This month Strictly Business is happy to feature several of Lincoln’s nonprofit organizations. We believe in the importance of giving back and supporting our neighbors to work towards strengthening our community. Nonprofit organizations allow us an opportunity to get involved and make a change.
This May, the Lincoln Community Foundation hosted their annual Give to Lincoln Day. Give to Lincoln Day is a time for Lincoln to come together and support the organizations that improve our city. This year they raised over $11 million to support Lincoln’s nonprofit organizations.
Nonprofits need the support of Lincoln’s community. People rely on the programs provided by nonprofit organizations and those who support them. Think about donating to the organizations near you. Even unused items lying around your home such as old towels, children’s toys, and offi ce items can make a big impact. While not everyone can donate financially, there is always something to give. Nonprofit organizations succeed most when supporters pull together and use their different skills to make the program possible. If you can’t donate financially consider volunteering your time and skills for local organizations. Most nonprofits need help with simple tasks such as helping with event activities, office support, tutoring, and more.
There is such a wide variety of nonprofit organizations that everyone can find one that they’re passionate about and would like to give back to. We are thankful to include several nonprofits in our magazine, each with a unique mission and an inspiring story to tell. Whether you are passionate about supporting children, animals, women, seniors, minority communities, underserved individuals, or those in need of healthcare, food, and clothing, there is a nonprofit dedicated to that mission and would to welcome your support in whatever way you choose to give.
When you support a nonprofit, it impacts far beyond one individual or program. It plays a part in creating a stronger and healthier community. It also encourages others to get involved and be generous in their own way. Even small acts of giving can make a bigger difference than they seem. When many in the community commit to giving back in small ways, it creates a meaningful and lasting impact. Supporting a nonprofit doesn’t only benefi t the organization and people it serves, it also has a meaningful impact on you personally, in more ways than you’d expect.
At Strictly Business we believe that giving back matters in order to strengthen our community. We are proud to highlight these incredible nonprofi t organizations in our magazine. They are making a huge difference in our local community and helping Lincoln to thrive. By sharing their missions, we hope it encourages you to reach out to your local nonprofit organizations and offer a helping hand. The smallest act of kindness can have a huge impact on those around you. It is truly special when the community comes together to support one another.
Everyone has something to bring and we are stronger together. Read on to learn about the nonprofit organizations near you.
The Pregnancy Center (pregnancycenterlincoln.org) is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln, just off O Street. Every day women in our community visit the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need love and support, and many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center provides comprehensive information about every option available to women facing an unintended pregnancy. The center also provides confi dential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting and birth classes all at no cost to their clients or taxpayers. For more information, please visit pregnancycenterlincoln.org.
Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 266 communities.
In the last five years, 46,481 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $594 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Angels Among Us (myangelsamongus.org) provides fi nancial and emotional support to pediatric cancer families. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families qualify for newly increased levels of $700 or $1,400 a month, based on household income, for the duration of their critical treatment plan. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, ensuring funds are used for their intended purpose. AAU is the only organization providing long term sustained funding to pediatric cancer families in the region.
AAU also offers free emotional support at every stage in a pediatric cancer family’s journey. Programs include family wide connection events, caregiver support and bereavement groups, family kits and in-patient meal programs.
Since 2006, over 850 families have been supported with over $6.5 million in financial support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit myangelsamongus.org.
CBMC Lincoln (Christian Business Men’s Connection) (Lincoln.CBMC.com) is part of a global community of Christian men dedicated to growing in their faith while making an impact at work and in life. Whether just starting a career or leading a business, men can find support to grow personally, professionally and spiritually.
Faith and work do not always feel connected, but CBMC helps bring them together. Through one-on one mentoring, small group meetups, leadership training, and events throughout the year, members gain the tools, support and real connections to live out their faith in everyday life.
For business owners and leaders, CBMC offers Peer Advisory Groups designed to help run businesses in a Christ-honoring way while benefiting staff, customers and communities. For younger men in the workforce, Young Professionals (YP) groups are a great place to meet other like-minded men, hear from experienced leaders, and receive guidance on work, life and relationships.
Joining CBMC Lincoln means more than attending events. It is becoming part of a community of men who are honest, encouraging and committed to growing together.
To learn more, contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997, visit Lincoln.CBMC.com, or find them on Facebook or LinkedIn.
