselves from addiction, or starting over again after incarceration.
Donation Needs: Laundry soap, all-purpose spray, and grocery cards
Volunteer Needs: Daisy Thrift Shop Clerks
Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media (Facebook.com/FreshStartHomeLincoln; Twitter.com/FreshStartLNK). To donate or volunteer, Contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@FreshStartHome.org.
For 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 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) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood.
“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.
In 2021, Community Action provided over 100,000 poverty-fighting services to over 17,000 individuals in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. 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 families like Manny, Van, and their four active boys who had been living in a crowded apartment that was not adequate for their growing family.
Habitat strives to help families like Manny and Van’s achieve homeownership through an affordable mortgage. Homeownership strengthens neighborhoods and improves the entire community. Children of homeowners have better success rates in school, and families are able to build generational wealth putting them on a path out of poverty.
Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 181 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. Get involved at lincolnhabitat.org.
Filament Essential Services – Empowering Nonprofits and Community Organizations for Over 30 Years!
Filament Essential Services (filamentservices.org) is a nonprofit committed to supporting those who serve others. It’s who we are. It’s the backbone of our mission and it’s at the center of the work we do every day.
Our focus is providing essential services that strengthens the nonprofit community and enables them to stay focused on fulfilling their task at hand. Whether you’re in need of an engaging web presence, a customized brand strategy, a personalized data security plan, tech support, or payroll and bookkeeping management, we are here to help.
Our services include:
• SOCS Websites and Mobile Apps
• Branding / Video
• Data Security
• Tech Support
• Payroll / Bookkeeping
• Rapid Entry COVID/Health Screening App
We can help you stay focused on the heart of your mission by alleviating time-consuming obstacles and talent gaps. Learn more at filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600.
At Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC, rmhcomaha.org) in Omaha, we know that oftentimes, it’s the little things that provide the most comfort. A hot cup of coffee in the morning. The smell of clean laundry. The feeling of a fresh haircut. A sweet taste of hand-crafted ice cream. Just like you, our families appreciate those little things in our House, as well as crawling into a warm bed after a long day in a hospital room. The taste of a home-cooked meal, even while far from home. A calming voice saying, “It’ll be okay.” When families travel to Omaha for their child’s medical care, they need those little things to get through it. They find them at Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha: Where the little things make the biggest difference.
As a support arm of Omaha-area hospitals, RMHC provides 40 family guest rooms and more than 14,600 lodging nights annually inclusive of warm beds, hot showers, meals, laundry facilities, family-friendly kitchens, playrooms, and a playground—all the basic essentials of home. Additionally, RMHC provides wraparound services delivered by community partners such as a hair salon, financial support, educational programming, mindfulness and yoga, birthday celebrations, a House therapy dog, as well as healing through the arts. These activities are designed to promote hope and healing through ongoing engagement and participation. The cost to provide our services is approximately $120 per night, per family. Families are asked to donate $20 per night, but no family is ever turned away due to an inability to contribute. To learn more, visit rmhcomaha.org.
The Team Jack Foundation (teamjackfoundation.org) exists to raise much-needed funds for impactful childhood brain cancer research to make a difference in treatment outcomes for children. Since 2013, the Foundation has raised over $9.1 million for local and national research. Our mission remains to find gentler, targeted treatments that attack brain cancer without lifelong debilitating side effects and ultimately to fund a cure. Nebraska has the fifth highest incidence of childhood brain tumors in the country and, even more alarming, ranks number one in mortality for this disease. With the support of all our incredible donors from across the country, since our inception, the Team Jack Foundation has committed $8.675 million to childhood brain cancer research. This includes a $6.5 million commitment to the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Children’s Hospital & Medical Center to develop a child brain tumor program.
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 movement, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit www.heart.org/Lincoln.
Vision Maker Media (VMM, visionmakermedia.org) is the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans since 1976. Our mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. We envision a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. We work with VMM funded producers to develop, produce, and distribute programs for all public media. VMM supports training to increase the number of American Indians and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs. A key strategy for this work is in partnerships with Tribal nations, Indian organizations, and Native communities. Reaching the national public and a global market is the ultimate goal for the dissemination of Native public media that shares Native perspectives with the world.
Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) funded in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), For more information visit visionmakermedia.org.
Christian Record Services, Inc. (www.christianrecord.org), located in Lincoln, is a ministry of compassion of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to children and adults who are blind, with nearly 18,000 members throughout the United States and in countries around the world. Our mission is to empower people who are blind to engage their communities and embrace the Blessed Hope.
Christian Record Services offers an array of services and programs, including Bible study lessons, books, magazines, and Bibles in audio, braille, and large print from a library of more than 2,000 titles. Members also have the opportunity to deepen social, educational, and spiritual connections through PhoneFaith, scholarships for higher education, and National Camps for Blind Children.
