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.
Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state and even better place to live, and so we want to being awareness to their efforts. Our Supporting Nonprofits feature is a place to recognzie some of these amazing organzations and the work they’re doing locally. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they are choosing to give back to Lincoln this year. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will have positive ripple effects in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.
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.
For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (BBBSL) (bbbsmidlands.org) has operated under the belief that inherent in every young person is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. The Big Brothers Big Sisters’ vision is for all youth to achieve their full potential. To fulfill that vision, the mission of BBBS is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. BBBS Lincoln is part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) network. As a donor and volunteer supported organization, BBBSM is committed to defending the potential of youth in the Lincoln and Omaha/Council Bluffs metro areas, spanning across nine counties in Nebraska and Iowa. Through the establishment of nearly 150 mentoring relationships this year, BBBSL strives to provide a solid foundation for personal growth, academic achievement, and positive development. To volunteer, donate, or acquire further information about our initiatives, please visit bbbsmidlands.org or contact us at (402) 330-2449, option 4. Stay connected and informed by following Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (@bbbslincoln) on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
The Team Jack Foundation (TeamJackFoundation.org) is dedicated to advancing groundbreaking research and increasing national awareness of pediatric brain cancer. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $13.7 million and supported 20 research projects globally, including a $6.5 million commitment to the University of Nebraska Medical Center to establish a childhood brain tumor program. Pediatric brain cancer, though relatively rare, is one of the most difficult cancers to treat and remains the leading cause of disease-related deaths among children. Nebraska ranks seventh nationally in brain tumor incidence rates, highlighting the urgent need for continued research, heightened awareness and innovative treatments.
Your support can help change the future for children battling this devastating disease. Visit TeamJackFoundation.org to learn more about how you can contribute to funding transformative research and improving outcomes for pediatric brain cancer patients. Together, we can make a difference.
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 Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation (joshtheotter.org) was founded by Blake and Kathy Collingsworth after their personal tragedy of losing their son, Josh, due to accidental drowning. Out of this tragedy has come a worldwide foundation whose sole mission is to educate children and adults about water safety and drowning prevention. The local nonprofit foundation is recognized nationally and internationally for the Josh the Otter Water Safety Awareness Program and Float 4 Life.
“Josh the Baby Otter” was designed to help children comprehend and remember to stay away from water unless accompanied by an adult. Hundreds of thousands of copies have been distributed globally. With ongoing support, they will continue to incorporate the Josh the Otter Program in every educational curriculum in the United States and beyond. Beyond the well-known book, they have created life jacket loaner stations at numerous lakes in the surrounding areas, with plans to keep increasing numbers of stations and locations.
Float 4 Life was designed to teach and promote infant and toddler water safety training across the nation. Our Float 4 Life program which incorporates water training and water safety education also serves as the National Training Facility to instructors from all over the United States.
To view more information, please go to joshtheotter.org.
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.
The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter (alz.org/Nebraska) is a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Through its mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease, the Association advances research, provides expert care and support, and promotes brain health to reduce the risk of dementia. With a vision of a world without Alzheimer’s, the Association works tirelessly to fund groundbreaking studies, advocate for policies that benefit individuals and families affected by the disease, and offer resources like the 24/7 Helpline and local support groups. Together, we’re making strides toward a future where no one has to face this disease alone. If you are interested in sponsoring an event, please reach out to nebraskainfo@alz.org or visit alz.org/Nebraska.
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.
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 aidingangels.com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.
Clinic With a Heart (clinicwithaheart.org) is a faith-inspired organization that helps people who are uninsured and underinsured through a ministry of healthcare. It started because of a week in Reynosa, Mexico in 2002, when Dr. Rob Rhodes was providing free healthcare to a disadvantaged population. After they ended their medical mission in Reynosa, Mexico, they related it to home asking the question, “If we can provide free healthcare in Mexico, why wouldn’t we provide free healthcare in our own backyard?” Then, after verifying the need, the inspired and motivated team started their journey to provide free healthcare in Lincoln, Nebraska. Clinic With a Heart was officially sanctioned as a nonprofit organization and opened its first free healthcare clinic in May, 2003.
Today, each clinic night is sponsored by a mission team. The team provides the coordination of service and funding. Mission team sponsors include seven different churches, a temple, two hospitals, and one education institution.
All service provided at Clinic With a Heart is free of charge for the patient. For more information, visit clinicwithaheart.org.
