At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Our commitment to supporting local nonprofits stems from recognizing their pivotal role in addressing the pressing needs of our community’s most vulnerable segments. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of those who are vulnerable in our community and work to help support causes many of us connect to.
These organizations not only champion causes that resonate deeply with us, but also play a significant role in job creation, providing invaluable opportunities for individuals – be they workers, volunteers or donors – to contribute meaningfully to causes larger than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors, keeping a culture of humanity, art and philanthropy alive.
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. By engaging in these acts of generosity, we collectively uphold a tradition of giving back to our community and fortify the crucial missions of these organizations, contributing to making Nebraska a great place to work and live.
Our Supporting Nonprofits feature is a biannual initiative occurring in January and July, designed to showcase and highlight the work of numerous nonprofits within our community. While many nonprofits actively engage with us throughout the year, some opt for participation during specific periods, aligning with significant milestones or events. For January, we have some excellent nonprofits, all of which need and welcome your support, and we encourage you to get involved in their events and efforts!
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 250 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 Clubs (GNC) are after-school clubs during the school year that primarily meet in local public schools. During the summer, their Five-Day Clubs go 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.
Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln (lincolnhabitat.org) has helped families build strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable homeownership families like Blanca and her four children.
Habitat strives to help families like Blanca’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 199 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.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha (tabitha.org) empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, compassionate hospice services and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). For all Senior Care needs, ‘Tabitha is the Answer.’
Each year Tabitha must fundraise to supplement the cost of Seniors’ care. Medicaid and Medicare do not come close to fully reimbursing Tabitha to cover costs.
Connect with Tabitha’s Foundation to make a donation to support Seniors TODAY. Call (402) 486-8520 or go to Tabitha.org/Give.
Filament Essential Services (filamentservices.org) is a nonprofit dedicated to enabling other nonprofits to make a greater impact by easing the burdens of administrative tasks. Our fractional business services will free you up to concentrate on what truly matters – fulfilling your mission and changing the world.
Improve Organization Visibility by defining your brand identity, upgrading communications materials, producing captivating videos and creating targeted campaigns.
Ensure Financial Stability with our meticulous bookkeeping, payroll processing, financial reporting and compliance guidance.
Safeguard Donor Information following our certified vCISO and CISSP support that establishes compliance with industry standards.
Resolve Technology Issues by subscribing to our Managed Services Program to support your software and hardware infrastructure.
For more information about Filament Essential Services, visit filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600.
The Malone Community Center (malonecenter.org) was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban League. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African Americans were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community.
For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors and the Lincoln community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold their mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy and leadership development.
For more information about the Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.
Voices of Hope (voicesofhopelincoln.org) provides 24-hour 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 48 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 and basic needs as well as providing a campus advocate for students. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Their free and confidential services are available to women and men. Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards and donations of basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers and wipes and office supplies. To learn more, visit www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) (nebcommfound.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, 45,993 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $517 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.
The mission of the Apace (goapace.com), previously Region V Foundation, is to support and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. Apace helps provide services that may not be available through usual funding methods, including day services, transportation, housing, job coaching and other programs and experiences. Apace 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 GoApace.com or call (402) 471-6400.
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. Since 1984, The Bridge 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 offers a continuum of services including medically-monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment and outpatient counseling.
For more information, contact Brianna Georgeson at development@thebridgenebraska.org or visit thebridgenebraska.org.
The Pregnancy Center (pregnancycenterlincoln.org) is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O St. Every month, over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools, all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers. Learn more at pregnancycenterlincoln.org.
People’s City Mission (PCM) (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 permanent supportive 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 for more information. You can also visit www.pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more information.
For over 20 years, Domesti-PUPS (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 lifesaving measures for their disabled partners. Learn more online at www.domesti-pups.org.
The American Heart Association (heart.org/nebraska) 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 and stroke.
Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
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 www.heart.org/nebraska.
Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln (arclincoln.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. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Stuhmer, Executive Director, at (402) 421-8866 / director@arclincoln.org. Visit www.arclincoln.org for more information.
