metroMAGAZINE presents our OCT/NOV 2021 issue by metroMAGAZINE

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the spirit of omaha NANCY AND TOM OSBORNE, TEAMMATES MENTORING PROGRAM CO-FOUNDERS

TEAMMATES MENTORING CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF MANIFESTING TOM AND NANCY OSBORNE’S VISION

winning formula… lifelong impact CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

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SPIRITOFOMAHA.COM

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A MENTORING MILESTONE 2021

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in this ISSUE

connecting our community

cover story

WINNING FORMULA… LIFELONG IMPACT TeamMates: a Milestone in Mentoring

featured in this issue

WE ASK YOU:

“What has been most meaningful to you about being a TeamMates mentor or mentee?”

connecting to our potential

departments/columns

GAME CHANGERS • ASHLEY KUHN

we ask you...

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“What has been most meaningful • to you about being a teammates mentor or mentee?”

mMAGAZINE

SHARE OMAHA lifting up do-gooders

Mentoring is without question the best thing a person can do for their community. There is no better gift than your time and it truly can break the cycle of a tough situation for an individual and their family. Mentoring is truly the most costeffective social program our society has as a tool to lift up people who need it. I’ve seen the mentor and mentee personally gain greatly from a TeamMates match, but also a sibling, or even a parent improve their position in life because of that indirect observation. The effect of mentoring is exponential in these cases, both short-term and generational. I feel blessed, as has my family who have mentored, having gained so much

Haley Tom Armstrong Miller

Giovanni Jones

SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST  EXTERNAL AFFAIRS KIEWIT

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST UNMC

Our genuine friendship and delightful conversations have always given me a fresh perspective and meaning in investing in our future. I enjoy and highly value supporting our community’s youth. I am honored and appreciative my employer Kiewit sees not only the personal, but also the professional investment in our TeamMates partnership. I am grateful for their core value of stewardship ringing true in allowing employees to give back to our community.

RETIRED I was fortunate to have an informal mentoring experience when I was five. My “mentor” was a neighbor. During one summer, he read articles from National Geographic to me. He told me America is a good country, but you can also learn from people all over the world. So what did I do with his knowledge of the world that he shared with me? In my early 30’s I traveled to countries I Europe, Africa and Asia for a year and nine months; I learned to speak Arabic and Spanish; and after I got married, my wife and I hosted over 100 students from 21 foreign countries who came to UNO to learn English. So as a Teammates mentor my role is to be a good listener and to

Dolores Terwey VICE PRESIDENT U.S. BANK

I started this mentoring journey to make a positive difference in a young person’s life. This world can be very challenging and growing up is tough; our young people deserve to have someone in their life who supports them and is able to show them how important and special they are. However, in the process, it’s played an enormous role in my life as well. Over the years, my mentee has given me notes, cards and drawings and I’ve kept them all. I keep my favorite notes on my bulletin board at work to remind me how fortunate I am for the opportunity be her mentor. My mentee makes me want to be a better person so I can be a positive

Patty O’Connor ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR  TEACHER EDUCATION COLLEGE OF SAINT MARY

I have been a TeamMates+ (program for college students) mentor for one year. Being a mentor is meaningful because I get to be an “aunt” to a wonderful young lady while she is away from her family as she attends college. I enjoy being a part of her support system during this exciting time in her life. Mentoring is a fun, easy way to get to know a young person and help them celebrate their successes and navigate challenges. It requires little effort, yet it yields significant rewards.

Lisa Marie Kuehl PATIENT SCHEDULER, OPTION CARE HEALTH

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CEO & PRESIDENT WAITT COMPANY

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VANDENACK WEAVER LLC planning matters

My most meaningful takeaway from mentoring is the ability to provide hope. Life can be challenging. Between the daily obstacles that we face, the expectations that we or others have for us, the multitude of responsibilities that are placed on us, to the difficult losses that we must endure from time to time—the world can be completely overwhelming. To have someone in our corner who has experienced some of the things we have gone through, who can help with guidance and encouragement, and who can reassure that everything is going to be okay—that can make all the

John Schuele

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DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AIM INSTITUTE

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Tony Veland

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CEO, BISON INC.

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OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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The gift of time. Since becoming involved in 2012, my strengths (Empathy - Developer - Includer Woo - Adaptability) helped me as a mentor in TeamMates and TeamMates+. I also learned that time matters, even just a short time. My current mentees’ quotes sum up what the program has meant to them:

connecting to our insights

Addilyn Wilson MISS OMAHA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2022 I remember sitting in my 5th grade classroom, when I finally received the email that I was getting a mentor. I had been on the waiting list for over a year and could not wait to meet them. As I walked into our TeamMates Coordinator's office, I was so excited to be met with a smiling face: Mrs. Karen Troyer. I was thrilled to learn all about her, and we instantly had a connection. Over the past six years, Karen has been a huge support system for me— both academically and personally—preparing me for tests, pageants, and even attending my dance recitals. Even though my family already provides a strong support system, I don't know where

"Having someone there for important events in my life was special to me since I didn't have parents to do so. TeamMates provided me with a special person in my life." - First mentee

"When I first got asked if I wanted

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mMAGAZINE • A MILESTONE IN MENTORING 2021

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words FROM MY HEART

mMAGAZINE • LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

WITH gratitude “The most important thing we, as a society, can do is invest in the next generation.” ~WALTER SCOTT JR. We are blessed to live in a community with individuals who are leaders and visionaries and also incredibly generous. I have been in the publishing business for over 40 years and when I look around the Omaha metro and Lincoln areas, I have nothing but gratitude for the lives that have been changed because of those who choose to make a difference. Our cover story on TeamMates Mentoring Program celebrating 30 years is a celebration of the organization and also of founders Tom and Nancy Osborne. They had a vision and a desire to help youth through a mentoring program. TeamMates has made a difference in the lives of tens of thousands of youths, and the lives of those who choose to be mentors are also changed. I hope you enjoy the special section we put together to recognize the impact TeamMates has made over the past 30 years.