TeamMates of Lincoln (lincolnteammates.org) matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades 3-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experiences. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once a week and take place at school.
TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 33 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults help students – especially those with multiple live 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.
Filament Essential Services (filamentservices.org) empowers nonprofits to focus on their mission by providing essential operational support. We help organizations thrive by addressing critical needs so they can make a greater impact.
- Build Your Visibility: Strengthen your brand, create compelling content and execute strategic marketing campaigns.
- Ensure Financial Stability: Rely on expert bookkeeping, payroll, financial reporting and compliance support.
- Protect Your Data: Safeguard donor information with our certified cybersecurity services, ensuring trust and compliance.
- Optimize Your Technology: Streamline IT operations with managed services and technology solutions tailored to your needs.
- Enhance Leadership and Growth: Develop your team and strategies with workshops, board development and capacity-building programs.
Visit filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600 to discover how Filament Essential Services can support your organization’s success.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha (Tabitha.org/Give) empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Supporting families across Nebraska since 1886, Tabitha —an Eventide Affiliate—offers a range of services: results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-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 the Tabitha Foundation to make a donation to support Seniors TODAY. Call (402) 486-8520 or go to Tabitha.org/Give.
Nebraska Community Foundation (NebraskaHometown.org) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 270 communities. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.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.
Voices of Hope (voicesofhopelincoln.org) provides 24-hour services to all genders who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to individuals of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for 48 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line (402) 475-7273, victim advocacy courts/hospitals, support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs and campus advocacy. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic need items such as personal hygiene items, household items, and security cameras. To learn more visit voicesofhopelincoln.org.
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 arclincoln.org for more information.
The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) (cefnebraska.org) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 350 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages five to 12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Club is an after-school Bible club during the school year that primarily meets in local public elementary schools. During the summer, their Summer Good News Club (formerly the Five-Day Club) goes where the children are – neighborhoods, homes and parks.
CEF of Nebraska brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children for an opportunity in which to make a life-changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment. If you would like to know more, please contact Matt Anderson at matta@cefnebraska.org / (402) 480-5515.
For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) (knb.org) has worked for the betterment of Nebraska through waste reduction, recycling and community beautification. KNB’s mission is to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affiliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), KNB coordinates KAB events in the state of Nebraska and is a statewide resource for its 20 local community affiliates and all Nebraska residents.
The largest programs offered through KNB are the Nebraska School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, Materials Exchange Program, Used Oil Collection Program, Food Waste Reduction Program and Household Hazardous Waste Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/awareness.
To learn more, call us at (402) 486-4562 or visit knb.org for more information.
Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS) (csshope.org) of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually.
Catholic Social Services provides food 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 csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.
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.”
Opening SOON! Come view our newest observatory the Miller Astrophotography Research Center (MARC). Check out our Facebook page for the latest announcements!
The Observatory has a radio telescope to view the electronic spectrum of the universe, a SATCOM array for communications with the International Space Station and other satellites, a Cosmic Ray Detector and an Earth Moon Earth EME array that will allow them to bounce radio signals off the surface of the moon and back to Earth!
Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). Keep checking back to see about our “NEW” operating hours! If you would like more information, visit theboo.org or contact Matt Anderson at matthew@branchedoakobservatory.com / (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The Pregnancy Center of Lincoln (pregnancycenterlincoln.org) is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln, just off O Street. Every day women in our community visit the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need love and support, and many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center provides comprehensive information about every option available to women facing an unintended pregnancy. The center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting and birth classes all at no cost to their clients or taxpayers.
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 their Executive Director, Ed Thornbrugh at (402) 477-3951 or visit thebridgenebraska.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.
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 domesti-pups.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 qualify for levels of $550 or $825 a month, depending on household income, for the duration of their critical treatment plan. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures funds are used for their intended purpose. AAU is the only organization providing long-term sustained funding to pediatric cancer families in the region.
In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched emotional support programming in 2022 to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs include Kids Link, Women’s Recharge, Healing Hearts, and events for the whole family. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of both financial and emotional support.
Since 2006, over 720 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit myangelsamongus.org.
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 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 heart.org/nebraska.
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 children and adults through Stepping Stones, and the provision of training and technical assistance to help school identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP). To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, visit lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581.
Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) (nebraskadiaperbank.org) believes that ALL babies deserve clean diapers. Since 2014, NDB has operated a growing diaper distribution program, working collaboratively with other social service agencies to serve the community.
