At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of the most vulnerable in our community and work to help support causes many of us connect to. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors an opportunity to be a part of something greater than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.

We were very encouraged to see the outpouring of generosity this year during Give to Lincoln Day (givetolincoln.com) on May 26, organized by the Lincoln Community Foundation (lcf.org) and presented by West Gate Bank (westgate.bank). The donor response was incredible, reaching over $8 million raised. The funds were designated to help support 475 local nonprofits in Lincoln and Lancaster County. This is amazing!

In this Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re highlighting a host of Lincoln’s most impactful nonprofits, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share their stories and promote the work they do throughout the year. We encourage our readers to keep these nonprofits top-of-mind when choosing how to give, whether it’s money, time, or skill.

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 over 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, health and wellness offerings, 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.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum (www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org) invites children to create, discover, and learn through the power of play.

In 1987, a group of committed parents and educators came together to concept a hands-on learning Museum for children in Nebraska. A permanent Museum opened in December 1989 containing a dozen simple, handcrafted exhibits.

Now, the Lincoln Children’s Museum offers three floors and 23,300 square feet of interactive learning through numerous exhibits along with day and summer camps, and learning programs offered at the Museum and throughout the Lincoln community.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is a member of the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM). ACM has nearly 200 children’s museums nationwide.

The Museum is a private non-profit, 501(c)(3), and receives no city, state, or federal tax dollars. When you support the Lincoln Children’s Museum, you’re supporting a future of limitless possibilities to the children of Lincoln. To learn more, visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

The Bridge Behavioral Health (thebridgenebraska.org) is a nationally accredited substance use treatment center. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use treatment and behavioral health intervention. For more than 30 years, The Bridge Behavioral Health has served as an essential part of the community’s safety net, providing compassionate support and treatment to people struggling with substance use and related mental health disorders.

The Bridge Behavioral Health offers a continuum of services including medically-monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment, and recovery support services.

For more information, contact Taylor Brethouwer at tbrethouwer@thebridgenebraska.org or go online to thebridgenebraska.org.

Did you know 1 in 26 people are diagnosed with epilepsy? Or that 1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime?

The Epilepsy Foundation (www.epilepsy.com/local/nebraska), in collaboration with our community and network partners, connects the people, data, and resources needed to address challenging health problems associated with seizures and epilepsy — and promotes education, policy, research, and systemic change that will foster measurable and sustainable improvement for all people living with epilepsy.

We are fiercely committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska provides seizure alert monitors to those in need, responds 24/7 to information and referral requests through the Helpline, educates our community on Seizure First Aid, hosts support groups, promotes grassroots advocacy efforts, and holds local awareness campaigns throughout the year. Together, we are elevating the conversation around epilepsy and fighting the stigmas that persist around living with seizures.

Let’s END EPILEPSY TOGETHER! To learn more, visit www.epilepsy.com/local/nebraska.

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.

For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (BBBSL, bbbsl.org ) has been making matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and young people (“Littles”) ages 7-16 throughout Lincoln. Your support helps develop positive friendships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Bigs can provide new and inspiring opportunities for Littles to explore the community and learn skills that they may not have otherwise had an opportunity to experience.

Our unique community-based one-to-one mentoring is a national, evidence-based program, providing enduring, professionally supported match relationships with measurable impact. Our program offers support to matches year-round outside the classroom.

Currently, BBBSL is in search of our next generation of Bigs! Mentors play an important role in helping young people achieve their full potential. Volunteer as a mentor or donate to support a match. Whichever path suits you, take the first step by visiting us at bbbsl.org or call (402) 464-2227.

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. Its 24-bed home shelters women for up to one year. In 2021, Fresh Start served 60 women, 18,027 meals, and 6,009 nights of lodging. An additional 10 women were served through their community support program, and 43% of the women served in 2021 were mothers.

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.

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.

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area (www.yfclincoln.org) is a nondenominational, nonprofit organization reaching youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. We engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high schools and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with God. Learn more online at www.yfclincoln.org.

Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS, ) 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 market and meal 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 and Gift & Thrift stores 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.

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 or $750 a month, depending on household income levels, 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 launched 11 emotional support programs to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs for teens, kids, siblings, and caregivers; events for the family to attend together; and bereavement support services are now 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 allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.

Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 600 families with over $3.4 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.

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 184 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.

Vision Maker Media (VMM, visionmakermedia.org) is the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans since 1976. Their mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. They envision a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. They work with VMM funded producers to develop, produce, and distribute programs for all public media.

VMM supports training to increase the number of Native Americans and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs. A key strategy for this work is in partnerships with Tribal nations and Native organizations and communities.

Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) funded in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Learn more at visionmakermedia.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@visionmakermedia).

Since 1978, Friendship Home (friendshiphome.org) has helped survivors 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 and a variety of different crisis services.

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 survivors 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.

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM, www.nonprofitam.org) is a state association that represents approximately 750 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.

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.