ANDREA L. HOIG ahoig@SpiritofOmaha.com

Another life well lived and loved, and one I am so grateful for, is Walter Scott Jr. Walter passed away on September 25th at the age of 90. Not only did Walter change the philanthropic landscape in the Omaha metro, he changed the actual landscape of our community through his vision and generosity. His accomplishments as an exceptional businessman are well known. I will speak to his philanthropic contributions, which are many—too many to include them all here. Walter’s love of and commitment to the Omaha metro community can be seen and felt all around the city. Walter was very committed to education. The Scott Campus at the University of Nebraska Omaha is a reflection of the investment made to ensure education is a priority for those desiring it. Supporting and contributing to youth development was another priority. Lastly, I will mention community—in particular, the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. The vision Walter had to take a very small city zoo and transform it into one of the best zoos in the world epitomizes the vision, the commitment and the magical insights of this man. Thank you, Walter, for BEING YOU and listening to the whispers when life was calling you to do and be more. Forever grateful, ANDEE

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mMAGAZINE • A MILESTONE IN MENTORING 2021

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teammates MENTORING CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF TOM AND NANCY OSBORNE’S VISION

TEAMMATES MENTEES HONORED AT MEMORIAL STADIUM FOR TEAMMATES' DAY WITH THE HUSKERS

winning formula 6

mMAGAZINE • A MENTORING MILESTONE 2021

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STORY BY KARA SCHWEISS • PHOTOS PROVIDED COURTESY OF tEAmmAtES mEntoRIng

• mMAGAZINE

TeamMates Mentoring Program has much to celebrate in 2021: its 30th year and more than 43,000 students served in 30 years across Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Wyoming and South Dakota. The mentoring program has seen a great deal of growth and success, but it began as a simple idea inspired by a television news story.

lifelong impact

PHOTO COURTESY OF NEBRASKA ATHLETICS

30 years of impact

for TeammaTes

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hands went up.”

In 1991 TeamMates Co-founder Nancy Osborne saw a 60 Minutes episode featuring investor Eugene Lang, who had been asked to speak at graduation exercises for the elementary school he had attended many years before.

“Those 22 players weekly mentored 22 students in Lincoln. Of the 22 mentees, 21 graduated on time and 18 of the 22 went on to four-year colleges,” Nancy Osborne said. “We were pleased with the results and could not have begun the program without the assistance from LPS and Barbara Hopkins, who attended to many of the details. Eventually we expanded beyond the football team mentors, across Nebraska and now in five states.”

“Upon arriving at the school, East Harlem Public School 121, Mr. Lang was surprised at the changes which had occurred, not just the aging of the school building, but the changes within the student body. He was struck by the fact that many of the students were apparently from impoverished The Program continues to grow. In fact, TeamMates Mentoring circumstances. He asked the principal how many of the Program staff and mentors have now impacted more than students would likely attend college and the principal told him 43,000 youth over the past 30 years. ‘maybe one’ would,” Nancy Osborne, a former teacher, recalled. “When confronted with the changes within the student body before him, Mr. Lang promised the students if they would stay out of trouble and graduate from high school, he would pay their way to college. Eventually 90 percent of those children graduated from high school and half went on to prestigious universities. “That really made an impression on me.” Nancy shared the concept with her husband, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Head Football Coach Dr. Tom Osborne. “She said, ‘Can we do something like that?’ And I said, ‘I don’t know that I have the financial wherewithal to put a whole elementary school through college, but I’ll see what I can do,’” Tom Osborne said. The Osbornes came up with the idea of asking NU football players to serve as mentors to boys attending middle school in the Lincoln public school district. “I thought this would be sort of a twofold arrangement. They would help the young people who were being mentored, but secondly, I thought it would be helpful to the players who were mentoring,” Tom Osborne said. “I thought giving their time to serve a young man would be helpful to them, and also I was concerned about so many kids who were growing up without a father figure in their life… I got in front of the team one day and said, ‘How many of you guys would be willing to a serve as a mentor to a seventh-or eighth-grade boy in Lincoln?’ And 22 8

On August 25, Tom Osborne announced the hiring of Chief Executive Officer DeMoine Adams, who began serving the TeamMates Program on September 7. Adams replaced Sarah Waldman, who led the TeamMates program as executive director for the past four years and helped grow the Program to approximately 10,000 matches in 180 communities across Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas and Wyoming. “DeMoine’s knowledge and experience in the community and with TeamMates is very instrumental as we look to expand our programs and services and increase our matches,” Tom Osborne said. “Our goals are to reach 12,000 matches, positively impact the world through mentoring, and become the gold standard of school-based mentoring programs.” No stranger to the TeamMates Program, Adams served TeamMates for eight of its 30 years, first as post-secondary education coordinator (2012-2016) and as program director (2016-2020). His charge is to “lead by serving the mentees, mentors and TeamMates Programs in all five states with a team that is committed to the mission and the core values of TeamMates,” Adams said. “TeamMates Mentoring will always be Tom and Nancy Osborne’s legacy and I look forward to keeping their legacy alive for many decades by helping youth reach their full potential through mentoring.” While Adams leads the TeamMates Mentoring program staff, Suzanne Hince serves as executive director of the TeamMates Foundation, which provides financial resources to the TeamMates Mentoring Program in support of its mission to positively impact the world through mentoring. mMAGAZINE • A MENTORING MILESTONE 2021

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celebrates 30 years

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ORIGINAL 22 MENTORS AND MENTEES, 1991

WE oftEn foRgEt tHAt tom’S original IntEnt WAS to buILd character In HIS pLAyERS tHRougH service to tHE CommunIty. I bELIEvE tHE pRogRAm ContInuES to bE JuSt AS muCH A benefit to mEntoRS AS to tHE mEntEES. And tHRougH tHE yEARS, ovER 40,000 children HAvE bEEn HELpEd. ~ tHE LAtE WALtER SCott, JR. (1931 – 2021) PHILANTHROPIST AND FORMER CEO, PETER KIEWIT SONS’ INC.