Apace (GoApace.com) is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fulfilling, lives rooted in dignity, respect and inclusion. Through personalized supports, innovative programming and meaningful connections, we help people build skills, pursue their passions and celebrate everyday achievements.
Located across Southeast Nebraska our day centers, employment services, shared living program and community-based supports, Apace focuses on creating opportunities, whether that’s finding a job, expressing creativity through art, navigating the community with confidence or forming lasting friendships. Our staff walks alongside each person, ensuring they feel safe, supported and valued in every step of their journey.
We believe in the strength of community and the power of shared experiences, Apace works to build a more inclusive world where everyone belongs. Together, we celebrate progress, possibility and the extraordinary in every day.
To learn more about our programs and get involved, please visit GoApace.com or call (402) 471-6400.
For 94 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.
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) (BreakthroughT1D.org/nebraska) is the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization. Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life better while driving toward cures with a mission to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone people need to get energy from food. T1D strikes both children and adults, and its onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. People with T1D depend on external insulin, via injection or infusion with an insulin pump, to survive. There are no cures. Breakthrough T1D is working to change that. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering, or fundraising.
Events:
- Walk – October 18, 2026; Lincoln, NE
- Community Summit – February 27, 2027; Omaha, NE
- Gala – April 24, 2027; Omaha, NE
Programs:
- Research – Two core objectives: Curing T1D & Improving Lives.
- Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & policies for affordable/accessible therapies.
- Early Detection – Educational program on screening for T1D autoantibodies.
- Community Outreach – Educational resources & support for people affected by T1D.
- Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.
BreakthroughT1D.org/nebraska – nebraska@BreakthroughT1D.org
Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP) (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 Medicine Residency Program and the Lincoln Family Medicine Center, exposure to integrative medicine through Lincoln Medical Acupuncture, outpatient mental health services (ages 5 and up) and substance use counseling services (ages 13 and up) through Stepping Stones, and the provision of training and technical assistance to help schools identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP). To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, visit lmep.com or call (402) 327-6851.
Willard Community Center (willardcommunitycenter.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping area residents grow, connect, and contribute to our community. Located in southwest Lincoln, Willard serves individuals of all ages through high-quality early childhood education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, before- and after-school programs, summer camps and teen activities for youth through age 13, as well as a vibrant Adult & Senior Program.
Our offerings include educational, recreational, wellness and social opportunities designed to strengthen connections across generations. Through affordable, accessible programming and meaningful community partnerships, Willard provides a welcoming place where children, families, adults and seniors can learn, build relationships and actively engage in the community.
For more information, please visit willardcommunitycenter.org.
Founded in 2001, MilkWorks (milkworks.org) is a nonprofit community breastfeeding center serving families throughout Nebraska through locations in Lincoln and Omaha. For 25 years, MilkWorks has provided expert, evidence-based lactation care, breast pumps, education, support groups, and resources to help families reach their feeding goals and feel confident in their parenting journey. As an in-network provider for Medicaid and many private insurance plans, MilkWorks makes high quality lactation support accessible to more families.
Today, MilkWorks serves approximately 25% of Nebraska’s birthing families each year and is a trusted resource for healthcare providers and parents alike. Through compassionate, inclusive, and nonjudgmental care, MilkWorks works to create a healthier community for babies, parents, and families. More information can be found at milkworks.org.
The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) (NebraskaSportsCouncil.com) is a premier organization dedicated to building a healthier Nebraska through sports and physical activity. Its signature initiatives include the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games—events that unite businesses in friendly competition while promoting teamwork and employee wellness. These games provide corporations with a platform to boost morale, encourage fitness and strengthen workplace culture.
The NSC is committed to enhancing Nebraska’s sports landscape and actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Businesses aligning with the NSC gain valuable exposure while contributing to the growth of a more active and connected community. Sponsorship options range from event-specific branding to long-term partnerships, offering flexibility for marketing and philanthropic goals.
By supporting the NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play an essential role in fostering engagement, well-being, and community pride across the state. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Nebraska. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (mtko.org) is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, the organization is a community kitchen and day center dedicated to helping the homeless and near-homeless fi nd possibilities when things seem impossible.
Each year, Matt Talbot provides more than 250,000 meals through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and food distributed through the Fresh Choice Pantry. In addition, the organization delivers more than 50,000 outreach and homeless prevention services, including housing assistance, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, education classes, homeless diversion and support obtaining vital identification documents.