Matt Talbot - logoWith 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, 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 nine 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 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 the state, offering: results-driven rehabilitation; accessible at-home health care; innovative living communities; resourceful serious illness support; 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.

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 $400,000 to provide more than 17,000 cab rides to cancer patients in need.

The Wear Yellow Cab Ride program, Powered by Lyft, is the primary initiative of the organization and is funded by their signature event, the Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk. Transportation to and from treatment is essential because patients are often unable to drive themselves, which also leaves them vulnerable to additional medical challenges. Even when patients have family and friends who can help, they are not always available and sometimes they just don’t want to ask for one more thing.

Wear Yellow Nebraska touches lives in Lincoln, Omaha, and Fremont—help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org.

The 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.

“Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t.” Since 1965, Community Action Partnership (www.communityactionatwork.org) of Lancaster and Saunders Counties 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.

The Branched Oak Observatory 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.

The Observatory also 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 *coming soon* 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). 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.

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS, www.LFSneb.org) expresses God’s love for all people through quality human care services for people in Nebraska and Pottawattamie County, supporting Safety, Hope, and Well-Being through:

Children Services strengthens families and restores safe, happy childhoods through a continuum of care from prenatal to adulthood. Programs include Centers for Healthy Families in North Omaha and Council Bluffs, Adoption, Foster Care, and RSafe® sexual abuse treatment.

Behavioral Health programs heal minds and hearts through cutting-edge trauma therapy, substance abuse treatment, and integrated care services. Programs include Outpatient Mental Health, Crisis Response, and “LFS At Ease” support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones.

Community Services welcomes and provides comprehensive services to those seeking refuge from violence, oppression, and persecution, including refugee reception/placement, immigration legal services, and the International Center of the Heartland.

Please consider volunteering your time, sharing your expertise, or making a financial gift. Other ways to support LFS include collecting items for donation such as children’s clothing and diapers. To donate or learn more, please visit www.LFSneb.org, send an email to development@LFSneb.org, or call (402) 978-5622.

“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.

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.

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.

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 One Walk – October 2, 2022 at Mahoney State Park
  • JDRF Gala – April 22, 2023 at CHI Health Center Omaha

Programs:

  • Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & policies for affordable & accessible therapies.
  • Support/Networking Groups (virtual until further notice) jdrf.org/virtual-events
  • Give Back at School – School education & fundraising opportunities.
  • Community Outreach – Resources and support for individuals & families.
  • Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.
  • YLC – Young professionals raising awareness & funds for T1D.

Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or call (402) 397-2873.

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.

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.

Loaves & Fishes, Lulu’s on N’s (lulusonn.com) community food program, aims to provide food and support to those experiencing food insecurity in the downtown area. Loaves & 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 on N. Every purchase feeds those who would otherwise go hungry. Good food doing good!

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.

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 is The Arc Expeditions program, which gives 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 Jennifer Stuhmer, executive director, at (402) 421-8866 / director@arclincoln.org or go online to www.advocacypartnership.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.

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska’s (www.mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska) purpose is to “love and serve,” and its mission is to “embrace God’s call to relentlessly pursue opportunities to empower people.” The values woven through our work to serve those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and others with diverse needs are belonging, connection, faithfulness, and especially grit during these challenging times.

“To empower” at Mosaic means helping those we serve achieve their best or most meaningful life by providing truly specialized services to help them achieve their goals and dreams; working with those we serve to have closer ties to the community to open up volunteer and employment opportunities for them; and Mosaic standing alongside those we serve to advocate with and for them to bring awareness to issues that affect their lives and promote public policy that positively impacts them.

This empowerment of people we support ranges from helping someone communicate for the first time to helping another gain enough independence to secure a job and live in their own home. If you would like to learn more or to donate, please visit www.mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska.

The Willard Community Center (www.willardcommunitycenter.org), located at 1245 S. Folsom St., has been an anchoring presence, serving various roles in a geographically large West “A” neighborhood for an impressive 42 years. Willard has become the place that neighborhood schools and families look to for trusted early childhood education, school-age youth development, and educational continuity. They serve everyone, from preschool to senior citizens, and proudly offer a full range of early childhood development programs. These programs include preschool, pre-k, before- and after-school programs at Roper Elementary and the Community Learning Center at Lakeview Elementary School, in addition to summer programming for children ages 3-13 years old.

Willard Community Center’s calendar boasts time for licensed Bingo for adults and senior citizens, adult exercise, hobby groups, and support groups. They also have scouting programs and provide a community gathering space for neighborhood families, groups, and businesses. To learn more, visit www.willardcommunitycenter.org.

Established in 1992, The Mediation Center (themediationcenter.org) fills a unique and important niche in our community. With staff possessing expertise in conflict resolution and consensus building strategies, along with the commitment of nearly 100 extensively trained mediators, over the years thousands of mediations have benefited thousands of individuals. The Center operates on a sliding fee scale and is dedicated to providing anyone in our community access to professional mediation services regardless of their ability to pay.