ORIGINAL MENTORS AND MENTEES AT TEAMMATES SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION, 2021

30 years of impact

for TeammaTes

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mAnIfEStIng

the osbornes’ vision

NANCY OSBORNE WITH MENTEE IZZY NICHOLS IN 2011

TOM OSBORNE WITH IZZY IN 2021

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HonoRIng tHE oSboRnES

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the mission of the teammates mentoring program is to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring.

tom oSboRnE’S SuCCESS And legacy CoACHIng tHE HuSKER footbALL tEAm IS unmAtCHEd. HoWEvER, WHAt HE And nancy HAvE nurtured WItH tEAmmAtES ovER tHE LASt 30 years WILL bE tHEIR bIggESt contribution to young pEopLE And to mAnKInd. AnotHER LEgACy unmAtCHEd And onE tHAt WILL endure. ~ CIndy And mogEnS bAy, TEAMMATES SUPPORTERS

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BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP TeamMates today is a school-based, one-to-one mentoring program serving boys and girls in 3rd through 12th grade. School districts participate in chapters across Nebraska and the surrounding states of Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas and Wyoming. Students can either self-nominate or they are nominated for the program by a caring adult in their life.

with homework to sharing a hobby to having a casual conversation. Each TeamMates chapter is funded locally by direct donations and fundraisers conducted throughout the year. The average cost to support a mentor/mentee match is 25 percent of the national average for organizations with a one-to-one model. The organization’s greatest need is mentors.

The focus of the mentoring relationship is for an adult volunteer to build a positive relationship with a student and help them reach their full potential. Mentors must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

Some potential mentors hesitate to become involved because they feel they are not “super-successful,” said Tony Veland, a TeamMates mentor and board member. However, “You only need a caring heart.”

Mentors commit to spending one hour each week with their students and by simply showing an interest in their life, they “Think about what you could have benefited from as a kid, and help identify the gifts and talents of young people and provide try to provide that for one individual who needs that. That them a sense of hope and vision for their life. Each mentoring would be my plea, to try to get more people to help our cause,” relationship is unique and the meetings can range from helping he said. “It doesn’t take as much time as you think it does.

OPS COORDINATOR DAN BARTEK AND MENTOR AND BOARD MEMBER TONY VELAND ACCEPT DONATION FROM NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART REP AND WESTSIDE MENTOR ANDY SHEFSKY

mMAGAZINE • A MENTORING MILESTONE 2021

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HonoRIng tHE oSboRnES

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the vision of the teammates mentoring program is to become the gold standard of school-based mentoring programs and serve 12,000 youth.

tEAmmAtES IS A ‘tRIpLE-A’ investment. It dELIvERS A huge pAyoff foR mEntoRS, mEntEES And ouR CommunIty. It EntERS ItS fourth dECAdE WItH great LEAdERSHIp And momEntum. ~ WARREn buffEtt, CHAIRMAN AND CEO, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

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mAnIfEStIng

the osbornes’ vision

But we do want consistency in our program and we want to make sure our kids are meeting with their mentors regularly; that is a huge thing that allows success.”

SOMEBODY WHO HELPED Veland, a former college and professional football player, is now the business development director for AIM Institute. He said his success was supported by informal mentors along the way. “There were a few individuals who I admired and who I watched and listened to and who had a great impact in my life,” he said. Veland’s Benson High School football coach, Lonnie Tapp, and his UNL football coach, Tom Osborne, were among them.

“They made it easy to connect to them and to trust them, because they showed they cared as much about the person as the football team. I probably respected them more than any other men who’d been around in my life except for my father,” Veland said. “If you pay attention to people who’ve been successful, a lot of that success stemmed from somebody who helped guide them.” Tom Osborne himself said he was positively influenced by several mentors over the years. “My dad went into World War II when I was four and he was gone for five years, over in Europe. I had an uncle who lived across the road and he kind of took me under his wing, he took me hunting and fishing and spent time with me and was very helpful,” he said.

OPS MENTOR JOE CORRITORE CELEBRATES 2018 GRADUATION WITH MENTEE SEAN

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HonoRIng tHE oSboRnES

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CongRAtuLAtIonS to tom And nAnCy oSboRnE on tHE 30-year anniversary of tEAmmAtES. tHEIR LEAdERSHIp, vISIon And dEdICAtIon In SuppoRt of young pEopLE tHRougH mentoring HAS mAdE An InCREdIbLE difference In tHE LIvES of So mAny. tHE legacy of tEAmmAtES WILL LIvE on tHRougH muLtIpLE gEnERAtIonS, And ItS impact WILL bE SubStAntIAL. ~ tREv ALbERtS, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA

THANK YOU

NANCY & TOM OSBORNE AND TEAMMATES FOR 30 YEARS OF MENTORSHIP AND SERVICE TO OUR YOUTH

GAIL & MIKE YANNEY LISA & BILL ROSKENS CONTINUED

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“Later on—when Woody Varner was a chancellor at the University of Nebraska—I was in my early 30s and a young football coach, and we won a lot of games. But when we didn’t beat Oklahoma, life got pretty hard. So, if we’d lose to Oklahoma, there would be a knock on the door and it would be Woody, or his wife Paula might come over. And I’d be sitting there with the shades drawn and the phone off the hook because I’d be getting the calls from all the bars and the people who were mad they’d lost a bet.”

Serving as a mentor through TeamMates has been “of the best things that’s ever happened in my life,” he added. However, it hasn’t always been easy. One young man Walker mentored years ago tended to miss many of the mentor/mentee meetings and neglect his schoolwork. “I wanted him to be successful more than he did, and that became a problem,” Walker recalled, adding that he questioned—after the youth reached adulthood and left the program—if he’d ever been a positive influence on him.

Osborne chuckled at the memory. He added, “And to have the chancellor of the university come by was somewhat reassuring, LISTEN AND SHARE and to have him on your side. Woody always had a good sense A few years later, the young man requested to meet with of humor and I’d count him among the mentors who’ve been Walker, surprising him with the announcement that he was on influential to me.” track to graduate from his college program. Denny Walker, founder of Jet Linx Aviation and emeritus “I asked him, ‘how did you do it?’ And he said, ‘I just started member of the TeamMates board of directors, helped the organization expand from Lincoln into Omaha. Like Osborne, doing the things you said to do,’” Walker said. “I went to his he said he benefited from being a mentee. graduation!” “I had key mentors in my life and without them I would have never, ever been able to do the things I’ve been able to do as a person. They give you guidance and support,” he said. “It wasn’t an organized mentoring program, but the people who helped me were my coaches, for one, and my father.”