These services and programs are free of charge to people who are legally blind, regardless of spiritual beliefs or faith background.
For more information, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or email info@christianrecord.org.
Businesses and individuals are continuing to navigate a “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 to engage with other YP’s as well as 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.
When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it impacts everyone—mothers, daughters, fathers, sons, grandparents, spouses, neighbors, and friends. It is a terrible, heartbreaking disease that interrupts our lives and those we love and care about. The American Cancer Society (cancer.org) is a global grassroots force of nearly 2 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed so much about how we fight for a future free from cancer. It prompted us to innovate and find new ways to not only serve patients, but also safely connect with our communities. Thanks to the continued support from our community here in Lincoln and the dedication of communities around the world, the American Cancer Society is able to help so many – those who are battling cancer today, those who may face a diagnosis in the future, and those who may avoid a diagnosis altogether thanks to education, prevention, early detection, and patient programs.
Volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization and critical to our success at every level. We offer a variety of ways to invest your time and talents. Through local events like Relay for Life, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and Real Men Wear Pink, we would like to encourage you to stand with us in our fight for a future free from cancer. If you’re interested in volunteering with us or learning more about our volunteer opportunities, visit cancer.org/volunteer, call (800) 227-2345.
TeamMates Mentoring (LincolnTeamMates.org) matches an adult volunteer to meet with a student in grades 3-12 weekly to help them realize their strengths, develop hope for their future, and simply listen. Matches have fun together playing games, crafting, shooting hoops, or just chatting. Matches are made thoughtfully, based on common interests and the mentor’s choice of school and/or grade level. Visits last one class period and only take place at the school. TeamMates was started in 1991 by Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. Over the last 30 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults could help students—especially those with multiple life challenges—stay engaged in school, graduate high school, and pursue a post-secondary education. By providing unconditional support and encouragement, mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures, and realize their full potential. To volunteer or learn more about the organization, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990 or visiting LincolnTeamMates.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 currently manages more than $190 million in assets and has distributed more than $189 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.
Friends of the International Quilt Museum supports the International Quilt Museum (IQM, www.internationalquiltmuseum.org) and its mission. Home to the world’s largest publicly held quilt collection, the IQM’s diverse exhibition features quilts ranging from historical treasures to modern art, providing a glimpse into the art of quilting through the ages and around the world.
The International Quilt Museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with tickets available for purchase upon arrival. The museum is a proud partner of Museums for All, which offers free or reduced admission for those receiving food assistance, and Blue Star Museums, which offers active military service members and their families free admission from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Visit the museum store and find everything from local hand-crafted items to fabric, jewelry to quilting books, postcards and magnets to glass art designed to look like quilts. More information can be found at www.internationalquiltmuseum.org.
Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM, www.nonprofitam.org) is a state association that represents more than 700 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. NAM strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. With NAM’s growing base of nonprofits, the organization is committed to enhancing public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector; providing access to high-quality assistance and information on effective nonprofit management and practices; advocating on issues that affect the capacity of all nonprofits to address their communities’ needs; and fostering communication and cooperation among nonprofits. NAM also is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. To learn more, visit www.nonprofitam.org.
Angels Among Us (www.myangelsamongus.org) provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families 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.
In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us is launching many emotional support programs for the entire family in 2022. Programs for teens, kids, siblings, and caregivers; events for the family to attend together; and bereavement support services will all be offered. Research has shown that, along with the financial toxicity many families experience during a cancer journey, there are PTSD-like symptoms that also appear within the family. These emotional support programs will allow for Angels Among Us to better fulfil its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.
Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 550 families with over $3.1 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.
Wear Yellow Nebraska (WearYellowNebraska.org) provides services, 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 raised more than $350,000 to provide more than 15,600 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.
Loaves and Fishes aims to provide food and support to those experiencing food insecurity in the downtown area. Through partner LuLu’s (www.lulusonn.com), Loaves and Fishes provides three free meals per week, a weekly grocery pantry, and holiday meals. 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, or donate items such as fresh fruit or vegetables, snack items, or brown lunch bags. You can also purchase baked goods or catering services from LuLu’s. Every purchase feeds those who would otherwise go hungry. Good food doing good!
The Bridge Behavioral Health (thebridgenebraska.org) is a nationally accredited substance use treatment center. Their mission is 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.
The Branched Oak Observatory (branchedoakobservatory.com) 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.
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.
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 well-being 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.
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.
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 25 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.
People’s City Mission (www.pcmlincoln.org) was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses on average 350 men, women, and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. The Help Center offers free clothing, housewares, and food to Lincoln’s needy, to aid in preventing homelessness. The Free Clinic offers quality dental and other services to the uninsured. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. When you give a little, you can change a lot. Contact info@pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303. You can also visit www.pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more information.
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 a 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 us “Change a Child’s Story” by becoming a CASA volunteer or by donating today!
