Social and community groups in Nebraska: Strong community support network. Active volunteer organizations. Diverse cultural festivals. Numerous recreational clubs. Thriving arts communities. Extensive library programs. Numerous religious communities. Active senior groups. Youth engagement opportunities. Local food cooperatives.
Strong community support network.
The Coalition for a Strong Nebraska (CSN) builds a strong community support network by organizing and building capacity within Nebraska's network of nonprofits to impact poverty policy, promote public policy solutions, and improve the lives of people experiencing poverty through collaboration, trainings, and collective advocacy. CSN focuses on issues such as worker supports, housing, food security, economic stability, and criminal justice, with a commitment to community voice, structural change, collective impact, expertise, and advancing equity. For more information, visit the Coalition for a Strong Nebraska webpage to explore their initiatives and find out how you can contribute to these critical efforts.
Active volunteer organizations.
The Nebraska Medical Reserve Corps, Citizen Corps, and American Red Cross are pivotal volunteer organizations in Nebraska, focusing on medical and public health initiatives, community preparedness, and disaster response. Meanwhile, Volunteer Nebraska is committed to engaging both children and adults in community service, offering a structured framework for volunteer projects, service hour tracking, and volunteer recognition, all aimed at fortifying community networks. The University of Nebraska Omaha's Office of Volunteer and Civic Engagement plays a crucial role by linking students, faculty, and staff with volunteer opportunities and civic engagement events, thereby supporting local nonprofit organizations and community projects. Additionally, UNO Pre-Health students are encouraged to participate in volunteer work through organizations like the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and local hospitals to foster community service and civic engagement. The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging further contributes by providing volunteer opportunities through initiatives such as the Foster Grandparent Program, Ombudsman, and Senior Companion Program, offering vital community service and support to seniors.
Diverse cultural festivals.
Nebraska hosts a diverse array of cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating various ethnic origins such as Czech, Swedish, Danish, Mexican, Native American, and German, among others. These festivals, held in different cities, feature traditional food, music, dances, and other cultural activities that contribute to the local economy and community identity. One such festival opens a gateway to learning and appreciating these vibrant cultural contributions. For more information about these celebrations, you can visit the Nebraska Council On Economic Education which offers valuable resources and insights. These events not only honor the rich cultural heritage of their communities but also promote unity and awareness among diverse populations.
Numerous recreational clubs.
In the Omaha metro area of Nebraska, there are numerous recreational, sports, and social clubs employing over 1,781 people, generating more than $131 million in revenue annually, and possessing assets totaling $192 million. These vibrant organizations, including various sports teams, country clubs, and community recreation centers, bolster the community's sense of camaraderie and well-being. Esteemed institutions such as the Happy Hollow Club, Field Club of Omaha, and Nebraska Multisport Complex exemplify the diverse offerings available to residents and visitors alike. Discover more about these dynamic organizations and their contributions to the region by visiting the Cause IQ website.
Thriving arts communities.
Nebraska's thriving arts communities are supported through the Nebraska Creative District Program, which designates cultural and economic areas to foster innovation, community engagement, and economic growth through arts and culture. This initiative highlights the significance of arts in building vibrant communities, with multiple districts across the state, including Benson, Cathedral & Joslyn Castle District, and others. For more information, visit the Nebraska Creative District Program, which continues to play a crucial role in promoting arts and culture throughout Nebraska.
Extensive library programs.
The Norfolk Public Library in Nebraska offers extensive and diverse programs for all ages, including early literacy programs, book clubs, tech tutoring, and summer reading programs, which foster community engagement, education, and social connections. These programs are designed to be inclusive, often free, and open to the public, addressing various needs from education and employment to health and social connections. For more information on their offerings, visit the Norfolk Public Library website.
Numerous religious communities.
Nebraska is home to a diverse array of religious communities, including the Christian Church in Nebraska, the Roman Catholic Church, the Presbyterian Church (USA), the United Church of Christ, and the United Methodist Church, among others. These communities are actively engaged in spiritual practices, community service, and promoting hope and peace. Often collaborating across different faith traditions, they work together to address social and community issues, as exemplified by the activities of the Christian Church in Nebraska.
Active senior groups.
The Nebraska State Unit on Aging collaborates with organizations like GetSetUp to offer various active senior groups, providing numerous live online classes designed to keep seniors mentally, physically, and socially engaged. Additionally, in-person services are available through Area Agencies on Aging throughout the state. In Northeast Nebraska, the Northeast Nebraska Area Agency on Aging (NENAAA) facilitates older adults' independence with diverse programs and services, fostering social activities and community engagement across 22 counties. Meanwhile, ENCAP's Senior Longevity program in North Omaha features active senior groups such as SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) and Bingocize, which blend exercise, health education, and social interactions, specifically tailored for seniors aged 60 and above.
Youth engagement opportunities.
Youth Arise is a civic engagement program designed for middle-school students, emphasizing civic responsibility, social entrepreneurship, and leadership skills through a dynamic 5-day summer camp and various experiential learning opportunities. This program particularly targets socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, aiming to empower youth for future challenges. Complementing this is the work by the Project Everlast in Omaha, which offers diverse youth engagement activities such as skill enhancement, leadership training, and advocacy. It focuses on uplifting youth voices and addressing community needs through multiple monthly and annual events. Additionally, the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation contributes by maximizing the potential of Nebraska's children and families through community-centered initiatives, with a strong emphasis on strengthening family units and community bonds.
Local food cooperatives.
The Nebraska Food Cooperative is a member-owned organization that operates as an online, year-round farmers' market, connecting local consumers with producers from across Nebraska. It fosters a local food community, promotes sustainable agriculture, and provides a convenient way for shoppers to purchase fresh, locally produced food, supporting local economies and enhancing community health. For more information, visit their Nebraska Food Cooperative website.