Mark Bope, a sophomore at Millard North, was matched as a 4th-grader with Dr. Deepak Gangahar when he joined TeamMates. Gangahar, a retired surgeon, is chairman of TeamMates Board of Directors and still serves as Bope’s mentor (“We just call him ‘Doc,’” Bope said.)

OMAHA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS MENTOR KATHY SCHUBAUER WITH HER MENTEE AMAU AT 2018 GRADUATION CELEBRATION

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HonoRIng tHE oSboRnES

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TOM OSBORNE SHARES WOODY VARNER AS HIS MENTOR IN 2016 NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH CAMPAIGN

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mAnIfEStIng

the osbornes’ vision

NANCY OSBORNE, TOM OSBORNE, AND WARREN BUFFETT ENJOY TEAMMATES TAILGATE GALA

TOM OSBORNE WITH SUZANNE AND JIM PILLEN CELEBRATE TEAMMATES' DAY WITH THE HUSKERS 2021

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bECAuSE of tHE WoRLdWIdE pandemic, ouR WoRLd CHAngEd dRAmAtICALLy In 2020. mAny pARtS of SoCIEty’S vulnerabilities HAvE bEEn SEEn. WE need EACH otHER. ouR youth nEEd ALL of uS more tHEn WE CAn EvER CompREHEnd. It tAKES A vILLAgE to RAISE CHILdREn moRE todAy tHAn ever. gIvIng bACK by bEIng A tEAmmAtES mEntoR, dEvELopIng A relationship WItH A young pERSon IS no better WAy to bE A gIft tHAt keeps on giving. ~ JIm pILLEn, TEAMMATES FOUNDATION CHAIR

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“This has been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in my “Mentoring should not carry a stigma. It’s not for only life, meeting up with him every week at school and talking troubled kids, but for all kids,” he said. “Whatever they have about random stuff, really,” Bope said. “That has been lifein mind—good, bad or ugly—we are there to listen and share changing for me.” our experiences.” Bope’s interest in becoming a mechanical engineer connects Bope said he feels Gangahar enjoys the company and well to Gangahar’s experience in thoracic and cardiovascular conversation as much as he does. surgery¸ said his mother Deborah Gleich-Bope, a former school counselor and administrator. “They have a great relationship,” Gleich-Bope said. Her original hope when enrolling her sons in TeamMates was for “I think both Doc and Mark are inquisitive; they’re always Mark and his brother, 2021 Millard North graduate Nate, to asking questions about the world,” she said. “Doc’s focus is make a positive connection. the human body and Mark’s focus is machines.” “I thought it would be good for my boys. We are not from Gangahar said mentors benefit successful students like Bope, Nebraska, we have no family here whatsoever, and my as well as those who may be struggling. husband travels a lot for his job. It was always just me and the boys; there wasn’t really anyone else,” she said.

DR. DEEPAK GANGAHAR WITH MILLARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS MENTEE MARK BOPE

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honoring the osbornes

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manifesting

the osbornes’ vision

TOM OSBORNE, MENTEE ALEX WASHINGTON, MENTOR KAY SPIDLE, AND OSBORNE OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP DONOR JOHN SCHUELE CELEBRATE SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATION AT 2021 TEAMMATES' DAY WITH THE HUSKERS

A TRUSTED FRIEND “I thought getting them a mentor would be a way to get them another caring adult in their life who they could talk to and get advice from, who’s outside of just me and their dad.” Bope said he likes that Gangahar is not an authority figure or a peer. “There’s no fear in telling your mentor anything...the mentor is just there,” he said, adding that he especially appreciated his mentor’s support during one stressful period. “Doc helped me get through that whole situation,” he said. “The longer the meeting went on, the happier I felt that I was here.” Gangahar said his goal for Bope and his second mentee is simple: “Hopefully I will watch them blossom, succeed, and be happy.”

Osborne said serving as a TeamMates mentor was different than his role as a coach or father. “A mentor, as we see it, is simply someone who cares unconditionally. They’re not judgmental, they’re not a parent. Sometimes kids get used to being told what to do by a parent and sometimes—and I guess I would count myself in that number—parents aren’t really good about sitting and listening without judgment to their kids,” he said. “It’s having a safe, trusted friend in your life who shows up every week and listens, and maybe reflects, and maybe says once in a while, ‘Have you thought about this for handling this problem?’ “And, of course, there are lots of kids who have only one parent in their life and we have some who have no parents. So having somebody in your life who cares about you and loves you unconditionally is very powerful.

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TOM OSBORNE RECRUITS NEW MENTORS IN COLUMBUS, NE

SCOTT FROST, TOM OSBORNE AND WARREN BUFFETT

OMAHA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS MENTOR MARY SCHUELE CELEBRATES 2018 GRADUATION WITH MENTEE VICKY

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“We’re not asking the mentor to replace the parents; we don’t “It gives us a chance to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned want parents to feel threatened that someone’s trying to take over the years and use that information to instill into the life their role. But we do feel that having someone who is an of a kid. Sometimes I think we get so busy with just trying to advocate and who cares about you can provide a good move forward that we forget where we came from, and forget perspective about things simply because of more life that we were a kid at one point, and forget the experiences experience. When you’re 14 or 15, you haven’t been through that we’ve had that could truly benefit someone,” Veland said. lots of things that older people have already, and they don’t “Being able to use that to help someone and instill something have all the answers but at least they have some answers.” into the life of a kid—the feeling that you get from that is really worth its weight in gold.” Walker and Veland said mentors provide a unique objectivity and credibility. The match is beneficial to the mentor, too, Adams agreed. “(Mentees) need guidance. They need discipline developed in “Our mentors share with us that since they became mentors, their lives. They need to hear and listen to people who are they are more engaged with their work and their family. adults who’ve been down the road,” Walker said. “In most They have higher levels of hope for the future as a result of cases, once they trust you they’ll open up and tell you things their mentoring experience,” he said. that are going on.”