Matt Talbot’s commitment to accountability and ethical practices is reflected in its record of recognition. The organization has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for eleven consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, and holds a Gold Seal GuideStar Nonprofit Profile for transparency.
For more information, visit mtko.org.
St. Monica’s Home (stmonicas.com) has been empowering women to achieve life-changing recovery since 1964. Through evidence-based treatment and support services, St. Monica’s provides a safe, supportive environment where women can heal from substance use disorders, address mental health challenges and build a foundation for lasting recovery.
As Nebraska’s longest-serving provider of gender-specific substance use treatment for women, St. Monica’s recognizes that recovery is about more than overcoming addiction. It is about restoring hope, rebuilding relationships, strengthening families and creating opportunities for a healthier future.
Today, St. Monica’s offers a comprehensive continuum of care that includes Short-Term Residential treatment, Therapeutic Community, Mommy and Me programs for women with dependent children, Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP), Outpatient Programming (OP), Peer Support, Community Support and transitional housing through the Affirming Women’s Empowerment (AWE) and HERR House programs.
By addressing the unique needs of women through trauma-informed, person-centered care, St. Monica’s continues to help women and families throughout Nebraska find hope, healing and life-changing recovery. More information is available at stmonicas.com.
People’s City Mission (pcmlincoln.org) has served Lincoln’s homeless and vulnerable neighbors since 1907, providing shelter, stability and compassionate care to thousands of men, women and children each year. Rooted in a mission to serve the poor with dignity and respect, PCM offers emergency and transitional shelter, three daily meals, free clothing and household goods and comprehensive medical, vision and dental care through its free clinic.
Last year alone, PCM provided more than 125,000 nights of shelter and distributed over 1.6 million food, clothing and household items to individuals and families in need throughout the community. Beyond meeting immediate physical needs, the Mission remains committed to helping guests rebuild their lives through encouragement, practical support and pathways toward greater stability and hope. For more information, please visit pcmlincoln.org.
The Cornhusker Council, Scouting America (scouting.org) prepares young people to make ethical and moral choices and develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and community engagement. We serve thousands of youth, providing programs that emphasize citizenship, outdoor skills and service. Our Scouts provide over 15,000 hours of community service per year across our 16 counties of southeast Nebraska.
Membership remains a key priority as we work to expand opportunities for youth and families. Recruitment initiatives, school partnerships and community outreach efforts have helped introduce Scouting to new audiences while retaining long-time participants.
Fundraising plays a critical role in supporting camps, scholarships and programming. Among the council’s most successful initiatives is the annual popcorn sale, which teaches Scouts valuable entrepreneurial and financial skills. The sale generates revenue for units and council operations but also provides youth with invaluable experience in goal setting, customer service and business management.
Through strong community support, the Cornhusker Council continues to invest in the next generation of leaders. For more information, visit scouting.org.
Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln (arclincoln.org) has been empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families to live, learn, work, and thrive as valued members of the community. Through advocacy, education, social and recreational programs, transition services, family support, and community partnerships, The Arc of Lincoln helps individuals build meaningful connections, develop skills, and achieve greater independence.
The Arc of Lincoln serves as a trusted resource for individuals, families, educators, service providers, and community leaders by promoting inclusion, protecting rights, and creating opportunities for participation in all aspects of community life. Programs such as social clubs, youth transition initiatives, family support networks, community events, and inclusive recreation help reduce isolation while fostering belonging and personal growth.
The Arc believes every person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute to their community. By working together with families, businesses, schools, and community partners, The Arc of Lincoln continues to build a more inclusive Lincoln for everyone.
Learn more at arclincoln.org.
Friendship Home (friendshiphome.org) is celebrating a flood of community support following the city’s 15th annual Give to Lincoln Day. Throughout the month of May, Lincoln individuals and businesses generously raised a record-breaking $11 million to benefit 497 participating local nonprofit organizations. Friendship Home raised a remarkable $195,820 of that total, which will directly support the organization’s mission to provide safe shelter and supportive services for survivors of domestic violence and their families.
The extraordinary success of this giving month ensures that Friendship Home can continue operating their 68 locations around Lincoln and growing the life-saving programs that meet the needs of survivors seeking a life free from abuse. It takes a strong foundation to continue to meet the growing needs of survivors in the area, and the Lincoln community proves again and again that they are up to the challenge.