Clean, dry diapers are necessary for the health and well-being of growing babies, yet many families struggle to provide enough diapers for their child’s needs. Diapers are not covered by SNAP, WIC or Medicaid, so for families who stretch every dollar, the extra burden of $80+ for diapers every month can be the breaking point.
NDB focuses on filling this gap for low-income families in Nebraska. By distributing diapers to families through trusted partner agencies, NDB reduces financial stress and empowers parents to work, attend school, and provide a more stable environment for their children. NDB currently serves over 4,700 babies each month, distributing over 300,000 diapers in our state. Learn more at nebraskadiaperbank.org.
Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Lancaster County (casa4lancaster.org) is a local nonprofit that recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers get to know the children and 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 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. Our mission is more than words. We always aim to prevent and relieve suffering with every action. The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. Red Cross supporters provide a beacon of hope. From helping during disasters and ensuring access to lifesaving blood, to providing training to save lives and supporting military communities, the Red Cross is there when help can’t wait. To learn more, visit redcross.org.
The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (mtko.org) is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is a hunger relief and outreach center dedicated to helping the homeless and near-homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible. Each year over 250,000 meals are provided through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and the distribution of donated high-quality food and over 50,000 outreach and homeless prevention services are provided including housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, education classes, homeless diversion and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Matt Talbot has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for ten consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, and is recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.
Learn more at mtko.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 pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram and X for more information.
Summer should be fun and filled with new experiences, and Bright Lights (BrightLights.org) provides all of that and more!
Serving K-8th 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 2025, camps take place June 2-6; June 9-13; June 16-20; June 23-27 and July 7-11. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature and music with most having a STEAM connection.
The full Summer 2025 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, March 1 at 8:00 am 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.
The Mission of 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.
Vision Maker Media’s (VMM) (visionmakermedia.org) mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. By funding and working with producers to develop, produce and distribute programs, VMM supports training to increase the number of Native Americans and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs.
With initiatives like the Creative Shorts Fellowship (CSF) and the Native Youth Media Project (NYMP), VMM fosters the next generation of storytellers. CSF equips Native filmmakers with mentorship, funding and resources to craft innovative short films that honor cultural traditions through modern media. NYMP empowers young storytellers with hands-on training in media production, amplifying innate storytelling talent and sharing finished films with communities. VMM amplifies Native voices and inspires and connects generations through the art of storytelling.
Vision Maker Media (VMM) envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. Visit visionmakermedia.org.
Global Ties Nebraska (globaltiesnebraska.org), a Lincoln nonprofit and community-based member affiliate of Global Ties U.S., is on a mission to advancing global citizen diplomacy in Nebraska. Working closely with the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties Nebraska organizes impactful programming for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), creating opportunities for visiting international leaders to engage with local community members, gain valuable insights, and build lasting connections in Nebraska.
Global Ties Nebraska’s programs support the vision of IVLP by connecting Nebraska community members with international leaders through professional exchanges, cultural activities, and unique Dinner Diplomat experiences, where visitors dine in local homes, gaining an authentic perspective on American culture and values. These exchanges promote citizen diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and goodwill across borders while empowering local Nebraskans to become active participants in global conversations.
Visit globaltiesnebraska.org for more information.
Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties (communityactionatwork.org) has been partnering with its community in fearless pursuit of anti-poverty solutions so all have the opportunity to live well.
Community Action provides 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 gives children and families the education and supports for success in kindergarten and beyond; Emergency Services, which provides rent, utility, and deposit assistance to those at-risk of and experiencing homelessness; and the Gathering Place, which provides free hot, nutritious meals to anyone experiencing hunger in Lincoln.
In 2023, Community Action provided over 109,000 anti-poverty services to over 17,000 individuals. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit communityactionatwork.org.
For 93 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.
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 out 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 have a presence at all events year-round.
Other ways YOU can show your support includes 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.
Through partnerships and collaboration Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) (lcf.org) facilitates positive change for the common good. LCF’s mission is to inspire out 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 stewards for many types of philanthropic gifts and help donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of the LCF have grown to more than $250 million. LCF has distributed more than $255 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 lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.
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This is an excellent opportunity for your organization to promote your cause and share your news!
Please call (402) 466-3330 or email kacey@strictlybusinessomaha.com if you are interested in participating!