JOHN SCHARF, FARA AND DEMOINE ADAMS, AND BARB SCHARF ATTEND 2019 SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION

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TOM OSBORNE AT 2007 RETIREMENT CELEBRATION

KIEWIT'S BRING YOUR MENTEE TO WORK DAY

“When you’re matched with a kid, it creates a sense of “That safety record is something that’s, of course, very accountability in yourself as well. Because if you’re giving important to parents and the school administrators. That’s them advice, you really don’t want to be a hypocrite,” Veland one of the main reasons why we’re school-based, because said. “It keeps you on your toes and you make sure you’re when mentoring occurs in a school setting, there are always being the person you’re portraying to be.” other people around and the people are mentors for the right reason,” Osborne said.

STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE

The school-based model provides a safe environment for TeamMates matches to meet, and the online portal is secured and monitored. Mentors must pass a background and reference check and safety issues are regularly reviewed with mentors, mentees, building coordinators and program coordinators. Additionally, TeamMates provides a hotline 24/7 for anyone to report a safety concern.

The participating school districts benefit from higher graduation rates and other positive indicators among TeamMates students, Osborne said. “In about 85 percent of our matches attendance improves, and in about 75 percent of our matches discipline and less problems occur; and less classroom disruption, teen pregnancy, substance abuse and so on,” he said.

Potential mentors can visit the organization’s website at TeamMates.org or call the TeamMates office at (877) 531-8326 (TEAM). Potential mentees must be enrolled in a school sponsoring the program (every school district in the Omaha metro area participates) and can nominate themselves or be nominated by an adult.

Plus, TeamMates has a high standard of excellence in protecting participants.

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A parent or guardian must provide written permission for the student to participate in TeamMates as a mentee.

REACHING THEIR POTENTIAL The program works, Tom Osborne said. “Statistics prove that youth who are mentored and receive support and guidance from a caring adult show measurable improvement in academic achievement, attendance, selfesteem, and motivation to succeed,” Osborne said. “We annually collect data reported by each school where match meetings are held and the data confirms that mentoring has a significant impact on a student’s success as 95 percent of TeamMates senior mentees graduate; 91 percent of TeamMates mentees had higher levels of hope; and 85 percent of TeamMates mentees improved their attendance.” LONGTIME MENTOR DENNY WALKER AT TEAMMATES' ONE HOUR WALK

OPS MENTOR JUSTIN MILLER WITH MENTEE ANDRE

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bob and i send our thanks to tom and nancy for having the vision of teammates and for their efforts over 30 years to nurture and grow the organization. there is no question that teammates has made a lasting positive impact on the lives of an impressive number of young people throughout nebraska and the surrounding states.

HANSON AD

~ cynthia milligan, TEAMMATES FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBER W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION

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the best organizations aspire to greatness through the impact they have on the world and yet few achieve it like teammates has. from the vision set out 30 years ago, to the mission of inspiring youth to reach their full potential, to the well-orchestrated execution of matches across 180 communities, teammates has excelled at changing the lives of tens of thousands of kids while helping them to become productive, hopeful adults, citizens and humans one child at a time. in addition, the many adult mentors have also become better humans through the experience of mentoring and changing lives. congratulations, tom and nancy, on a dream

and vision realized! ~ Jane miller, PRESIDENT AND COO, GALLUP

NANCY AND TOM OSBORNE

“When you look at the graduation rates and you look at what (mentees) do as individuals, it’s off the chart,” Walker said. “It’s extremely effective, and the biggest thrill I get out of it is hearing the stories of either people I’ve recruited or who I meet who are mentors, or being at a seminar and someone wants to tell a story about their mentee; it’s very emotional. It brings tears to your eyes. I have never recruited anyone who doesn’t say that it’s one of the best hours of their week, when they go to see their mentee. It’s just amazing what it stands for and how simple it is: one hour a week at a school of your choice and at a time of day when you can be there.” The one most precious thing in life is time,” Gangahar said. “One hour a week that is all we are requesting people consider giving…TeamMates is building the future.”

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we ask you...

CEO & PRESIDENT WAITT COMPANY Mentoring is without question the best thing a person can do for their community. There is no better gift than your time and it truly can break the cycle of a tough situation for an individual and their family. Mentoring is truly the most costeffective social program our society has as a tool to lift up people who need it. I’ve seen the mentor and mentee personally gain greatly from a TeamMates match, but also a sibling, or even a parent improve their position in life because of that indirect observation. The effect of mentoring is exponential in these cases, both short-term and generational. I feel blessed, as has my family who have mentored, having gained so much from spending time with a young person and that weekly commitment. Mentees, and their families, react in special ways when they see the power of a person giving time as it goes beyond the gift of treasure.

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DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AIM INSTITUTE

John Schuele

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As a volunteer, you usually get as much—or more—out of your efforts than you put into it. This has been the case in my time being a TeamMates mentor. I began my current match three years ago with a sixth-grade student who had been in multiple foster homes for most of his life. While then in a stable environment, the pressure of a new school and a new family were taking their toll on his academics and relationships with teachers and students. While I offer no special training, I would like to think that just being there as a sounding board, and as someone who would listen and provide advice when appropriate, played a small role in the progress my mentee has made as he now enters high school. He has progressed from a failing student to an A-B student who shows respect for his teachers and others. I am thankful that the TeamMates program has given me the opportunity to spend time with my TeamMate, even if he beats me in “horse” when we play basketball during our visits.

Tony Veland

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CEO, BISON INC.

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Nick Cusick

Haley Tom Armstrong Miller SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST  EXTERNAL AFFAIRS KIEWIT Our genuine friendship and delightful conversations have always given me a fresh perspective and meaning in investing in our future. I enjoy and highly value supporting our community’s youth. I am honored and appreciative my employer Kiewit sees not only the personal, but also the professional investment in our TeamMates partnership. I am grateful for their core value of stewardship ringing true in allowing employees to give back to our community.

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RETIRED I was fortunate to have an informal mentoring experience when I was five. My “mentor” was a neighbor. During one summer, he read articles from National Geographic to me. He told me America is a good country, but you can also learn from people all over the world. So what did I do with his knowledge of the world that he shared with me? In my early 30s I traveled to countries in Europe, Africa and Asia for a year and nine months; I learned to speak Arabic and Spanish; and after I got married, my wife and I hosted over 100 students from 21 foreign countries who came to UNO to learn English. So as a TeamMates mentor my role is to be a good listener and to explore the gifts of my mentees. In doing so, I find I end up learning more about them and myself. I have learned about new music and games. I have learned about the challenges my mentees are facing. I share with them my travels and what I have learned. A win/win for both of us.