Now in its 48th year of serving Lincoln and Lancaster County, Friendship Home is deeply grateful to the Lincoln Community Foundation and the generous sponsors and donors who acted this May to support survivors. More information is available at friendshiphome.org.
Founded and based in Lincoln, Nebraska since 1976, Vision Maker Media (visionmakermedia.org) is a Native media nonprofit that develops, produces and distributes media by and about Native American and Alaska Native communities, advancing Native representation through strategic partnerships, training and national distribution.
Through partnerships with Nebraska Public Media, University of Nebraska, local organizations and community radio, Vision Maker Media connects Omaha and Lincoln audiences with Native voices and experiences, yet also expands access to Native programming across Nebraska, and champions new work nationwide by Native creators.
The organization also invests in training and recruitment to strengthen Native representation in media production and broadcasting. For 50 years, Vision Maker Media continues to serve as a trusted community resource building understanding, increasing visibility and celebrating Native stories that enrich Omaha, Lincoln and communities across the nation.
Watch films at visionmakermedia.org.
The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) (cefnebraska.org) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 350 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages five to 12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Club is an after-school Bible club during the school year that primarily meets in local public elementary schools. During the summer, their Summer Good News Club (formerly the Five-Day Club) goes where the children are – neighborhoods, homes and parks.
CEF of Nebraska 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 / (402) 480-5515.
For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) (knb.org) has worked for the betterment of Nebraska through waste reduction, recycling and community beautification. KNB’s mission is to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affi liates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), KNB coordinates KAB events in the state of Nebraska and is a statewide resource for its 20 local community affiliates and all Nebraska residents.
The largest programs offered through KNB are the School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, CleanGreenZoNE, Materials Exchange, Used Oil Collection, Food Waste Education, Household Hazardous Waste and our newest Sustainability Seal Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/ awareness.
To learn more, call (402) 486-4562 or visit knb.org for more information.
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, The Mediation Center has helped thousands of Nebraskans resolve conflict outside of formal legal proceedings. The Center operates on a sliding fee scale and is dedicated to providing high quality, professional mediation services to qualifying individuals, regardless of 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 its 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.
Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) (lcf.org) facilitates positive change for the common good.
Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $293 million. LCF has distributed more than $288 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of residents.
Lincoln Community Foundation is accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®. For more information, please visit lcf.org.
The Museum of American Speed (museumofamericanspeed.org) is a nonprofit founded in 1992 by local business owners, “Speedy” Bill and Joyce Smith out of their personal involvement in racing and hot rodding, and their lifelong passion for collecting and preserving racing and automotive history.
Today, it is a premier destination that draws more than 50,000 annual visitors from across the globe. Covering 240,000 square feet, the Museum showcases a vast collection of iconic race cars, hot rods, motorcycles, bicycles, engines, music, artwork, memorabilia and so much more, offering visitors an immersive experience in the world of speed. There is something for everyone! The Museum is proud to have been voted as the #1 Attraction for Car Lovers by USA Today readers, and the #1 Motor Racing Museum by Newsweek readers. It also sits atop Tripadvisor’s list of Top Attractions in Lincoln.
To learn more about this Lincoln gem, visit museumofamericanspeed.org.
Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra (LSO) (lincolnsymphony.com) presents inspiring experiences that welcome all members of our community to discover and cultivate a profound, personal connection with live orchestral music. LSO presents a season of 11 concerts which are attended by 10,000 audience members annually. The season consists of seven classical concerts (including one chamber orchestra concert), two one-hour family concerts, a pop concert and an annual holiday concert.
LSO also provides education and community engagement activities that reach more than 13,500 students in more than 90 schools throughout Nebraska annually. This includes our Young People’s Concerts, library partnerships, school visits and an annual Young Artist Competition. In addition, Harmony in Healing, a music and wellness program, presents a series of chamber ensemble performances in healthcare facilities throughout Lincoln.
LSO also partners with LPS’s Family Literacy program and other human service organizations through our Social Impact Program to provide free concert opportunities for underserved populations.
For more information, please visit lincolnsymphony.com.
The Bosom Collective Inc. (boobfestlnk.com) is a nonprofit organization focused on helping women and men financially and emotionally navigate breast cancer from diagnosis to long after recovery.