Mediation is a non-adversarial process for resolving disputes guided by a neutral third party mediator. The Mediation Center is proud of the quality and breadth of their programming and works relentlessly towards achieving a future for our community where mediation is the first option considered to resolve conflict and preserve relationships.

Call The Mediation Center at (402) 441-5740 or go to the website at themediationcenter.org for more information or to request services.

As Nebraska’s largest nonprofit legal immigration services provider, Immigrant Legal Center (ILC, www.immigrantlc.org) serves an irreplaceable role in the communities we serve. ILC serves the most vulnerable immigrants, including those living in extreme poverty, victims fleeing domestic violence, children who have been abused and/or abandoned, and those who would be persecuted if returned to their country of origin. They support workforce and community development by securing work permits, green cards, and other forms of relief for Nebraska workers. ILC’s work helps our community reach its full potential and makes our cities stronger and healthier by empowering immigrants to obtain access to education, healthcare, and work opportunities that allow them to live and work with confidence and free from fear.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY: Join Immigrant Legal Center on September 25 in Omaha for their annual Food Truck World Tour. Sponsorships and information available at www.immigrantlc.org or contact Cailan Franz at cailan@immigrantlc.org.

Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC Lincoln, Lincoln.cbmc.com) is part of a global network of men in the marketplace who want to develop personally, professionally and spiritually. These are men who aspire to honor God in their businesses and work. CBMC encourages men to connect 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 Professionals (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. When men connect with CBMC, they become part of a trusted band of brothers who are there to provide support and encouragement.

To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997 or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com.

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.

Voices of Hope (www.voicesofhopelincoln.org) provides 24-hour-a-day services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, incest, stalking, and related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to victims of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for 47 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line, (402) 475-7273, and victim advocacy at hospitals. Voices of Hope also offers support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs, and providing advocacy for students at all college campuses. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,200 unduplicated survivors. Their free and confidential services are available to women and men.

Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers and wipes, and office supplies. To learn more, visit www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Since 1993, the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® (MakingStridesWalk.org/lincolnne) campaign has united communities, companies, and individuals with a collective goal to end breast cancer as we know it. Over the decades, Making Strides has collectively grown into the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement – providing a supportive community for courageous breast cancer survivors and metastatic breast cancer thrivers, caregivers, and families alike.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer funds lifesaving breast cancer research and is committed to advancing health equity through programs and services, believing that all people have a fair and just opportunity to live a longer, healthier life free from breast cancer – regardless of how much money they make, the color of their skin, their sexual orientation, gender identity, their disability status, or where they live.

Dollars raised help the American Cancer Society fund innovative research; provide education and guidance to help people reduce their risk; and offer comprehensive patient support to those who need it most, such as providing free rides to chemo, places to stay when treatment is far from home, the live 24/7 helpline, and so much more.

To learn more about American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® and how you can become involved, visit MakingStridesWalk.org/lincolnne or contact Lisa McClung at lisa.mcclung@cancer.org.

City Impact (www.cityimpact.org) empowers under-resourced communities through wholistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They mentor, teach, and empower under-resourced youth, cultivating leaders who affect lasting change. Through core values of grit, empowerment, initiative, excellence, community, and radical candor, City Impact encourages transformation from the inside out.

Needs: Monthly mentors, weekly reading tutors during the school year, weekly faith program volunteers, sponsors or donations for kids’ store, and monthly program supporters.

For more information about City Impact, contact Lisa Guill at (402) 477-8080 / lguill@cityimpact.org or visit www.cityimpact.org. Follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected.

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.

RISE (www.seeusrise.org) is the largest nonprofit organization in Nebraska focused solely on habilitative programming in prisons and reentry support. At RISE, transformation starts pre-release and continues post-release. Their inside/out model bridges incarceration to the community and considers all the critical steps in that journey. They prepare and train people for each phase through intensive character development, employment readiness, job creation through entrepreneurship, family programming, and case management. RISE transforms people in the community by building awareness and empathy that leads to support and opportunity. These connections heal families, create employment pathways, and lower recidivism.

In addition to RISE’s In-Prison Program facilitated in seven state correctional facilities, RISE also offers a Youth and Family Program and the RISE Business Academy, a 12-week entrepreneurship program helping returning citizens launch new businesses.

The mission of RISE is to break generational cycles of incarceration. To learn more, visit www.seeusrise.org or call (402) 999-8063.

The mission of the Region V Foundation (regionvservices.com/foundation) is to support Region V Services and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. The Region V Foundation helps provide services that may not be available through usual funding methods, including day services, transportation, housing, job coaching, and other programs and experiences. Region V has been serving the Lincoln area and Southeast Nebraska for over 45 years. We strive for a community where those who experience disabilities are included. By providing tools and resources, we educate the public and connect members of the community. To learn more, please visit regionvservices.com/foundation or call (402) 471-6400.

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.

Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (www.casa4lancaster.org), or CASA for Lancaster County, 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), Twitter (@CASALancasterCo), and Instagram (@casa4lanco).

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.

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.