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“What has been most meaningful • to you about being a teammates mentor or mentee?”

ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR  TEACHER EDUCATION COLLEGE OF SAINT MARY I have been a TeamMates+ (program for college students) mentor for one year. Being a mentor is meaningful because I get to be an “aunt” to a wonderful young lady while she is away from her family as she attends college. I enjoy being a part of her support system during this exciting time in her life. Mentoring is a fun, easy way to get to know a young person and help them celebrate their successes and navigate challenges. It requires little effort, yet it yields significant rewards.

Lisa Marie Kuehl PATIENT SCHEDULER, OPTION CARE HEALTH The gift of time. Since becoming involved in 2012, my strengths (Empathy - Developer - Includer Woo - Adaptability) helped me as a mentor in TeamMates and TeamMates+. I also learned that time matters, even just a short time. My current mentees’ quotes sum up what the program has meant to them: "Having someone there for important events in my life was special to me since I didn't have parents to do so. TeamMates provided me with a special person in my life." - First mentee "When I first got asked if I wanted to join, I wasn't that into it, then I met Lisa. I felt comfortable talking to her. An opportunity to get opinions from not only my parents in my life." - Second mentee “Even though we didn’t have much time together, it was still fun talking to you. I’ll see you at the graduation party in June.” - Third mentee My heart’s full! To me, the program means hearing all voices. We listen, respond in kind, and are there in the moment. Time to give, time to share. This program is a gift; it doesn't cost much—just your time.

we ask you A MILESTONE IN MENTORING 2021

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VICE PRESIDENT U.S. BANK

Patty O’Connor

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There are many incredibly meaningful benefits about mentoring for TeamMates; I will try to do justice and highlight a few. As a TeamMates mentor, the opportunity to further the cycle of empowerment, support, engagement, purpose, accountability, encouragement and serving in my community is meaningful to me. I have been able to “walk it, like I talk it” and create spaces for everyone to show up as their authentic self, build trust and establish an authentic connection with my mentee. The transparency and respect shared is something that cannot be duplicated or artificially produced. Mentoring is real; our youth have real concerns, real dreams, and real traumas. They have a pulse on what is happening in the world and face decisions daily. When they trust and value us enough to seek our wisdom, we owe it to them to coach them through. I do not take the privilege lightly to speak into their life. One of the most awesome—because it’s all good—aspects about mentoring is the fact that you get to choose each other. It feels good to be chosen.

Dolores Terwey

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TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST UNMC

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Giovanni Jones

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game CHANGERS

• PRESENTED BY

From turning a conversation into an internship to using a troubled project as a springboard for creating a new business, Ashley Kuhn has found success in creating opportunity.

AS CO-FOUNDER WITH MARANDA ADAMS OF BLAIR FREEMAN, THE ONLY 100 PERCENT WOMANOWNED AND MINORITY OWNED CLASS A CONTRACTOR IN NEBRASKA, ASHLEY KUHN SAID SHE’S OCCASIONALLY ASSUMED TO BE AN ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM MEMBER RATHER THAN THE BOSS ON JOB SITESBUT ONLY AT FIRST GLANCE. Since the company was formed in 2018, Kuhn and her business partner have easily found their place in the community and every sector they connect to, including construction management, development, and real estate. “Honestly, I know everybody wants the story of how much we’ve struggled,” Kuhn said. “But it’s the opposite. We’ve been welcomed with open arms.”

“

I’VE BEEN IN THE same FIELD FOR THE BETTER PART OF 20 years. IT’S MY PASSION AND I love IT.

The person she is today The Omaha native attended Omaha Central High School before transferring to and graduating from Westside High School. “I don’t come from a wealthy family. I was raised in North Omaha, I’m a woman, I’m Black. All of those things people might think of as a disadvantage, but in my life they helped me grow into the person I am today,” she said.

~ Ashley Kuhn

”

ASHLEY KUHN

That person always knew what she wanted to be, Kuhn added. 36

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STORY BY KArA schweiss | PHOTOGRAPHY BY jim scholz

• mMAGAZINE

being the change PRESENTS

game changers

• ASHLEY KUHN

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game CHANGERS

• PRESENTED BY

being the change PRESIDENT AND CEO “I’ve only wanted to be in one career field and I’ve always wanted to be in it, since I was a kid: to be in real estate,” she said.

contacted her for assistance after Adams Kuhn said she brought her personal lowand her husband purchased a historic maintenance approach to the office. building in North Omaha for a new business. The restoration project was a “We always strive to bring authenticity to Kuhn studied economics at the University disaster, with costs exceeding 150 percent everything,” she said. “I think you can be of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she also ran of budget, the contractor going missing brilliant and still have fun at the same time. track. Then it was back to Omaha. mid-project and disappointing results. There’s this old-school mentality that in Adams asked Kuhn to help assemble the order to be taken seriously you have to “UNO (University of Nebraska Omaha) had a workers required to finish the project. wear a suit and you have to say the biggest real estate land-use economics degree field, Through the process, the two women words and have the longest resume… But so I switched after a couple of years to realized they had the skills and experience I really believe that you let everyone shine finish up in real estate land-use economics to fill a gap in the construction industry. in their respective areas and it’s going to and investment finance,” she said. make all of us better on a project.” “We started talking it through, that maybe At a networking event near the end of we could be the change,” Kuhn said. “That Everybody wins college, Kuhn connected with Arun problem project is where Blair Freeman Kuhn also believes “in making a difference Agarwal, now the CEO of real estate was born from.” development group White Lotus Group, in other peoples’ lives,” she said. “I and created an opportunity. genuinely want to see everybody win.” The company provides commercial services “He was going to take over some of his dad’s (construction services, owners A future goal is to facilitate first-generation representation and brokerage) and portfolio and start this development home ownership for families, especially in residential services (buying/selling and company. And jokingly, at the end of the construction), and has a team of real estate North Omaha and South Omaha. Currently, night—after we had been talking about she serves on the Greater Omaha Chamber how I was in school for it—he said, ‘Okay, agents—Blair Freeman Home—that Board of Directors, the Lozier Foundation’s I’ll see you on Monday.’” Kuhn recalled. “He operates under the brokerage house board of trustees, the board of directors for Nebraska Realty. was joking, but I actually showed up on The Union for Contemporary Art, and the Monday! And from that was born an Girls, Inc. board of trustees. internship, which then turned into 15 years “I’ve been in the same field for the better later when I was still there and was an EVP part of 20 years. It’s my passion and I love it,” and I was running the company with him.” Kuhn said, adding that she enjoys a great “I’m grateful that owning my own business gives me the time to commit my own business partnership with Adams. “We money and time to these organizations,” We could be the change pretty much manage everything she said. “What’s more important than the together… side by side, day by day. My Kuhn wanted to build something of her community? What’s more important than own. She created an opportunity again in partner is incredible and amazing and I 2018, when college friend Maranda Adams could not possibly do what I do without her.” giving everyone the tools to succeed?”