The organization is founded by two Lincolnites, Cassie Smidt 22 year breast cancer survivor, and Meg Sloup, who is still going through breast cancer. They felt there was still a gap in the services being offered to these women.
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in the US every year, yet navigating the health care system can be very overwhelming and discouraging for those women. It’s more than chemo and radiation it’s a completely new identity that only another survivor can understand.
We help women fighting cancer bridge the gap, from dog care, laundry, cleaning, yard care, rides to appointments, help with children, and financial assistance to help ease the burden.
We are also here to give emotional support, as one breast cancer survivor can only understand what that looks like. This is the 1st year we are an actual non-profit; we are excited to make a real impact here in Lincoln and western Nebraska to make sure no woman is left behind.
Our annual fundraising event will be held at Suite 111 in Lincoln on October 23rd, 2026. Visit our website boobfestlnk.com.
One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Lincoln (YMCALincoln.org) 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, their cause remains the same—strengthening the community. As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits, they know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. And every day they work 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.
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. This mission guides every action the organization takes.
The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies approximately 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches life-saving skills; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families.
Through a strong network of volunteers, donors, and partners, the Red Cross is always ready to respond in times of need. Its supporters provide a beacon of hope, whether helping during disasters, ensuring access to lifesaving blood, delivering critical training, or supporting military communities.
To learn more about the American Red Cross and how to get involved, visit redcross.org.
Aging Ally (AgingAlly.org) is a Nebraska nonprofit dedicated to helping adults and families navigate healthcare decisions with confidence, compassion and clarity. Founded by nurse and healthcare leader Brenda Soto, MHL, BSN, RN, Aging Ally provides RN-led advocacy and support for individuals facing complex medical, insurance and care-planning challenges.
Healthcare can be overwhelming, especially during major life changes, hospitalizations, chronic illness or caregiving situations. Aging Ally helps families understand their options, connect with community resources and make informed decisions that align with their goals and values.
Guided by a mission of ensuring that no one walks alone on their healthcare journey, Aging Ally serves as a trusted partner for those who need support navigating an often-complicated healthcare system.
Through education, advocacy and personalized guidance, Aging Ally is helping Nebraska families find clarity during difficult healthcare decisions while promoting dignity, independence and peace of mind.
Learn more at AgingAlly.org or call (531) 893-1456.
TeamMates of Lincoln (lincolnteammates.org) matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades 3-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experiences. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once a week and take place at school.
TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 35 years, program outcomes have confi rmed their belief that caring adults help students – especially those with multiple life challenges – stay engaged in school, graduate high school and make post secondary plans. Mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures and realize their full potential. To discuss the benefi ts of mentoring for associates in your business or to offer donations of food for trainings, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990. You can learn more at lincolnteammates.org.
The American Heart Association (Heart.org/Nebraska) is devoted to healthier lives for everyone and saving people from the nation’s top two causes of death: Heart Disease and Strokes. Their goal is to equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
They are powered and run by only the best of the best. Thanks to millions of volunteers and countless help from local and global collaborators they are able to help fight against Heart Disease and keep people informed and educated on how to live healthy lives.
Through events right here in Nebraska, like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit Heart.org/Nebraska.
The David Staenberg Family Foundation (DSFF) (DavidStaenbergFamilyFoundation.org) is a mission-driven nonprofit focused on supporting dyslexic youth and community veterans through practical opportunities that build confidence, stability and hope. The Foundation’s stated mission is to “support dyslexic youth and our community veterans by creating opportunities, inspiring hope and building a legacy of positive change.”
For dyslexic students, DSFF helps remove barriers to success by offering scholarships for post-secondary education, pairing financial support with encouragement so students can pursue their academic goals.
For veterans, DSFF provides targeted support that includes fi nancial literacy scholarships, specifi cally noting 60 scholarships to the Dave Ramsey program through The Vet Center in Lincoln.
Beyond these two pillars, DSFF also strengthens the broader community through service and partnerships, including collaboration with local organizations serving people in need.
Learn more or make a contribution at DavidStaenbergFamilyFoundation.org.
Eventide (eventide.org) (formerly Tabitha) is a faith-based, nonprofit senior care organization serving Nebraska. Guided by its belief that “Joy doesn’t have an age limit,” Eventide provides a full continuum of services, including 55+ active adult apartments, independent senior living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care and transitional care communities, as well as home health care and hospice.