Camp Quality Heartland (campqualityusa.org) began in 1994 and is one of 19 camps in the Camp Quality USA family. We are a 501(c)(3) that provides year-round support activities for children with cancer and their families at no cost. Our program includes a week-long summer camp and other activities held throughout the year. We currently provide programming for families across the states of Nebraska and Iowa. Campers range from ages five through 17 and vary in stages of their treatment or remission. They are children who smile, laugh, play and have dreams for a bright future. Understanding that a cancer diagnosis impacts an entire family, our programming includes siblings as well. Surrounded by new friends that can relate, loving volunteers who care and loads of fun experiences, Camp Quality campers find joy, courage and renewed hope for their future.
For more information on how to register, volunteer or donate, contact heartland@campqualityusa.org / (330) 968-8924 or visit www.campqualityusa.org.
Vision Maker Media (VMM) (visionmakermedia.org) envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. What began as a film archive to conserve and document Native American stories transformed into the nation’s leader in content by and about Indigenous people for public broadcasting. For over 47 years, VMM has helped develop, produce and distribute programs to educate and engage audiences. Through programs like the Creative Shorts Fellowship, Public Media Fund and the Native Youth Media Project, VMM provides mentorship, training and funding to nurture the next generation of filmmakers, and has a catalog of films available for purchase to use in the classroom and other educational spaces. Vision Maker Media shines a long-overdue light on the foundation of American history with Native American perspectives, while empowering and engaging the next generation of Native filmmakers to share their stories. For more information, visit visionmakermedia.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 and substance use counseling services for adults 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, visit www.lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581.
The Junior League of Lincoln (JLL) (jll.org) is an inclusive organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Junior League of Lincoln currently runs community impact projects – Clothesline, HomeStart and the JLL Diaper Bank – which foster the well-being of women and children in Lincoln through education, direct service, fundraising and advocacy. The league’s goal is to create an environment that welcomes a diverse group of women where all members feel connected to each other, to the JLL mission and to the community. JLL provides significant training to all provisional, active and sustaining members, which encourages them to make a unique, valuable and lasting contribution to JLL and the community, and to ensure continuity of leadership and establish the JLL as a leadership development resource in the community. For more information, visit jll.org.
Break away from the pack of ordinary after-school programs with Girls on the Run of Nebraska (GOTR) (GOTRNebraska.org), which celebrated its 20th anniversary this last school year.
Girls on the Run teams meet twice weekly each season to build skills in goal-setting, communication and decision making while they train to complete a 5K run/walk with other GOTR teams. Since its inception with 11 girls in Lincoln in 2003, GOTR-Nebraska has expanded to serve more than 24,000 girls at 100+ sites across the state.
Teams of third through sixth grade girls are coached by volunteers who help girls put their best foot forward with friendship, physical activity and a 5K fun. The GOTR 5K is a celebration of every girl’s hard work, and the entire GOTR experience is valuable to promote physical, social and emotional growth.
“GOTR is an excellent way for my daughter to develop relationships with other children, as well as promote good health and exercise,” wrote one parent. “She absolutely adored her coaches, who were always supportive and helpful.”
To learn more about Girls on the Run, visit www.GOTRNebraska.org.
The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) (NebraskaSportsCouncil.com) stands as a premier organization fostering community engagement through sports and physical activity. At the heart of its initiatives are the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, events that unite businesses in friendly competition, promoting teamwork and healthy lifestyle. These games serve as a platform for corporations to build camaraderie among employees while emphasizing the importance of fitness and well-being.
The NSC, committed to enriching sports culture in Nebraska, actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Corporations aligning with the NSC gain exposure and contribute to the development of a healthier and more connected community. Sponsorship opportunities encompass a range of engagement levels, from event-specific branding to sustained partnerships, allowing businesses to tailor their involvement according to their marketing and charitable objectives. By supporting the NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play a vital role in fostering a dynamic, active and interconnected Nebraska community. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
Lincoln TeamMates (lincolnteammates.org) matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades three-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experience. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once each week and take place at school. TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 32 years, program outcomes have confirmed 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 benefits 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.