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ASHLEY KUHN

• mMAGAZINE

This special feature is sponsored by planitinc.

“

PEOPLE ALWAYS SAY THEY WANT TO open THE DOOR FOR THE PEOPLE THAT COME BEHIND THEM. I DON’T WANT TO open THE DOOR. I WANT TO take THE DOOR OFF ITS hinges… ~ Ashley Kuhn

Kuhn is the president of CREW Omaha, a local organization for women in the field of commercial real estate. She serves as both a formal mentor through Girls, Inc. and an informal mentor for many. “I always am an open book for guiding people for anything from getting into the industry to starting a company,” she said. “There’s room for everyone.”

”

“I married my childhood friend. He’s my biggest cheerleader and the person who keeps me motivated every day,” she said. “And I have two incredible parents. I got to see my parents’ work ethic, I got to see them grow in their careers from nothing. I got to see them struggle and succeed and build a legacy.“

PRESENTS

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”

one of the largest and most prestigious meeting planning firms in the midwest omaha magazine B2B winners since 2008

And now she’s building her own. That includes her two daughters, 18-yearold Jayla and 12-year-old Alivia, who are interested in following her into the business; Jayla has already joined Blair Freeman as an office assistant. Kuhn and her husband Kris also have an 8-year-old son, Kris. Kuhn also praises the family she comes from, Robert and Kris Freeman, who are retired from careers as an electrician and educator, respectively. (Yes, that’s a lot of people named Kris in one family, Kuhn said with a chuckle. “My mother-in-law, my husband, my mom, and my son all have the same name. When you yell, ‘Kris!’, everyone looks.”)

This special feature is sponsored by planitinc.

“People always say they want to open the door for the people that come behind them. I don’t want to open the door. I want to take the door off its hinges so people don’t have to continue to have to open it. I want to be that for somebody, to help them get from point A to point B more easily, or to help them find their passion or joy. What is the point of success if you’re not going to pass it along to the next person?” she said. “I believe the road is so short, but the footprint we leave and the impact we leave is forever.”

game changers

• ASHLEY KUHN

national, regional and local meetings and events nationally recognized as a leader in the meetings & event industry supporting our community through our nonprofit work and the boards/organizations we are members of planitinc. has been providing event and meeting management solutions for over twenty years. we are a client-centric firm that provides unmatched service and professionalism. while proudly located in the midwest, our crazy-talented event team works from NEW YORK to LA and everywhere in between.

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Marjorie M. Maas, SHARE Omaha executive director

lifting up do-gooders

• SHARE OMAHA

STEPPING OUT: volunteer TO enhance THE METRO & YOUR CAREER Who is a do-gooder? Either you are one, or you know a few. SHARE Omaha defines do-gooders as those who see a need and do good for others or the community; those who raise their hands to help when a crisis or challenge arises around them; and those who regularly prioritize this good work, even in the light of personal sacrifice. Insights into service Recently the locally-based organization ICAN hosted its annual Women’s Leadership Conference with the theme “In Sight: Step Up, Stand Out, Stand Together.” A follow-up panel discussion offered to conference attendees focused on volunteering as a manner for answering the theme’s call. ICAN invited SHARE Omaha to sculpt and moderate this panel of community leaders across the spectrum of career stages and roles, from emerging leaders to community trustees and senior executives. Panelists included Lindsay Borgeson, Senior Vice President of Deposit Services at Core Bank; Gail Graeve, Vice President of Social Impact at Mutual of Omaha; Rodrigo López, Chairman at AmeriSphere Companies; and Lorena Zamarripa, Instructional Designer and Trainer at LinkedIn. How they stepped up Panelists revealed personal and professional stories, all telling how volunteerism had enhanced their lives in multifaceted ways. For instance, Graeve relayed how her early career volunteering with Junior League of Omaha yielded a recommendation for a new role professionally because of the skills and talents she exhibited while helping and marketing a local cause. Her advice regarding the value of service to employees was clear: “I think there are so many opportunities for any one to get involved in the community… (Doing so) helps employees grow and develop and (volunteerism) helps them engage… When our community is strong, we all can fly in any role. You can reach your potential through community service. Take some risks and take some chances.” Zamarripa let the audience know how early service experience through her alma mater allowed her the realization that knowledge and experience are everpresent, especially when serving alongside someone else. “Sometimes going into volunteering, you go in as a helper with all the answers. (My experience) showed me sometimes you can go as a learner and listen to other people’s stories.” She also showed how skill-specific service opportunities shaped her career trajectory to her present employer and empowered her to ask for what she needed out of the role and time while assisting Latino Center of the Midlands as a computer literacy instructor. “We do well when we do good for others and our communities.” Lopez opened his portion of the panel with that sage advice. He noted among other experiences, a decade of volunteer board service led to a 15-month tenure as interim President and CEO of Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. He said this was the one of the most “complex, challenging but rewarding opportunities that I experienced for my entire professional career.” He lives by the timeless concept of servant leadership. He credits boards and committees in helping develop traits that makes better servant-leaders, skills like selfawareness, stewardship, motivation and persuasion, listening, empathy acting with humility, a culture of trust, mentoring and foresight. 40