Each year, Eventide relies on community support for Meals on Wheels and other programs. Community members can help ensure seniors receive the support and dignity they deserve by giving at eventide.org/foundation.
Headquartered in Moorhead, Minnesota, Eventide also serves communities of Fargo, West Fargo, Jamestown and Devils Lake, North Dakota, and Lincoln, Crete and Grand Island, Nebraska. Eventide Home Health Care and Eventide Hospice serve clients throughout eastern and central Nebraska. With over 2,000 employees, Eventide serves more than 2,000 residents and clients each day. For more information, visit eventide.org.
Voices of Hope (voicesofhopelincoln.org) provides 24-hour services to all genders who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to individuals of these crimes in Lincoln/ Lancaster County for 48 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line (402) 475-7273, victim advocacy courts/hospitals, support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs and campus advocacy. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic need items such as personal hygiene items, household items, and security cameras.
To learn more visit voicesofhopelincoln.org.
At Youth for Christ Lincoln Area (yfclincoln.org), we develop meaningful, Christ-centered relationships with young people at pivotal moments in their lives. We walk alongside teens in public schools through our Campus Life ministry, building trust and offering support where students are every day. We also come alongside pregnant and parent teens through Parent Life, helping them make wise choices, fi nish their education and grow in their faith.
In the Juvenile Justice Ministry, we meet teens involved in the justice system to share hope, provide chaplaincy services and build long term relationships that continue when they return to their communities.
Through our recent merger with City Impact, YFC Lincoln has expanded its reach to serve even more young people and families through mentorship, community programs and outreach opportunities.
YFC Lincoln partners with local churches, volunteers, schools and community organizations to invite youth into a lifelong relationship with Jesus through mentoring relationships, events and ongoing programs that refl ect God’s love and truth.
Our work reaches thousands of young people across Lincoln and surrounding areas, offering hope, support and opportunities for personal growth in a safe and caring environment.
For more information, visit yfclincoln.org.
Disrupting Traffick (DisruptingTraffick.org) is a Lincoln, Nebraska–based nonprofit dedicated to preventing sexual exploitation through community education, outreach and practical support. Its resource center, located at 1625 N Street, serves as a critical entry point for women and youth facing vulnerability.
Disrupting Traffi ck operates from a simple but powerful belief: traffickers exploit unmet needs, and when those needs are met, prevention begins. At the resource center, individuals receive tangible resources—such as food, clothing, hygiene items and transportation assistance—freely and without expectation. For many, this is the first experience of receiving help without strings attached.
The organization also provides short-term emergency housing through its safe house, Lincoln’s fi rst for survivors of traffi cking and sexual exploitation. Beyond crisis response, Disrupting Traffick offers long term advocacy and mentorship, fostering healthy relationships that empower survivors to rebuild lives marked by dignity, freedom and hope through dignity-centered care and early intervention.
Disrupting Traffick works to interrupt cycles of exploitation before they take hold. Please visit DisruptingTraffick.org for more
information.
The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) (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 opportunities for young and old alike. Whether viewing the sun, the moon or deep-space star clusters and nebulae, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers – amateur and professional astronomers alike – help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.”
Come view our newest Observatory, the Miller Astrophotography Research Center (MARC). Also coming this summer is our new Gift Shop/Admissions building! Check out our Facebook page for the latest announcements!
The Observatory has a radio telescope to view the electronic spectrum of the universe, a SATCOM array for communications with the International Space Station and other satellites, a Cosmic Ray Detector and an Earth Moon Earth EME array that will allow them to bounce radio signals off the surface of the moon and back to Earth!
Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). Keep checking back to see about our “NEW” operating hours! If you would like more information, visit theboo.org or contact Matt Anderson at matthew@branchedoakobservatory.com, (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofi t organization.
Nebraska Diaper Bank (nebraskadiaperbank.org) believes that all babies deserve clean diapers.
Since 2014, Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) has operated a growing diaper distribution program, partnering with social service agencies to serve families across the state.
Clean, dry diapers are essential to a baby’s health and well-being, yet many families struggle to keep up with this basic need. Diapers are not covered by SNAP, WIC or Medicaid, so for families already stretching every dollar, spending $80 or more per month on diapers can be the breaking point.