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (mtko.org) is dedicated to helping the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible. Our vision is to defeat hunger and homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is a hunger relief and outreach center. In a typical year, Matt Talbot provides approximately 180,000 meals through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and distribution of donated high-quality food and 45,000 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. Matt Talbot has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for nine consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics and was recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal on our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.
Learn more at www.mtko.org.
Disability Rights Nebraska (disabilityrightsnebraska.org) advocates alongside and on behalf of people to help make sure the legal rights, human rights, dignity and worth of all individuals with any kind of disability are recognized, promoted and defended. As an independent nonprofit organization, we are not connected to any public or private service-providing agency. We have the authority to protect and advocate for the rights of Nebraskans with disabilities through the following:
- legal advice and representation
- public policy advocacy
- systems change
- relationship-based advocacy (Citizen Advocacy)
- self-advocacy skill development
- training for inclusive education volunteer lay advocates
Established in 1977 as part of the national Protection & Advocacy network mandated by Congress, our current focus areas are Freedom from Harm (Abuse & Neglect), Inclusion in the Community and Engaging People with Disabilities in Advocacy. For more information, visit www.disabilityrightsnebraska.org.
The Lincoln Children’s Museum (LCM) (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 conceive 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 nonprofit, 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.
Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) (lcf.org) facilitates positive change for the common good. LCF’s mission is to inspire our community to give, act and lead.
Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The organization serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $185 million. LCF has distributed more than $230 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of our residents.
The success of Lincoln Community Foundation is measured by the quality of life achieved for people today and generations to come. Find out more online at www.lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.
More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s (HCF) (heartlandcancerfoundation.org) mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.
If YOU are passionate about supporting local cancer patients who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, YOU can get involved by sponsoring one of HCF’s signature events like the Mardi Gras Gala, Oncology Symposium or Heartland Golf Classic, or by becoming an Impact Partner and having a presence at all events year-round.
Other ways YOU can show your support include volunteering, joining the Impact Guild, setting up a recurring gift or including HCF as a beneficiary in your legacy plans.
Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life. If you’re ready to provide hope, learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln (YMCALincoln.org). The YMCA has served the community for over 150 years – promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. Today, the YMCA 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 YMCA knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the YMCA 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.
Christian Record Services, Inc. (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.
The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) (theboo.org) 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. 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.”
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). 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) nonprofit organization.
Aiding Angels (aidingangels.com) is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing FREE, professional house cleaning 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.
HopeSpoke (hopespoke.org) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. 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:
- Outpatient counseling
- School-based therapy
- Extended day treatment
- Crisis and residential services
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 programs, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.
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 lives. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line. Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and wellbeing program is customized for their needs and size. Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies. The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more.
Based in Lincoln, nonprofit Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska (mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska) is part of a whole-person healthcare organization across 13 states in more than 700 communities serving people with intellectual and developmental needs. Mosaic’s 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 Mosaic’s work are belonging, connection, faithfulness and grit.
At Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, “to empower” means providing truly personalized services to those it supports to achieve their best or most meaningful life, working with them and their families to create closer ties to the community in order to open up volunteer and employment opportunities and Mosaic standing alongside them 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 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 about Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska’s services, to donate, volunteer or inquire about employment, please go to mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska.
Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) (casa4lancaster.org) 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 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 visit www.casa4lancaster.org / Facebook @CASA4LancasterCo.
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.
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.
The Foundry Community (thefoundry.co) exists to support, educate and develop the Nebraska purpose-driven community. We offer a range of resources, including internship opportunities through Intern Foundry, meeting rooms, event spaces and a specialized coworking environment tailored for nonprofits. By joining our community, organizations can accelerate their impact pathway through fiscal sponsorships, benefiting from reliable services and added capacity with internship partnerships with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Honors program. Our commitment extends beyond physical spaces; we deeply value our members, working hard to provide infrastructure support that sets up Lincoln-based nonprofits and purpose-driven businesses for success. The Foundry Community enables small organizations to focus on their core missions, empowering them to make a direct and positive impact on the world. Join us today to become part of a collaborative network that fosters growth, community and success. For more information and to become a member, visit thefoundry.co.
“Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t.” Since 1965, Community Action Partnership (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 2022, Community Action provided over 100,000 poverty-fighting services to over 18,000 individuals in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit www.communityactionatwork.org.