To volunteer, donate, or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161 or www.casa4lancaster.org. Follow on Facebook (@CASA4LancasterCo) and on Twitter (@CASALancasterCo).
Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS, www.csshope.org) of Southern Nebraska 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 connect, donate, or volunteer with CSS in bringing Hope in the Good Life, visit www.csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.
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) 480-5515.
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, education, and recommendations 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—Opportunities for members, families, and friends to participate in fun, inclusive activities in our community.
Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk—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.
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 over 270 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 45,915 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $423 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.
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 Women, Infant, and Children (WIC, familyservicelincoln.org/wic-womeninfants-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-womeninfants-children or call (402) 441-8655 for appointments and hours.
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.
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.
The Malone Community Center offers an Early Achievers Academy, which is leveling the playing field by providing a
high-quality early education for low-income families. They are committed to ensuring students are prepared to succeed. Now enrolling: full-day early childhood education program, open 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. This program is in collaboration with the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and Ruth Staples Child Development Laboratory. For more information, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.
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, our mission 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 2, 2022 at CHI Health Center Omaha
• JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – June 2022
• JDRF One Walk – October 2, 2022 at Mahoney State Park
Programs
• Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies
• Support/Networking Groups (virtual until further notice)
• Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community, 2nd Thursday of every month
• Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities
• Outreach – Resources and support 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 call (402) 397-2873.
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.
Throughout its 35 years of service to Nebraska’s capitol city, NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL, www.nwlincoln.org) has been a local leader in Lincoln’s community development sector and the preeminent facilitator of affordable homeownership opportunities. The organization has three primary lines of business—real estate development, community building, and homeownership—that work together to support neighborhood stabilization and advancement.
Annually, NWL prepares individuals from more than 200 households to achieve their dream of homeownership, assists 90 to 100 low- to moderate-income residents through its down payment assistance (DPA) program, and constructs (or significantly rehabilitates) 10 to 20 new homes. Simultaneously, the community building team partners with Lincoln residents and neighborhood organizations to enhance leadership skills and strengthen neighborhoods. The organization’s service area is citywide, but homeownership and DPA emphasize the City’s core neighborhoods. For more information, visit www.nwlincoln.org or call (402) 477-7181.
Since 1978, Friendship Home (friendshiphome.org) has helped victims of domestic violence find physical and emotional safety by offering possibilities to help change their lives when things are at their worst. Friendship Home’s current facilities have expanded shelter options including transitional housing and single-family shelters.
Friendship Home offers emergency shelter in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families, and transitional living for families who need more time to rebuild their lives—free from violence. Friendship Home continues to empower everyone who comes through their doors to achieve safety, independence, and freedom from domestic violence.
Friendship Home is Lancaster County’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.
One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln (YMCALincoln.org). The Y has served the community for 150 years—promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Today, the Y serves the community with facilities in all quadrants of Lincoln through programs including swim lessons, YMCA Youth Sports, YMCA Camp Kitaki, after school programs, disease management, and more.
While the names and program offerings have changed over the past 150 years, the cause remains the same—strengthening the community. As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits, the Y knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the Y works side-by-side with their neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. For more information on the YMCA of Lincoln, visit YMCALincoln.org.
“My family’s wellbeing is better off after finding HopeSpoke and shaking the negative stigma around mental health.” – Parent of a HopeSpoke client
HopeSpoke (www.hopespoke.org) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health care. Emotional issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome, especially for kids. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke can help.
HopeSpoke provides mental health services for individuals and families across the lifespan, including:
• Crisis and residential services
• Extended day treatment
• Outpatient counseling
• School-based therapy
Outpatient counseling is available in person or via telehealth to best fit each individual’s needs.
Caring for children’s mental health since 1949, HopeSpoke continues to provide expert, innovative services to grow a community of happy, hopeful, healthy families.
For more information about HopeSpoke’s services, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit www.hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.
The Belmont Community Center (BCC, belmontcommunitycenter.org) was founded in 1937 and has served a variety of purposes in its northwest neighborhood for close to 85 years. The community center is located just south of Belmont Elementary School and is known for its distinctive domed roof.
Currently the community center has three focus program areas: Full Day and Half Day Preschool Programming, School Age Programming (before and after school programs, programming on LPS no school days, and on summer break), and community use of the facility which includes a meeting room, gym, and ballfield. The BCC is a licensed childcare program, accepting the state subsidy, and serves over 80 youth on a daily basis.
The mission of the Belmont Community Center is, “To identify and define the social, cultural, recreational, and educational needs of the residents of the Northwest Lincoln community and to cooperate in meeting these needs by establishing programs and services, to the extent of their resources, while coordinating with and complementing the programs of other agencies.” The Belmont Community Center is a place for personal growth in the presence of community. A place that values giving residents a space to become+connect. For more information about these programs, visit belmontcommunitycenter.org or call (402) 477-8854.