NDB helps fill this critical gap by distributing diapers through trusted partner agencies, easing financial stress for families and giving parents one less expense to worry about.
Currently, NDB serves over 5,000 babies each month, distributing more than 300,000 diapers across Nebraska. The need continues to grow and so does our commitment to keeping babies clean, healthy and dry. To learn more about our mission or to get involved, visit nebraskadiaperbank.org.
HopeSpoke (Hopespoke.org) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. Emotional challenges and trauma are diffi cult to navigate, especially for kids. When life feels overwhelming, HopeSpoke offers support, healing, and hope.
Serving individuals and families across the lifespan, HopeSpoke provides a range of services, including outpatient counseling, school based therapy, extended day treatment, and crisis and residential care. Outpatient services are available in person or via telehealth, offering flexibility to meet each individual’s needs.
With a legacy of care dating back to 1949, HopeSpoke remains dedicated to supporting children’s mental well-being. Our experienced team delivers expert, compassionate, and innovative treatment tailored to help families thrive.
At HopeSpoke, we believe every child and family deserves a bright, healthy future, and we’re here to help make that future possible.
For more information about HopeSpoke’s programs, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit Hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.
As a nonprofit transitional housing program, 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. The home houses 24 women at a time, and they may participate for up to one year. In 2025, Fresh Start served 62 women, 19,203 meals and 6,401 nights of lodging. Fresh Start is a crucial part of Lincoln’s safety net for women experiencing homelessness.
Fresh Start connects women with health services, employment resources and information and referrals geared toward their self sufficiency. The nonprofit 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. As one of the alums states “Fresh Start changed my life. I truly believe I’d be dead if I had not found this place.”
Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media (Facebook.com/FreshStartHomeLincoln). To donate or volunteer, Contact Monica at (402) 475-7777 / monicaz@FreshStartHome.org.
Innocence Freed (innocencefreed.com) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, healing and hope to survivors of child and adult sexual exploitation, human trafficking and organized trafficking. Serving survivors locally, nationally and even internationally, the organization bridges the gap between crisis and recovery through trauma informed, survivor-centered care.
Backed by more than 14 years of experience serving survivors, Innocence Freed provides survivor-led aftercare programming, advocacy, support groups, case management, emergency assistance, prevention training, educational opportunities and resources through its Clothed in Grace Boutique sponsored by Clothes Mentor Omaha.
In response to the critical shortage of housing for traffi cking and exploitation survivors, Innocence Freed is actively working to open two residential programs: a faith-based recovery home for adult women and a specialized residential home for girls ages 12-18.
Innocence Freed will host its Rise Up Gala on October 8 at the Relevant Center in Elkhorn, Nebraska bringing together businesses, churches, community leaders and advocates to support survivors and advance the mission of freedom, restoration and hope. For more information, please visit innocencefreed.com.
Lincoln Sports Foundation (lsfcampus.org) is dedicated to providing a place for people to compete, train, host events and be part of what’s happening in the community. With athletes, teams and organizations at the center, they welcome a total of 500,000+ guests each year, ranging over 30+ sports and activities.
Their values encompass inclusions of everyone, different backgrounds, abilities and experiences to create one unifi ed campus where everyone feels safe to compete and have fun. As a nonprofi t, LSF does not receive city, state funding. Donations play an important role in helping provide opportunities for the community and the organizations we serve.
Lincoln Sports Foundation has invested millions into transforming the old Abbott Sports Complex, giving it a new life and renovating a long-standing pillar in the Lincoln community that is now their current campus. Recently, Lincoln Sports Foundation has launched their new website: lsfcampus.org and has now added 18 Pickleball courts to the campus. Through the partnership with Pickleball Lincoln, players can use the PlayTime Scheduler to fi nd available sessions and connect with others in the growing local pickleball community at LSF. More information available at lsfcampus.org.
The nonprofits featured in this month’s issue showcase how dedicated the Lincoln community is to service. At Strictly Business, we are happy to provide a space where these organizations can share the work they do and increase community awareness.
Nonprofits play a major role in shaping the character of our city. By driving communication and support through local events, Lincoln residents are able to connect with each other and shape the communities around them.
Individuals or businesses may sponsor nonprofit to be in this feature, which gives them six months of press release coverage. If you want to sign up your nonprofit reach out to paige@strictlybusinessomaha.com or office@strictlybusiness.com to get more information.