For 92 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.
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 also 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 encouragement and accountability and share wisdom.
To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne) or visit lincoln.cbmc.com.
Summer should be fun and filled with new experiences, and Bright Lights (BrightLights.org) provides all of that!
Serving kindergarten-eighth grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships.
For Summer 2024, camps take place June 3-7; June 10-14; June 17-21; June 24-28 and July 8-12. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature and music with most having a STEAM connection.
The full Summer 2024 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, March 2, at 8:00 a.m. at BrightLights.org.
Bright Lights provides Before Care and Lunch Care at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.
Angels Among Us (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. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.
Angels Among Us recently moved into its new space, The Harper Hope Center. This space allows Angels Among Us to conduct programmatic events and support groups for the pediatric cancer families they serve, on site, for the first time. We are now located on 89th and Indian Hills Drive at 220 N 89th St. STE 101 in Omaha.
Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 700 families with over $5 million in support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.
Family Health Services (LoveSafely.com) is here to help! Our nonprofit healthcare organization serves nine southeast Nebraska counties. Patients can get reproductive healthcare on an income-based sliding fee basis. More than half of the 1,500 patients that Family Health Services cares for every year are uninsured or underinsured which qualifies them for free or reduced-price services. We also accept private insurance, Medicaid and Every Woman Matters.
We believe all our neighbors should have access to reproductive and sexual healthcare regardless of ability to pay. Our caring and comprehensive providers are available Monday-Friday for all your reproductive health needs (preventative screenings, women’s gynecological visits, birth control consultations, STD/STI testing and treatment, cervical cancer screenings/PAPs, breast cancer screenings and many other services).
Visit us at LoveSafely.com or call (402) 466-1012 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Visit us in Lincoln at 630 N Cotner, STE 204 (near Gateway Mall).
Youth for Christ Lincoln (www.yfclincoln.org) reaches young people who are: pregnant, in jail or walking the hallways of a local school. At pivotal moments we want to be there for teens, to walk alongside them and give them a chance to hear about God and make an informed decision about Him. Our largest program is Campus Life. We are currently building a new Campus Life youth center on our property on Pine Lake Rd. Learn more about our ministries and our project at www.yfclincoln.org.
City Impact (cityimpact.org) is a faith-based nonprofit organization in Lincoln focused on empowering and equipping kids and families to rise above vulnerable circumstances through a Christ-centered biblical worldview, radically transforming them into who God created them to be. With diverse programs and initiatives, this organization tackles various issues impacting youth and families.
From transitional housing for families to educational opportunities for youth, and from mental health and wellness programs to mentoring and guiding young people toward a brighter future, City Impact’s holistic approach addresses the needs of individuals from all walks of life. City Impact aims to catalyze positive change through core values of community, excellence and a growth mindset. It creates a ripple effect that instills hope, purpose and a sense of belonging in those it serves.
Needs: Weekly literacy tutors, weekly faith program volunteers, donations and sponsorships to help support City Impact’s free community programs.
For more information about City Impact, call (402) 477-8080, email info@cityimpact.org or visit www.cityimpact.org. Follow on Facebook and Twitter to stay connected.
Fresh Start (FreshStartHome.org) has given a “fresh start” to over 1,800 women who were striving to live a better life. As a nonprofit transitional housing program for women, Fresh Start offers more than just a safe place to live. It’s a goals-based program that empowers women to change their lives by recognizing and overcoming barriers to self-sufficiency. With Fresh Start, women 19 years and older who are experiencing homelessness for any reason have the opportunity to live in a safe, supportive environment for up to a year, affording them more time to focus on their long-term goals, address barriers and enact change.
Donations of toilet paper, tissue and disinfectant cleaning items are needed.
Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media (Facebook: @FreshStartHomeLincoln; Twitter: @FreshStartLNK). To donate or learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Monica at (402) 475-7777 / monicaz@FreshStartHome.org.
Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS) of Southern Nebraska (csshope.org) is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually.
Catholic Social Services provides food market and meal services, family support services – which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, immigration services and St. Gianna Program (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse). 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.