How you can stand out Having spotted a board position opening on SHAREomaha.org, Borgeson applied online to Heartland Workforce Solutions, quickly thereafter met with the executive director, and eventually gained marjorie m. maas board of directors membership. She credits the ease of the search to SHARE Omaha, but she also pointed to a key learning from the ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference: rounding up and not underestimating your talents and abilities. Borgeson said, “No matter your experience, no matter your background, you are of value to these organizations. Give your time. Show up. Ask questions… Bring passion and creativity, and you’ll go a long way.” Take Borgeson’s lead and example. Find a match for your community interests on SHAREomaha.org. It provides the robust nonprofit database of our community, those organizations seeking support from across our metro area. The platform shows 620-plus nonprofits, all with easy ways to connect and start relationships to further the work needed. Advice for emerging leaders To close the panel, each participant gave parting words to inspire emerging leaders and those considering volunteerism. Lopez said, “You always get more than you what you give when you volunteer.” Borgeson followed up with “Be intentional about where you give your time, because then you’ll bring your best self and your passion. Go in thoughtful and excited about the organization… coming from a place of truly wanting to give back.” Zamarripa quoted a Women’s Leadership Conference speaker, Shadé Zahrai, who said, “Our experiences seemingly unrelated can sometimes be a great combination.” She also noted that, likewise, our own stories should be used to help others professionally and personally. Graeve closed out the time with final thoughts, “Don’t wait to be asked. It’s okay to step outside of your comfort zone and be assertive and step right in and say, ‘I’m here’ and ‘How can I help?’” She continued, “Think about building your network… Community is about connections, and it’s about the opportunity we all have to learn from each other. Community service gives all of us the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds, perspectives we otherwise wouldn’t get to know.” Who are your do-gooders? We bet you can think of leaders who have stepped up when a need presented itself. Tell us! Shoot an email to info@SHAREomaha.org or find us on social media. SHARE Omaha exists to be a conduit between nonprofit needs and the public doing good. The best ways, we think, to spur that action is to inspire through telling stories of do-gooder actions and emphasizing that tiny acts of goodness add up to a healthy and engaged community. Find your fit for volunteering and supporting the causes you care about at SHAREomaha.org.

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metroMAGAZINE inspires – SHARE Omaha connects. There are thousands of ways to do good for our neighbors. At SHAREomaha.org, you can 昀nd your 昀t and connect passion to ac琀on. Choose who to support and where to donate your 琀me.

HEART MINISTRY CENTER

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Emily Nguyen, Director of Research and Evaluation

omaha giving

• OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

THE role OF data IN PHILANTHROPY Earlier this year, the Omaha Community Foundation launched a new, comprehensive platform to house our data indicator project, The Landscape. By combining comprehensive, publicly available data with insight and knowledge from nonproﬁts and residents, The Landscape is a community resource, originally launched in 2016, that can help set priorities, identify community gaps, drive change, and inform decision-making on investments. It also encourages shared learning and understanding across the community. From our research and listening work in The Landscape, we know someone’s experience living in the Omaha metro can vary greatly depending on their identity and zip code. Systemic racism has perpetuated many of the inequities we see today in housing, health, workforce, and other areas of community life. If we want to solve issues like this, we must ﬁrst identify the areas where the greatest disparities exist. Breaking down the data—by geography, race/ethnicity, and income—is key to understanding what is happening and what action our community needs. Data as a foundation for understanding: Just like a foundation for a house, data must be solid and come from a credible source. When we’re gathering information for The Landscape, we turn to sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Community Health Needs Assessment, among more than 20 others. All the data sources are listed and hyperlinked at the bottom of each webpage if anyone wants to dig in deeper. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive set of data that is transparent and easily accessible. We also go one step further. Data—while a good foundation—is not the whole house. Data without context can be dangerous. When we don’t have a full scope of understanding, we start to make up stories, we make assumptions and assign blame. Listening to people and how they experience living, working, and being with their families in our community is just as important as the numbers.

That is why we have conducted listening work. We want to add context to what we are seeing in the data. Philanthropy doesn’t have all the answers. People living in our community do. They are the experts of their lives. Data can point us in a direction, but then we must listen to understand. Looking to our community partners: Whether they are offering credible data sources or providing additional context, nonprofits are critical in this emily nguyen journey of understanding. They are also often on the front lines of addressing the issues raised through data and listening. What they know and they’re experiencing might inform increased support in a particular area or legislation. Our updated site offers an enhanced user-experience with interactive graphs, more inclusive data in 38 indicators, and new opportunities to find in-depth research within each of the policy areas. In addition, data points in seven of the eight focus areas have been updated. Some of our newest findings include: The rates of homelessness in our community have almost doubled between 2015 and 2019. The median wage gap has grown 18% between people who are white and people of color since 2015. Local voter turnout continues to rise and recent turnout rates have increased by over 24%, putting us above the national average. Want to dig in and learn more? Visit omahafoundation.org/research, then reach out to us at giving@omahafoundation.org. We’d be happy to share more with you about nonprofits working in any of the eight areas featured in The Landscape.

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Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness. MARY E. VANDENACK She is Yoga Alliance RYT-200, Power Pilates certified and ACE certified and has earned a Specialization in Foundation of Positive Psychology from University of Pennsylvania.

kindness Kindness involves sincere friendliness, generosity, warmth, concern and consideration. Bullying is unwanted aggressive behavior that harms you. Kindness matters. Setting boundaries against bullying behavior also matters. Being aware of the difference is extremely important, as bullying sometimes comes in the form of feigned kindness. It is kind to reach out to someone who appears to be struggling. Ask them if they are okay and if there is anything you can do. A friend once taught me that we tend not to offer support to people that we see as strong, but the strong are those who often need someone to reach out to them in a kind loving way. I have a friend who is a very strong person. She was recently going through a really difficult challenge. She shared it with me after the fact. I asked, “Oh, Friend, why didn’t you let me know you were going through that? I would have showed up for you.” She said, “I didn’t want you to see me as weak!”

someone the truth in a kind and gentle way when doing so is helpful to the other person. I was once in a life period when I was having difficulty with my son. A friend very kindly and gently pointed out that my tone changed whenever I talked to my son. There was no judgment, no assumption and no conclusion about my behavior in the comment—just a comment for me to consider. I realized that was my defense mechanism and found another way to protect myself so that I could be kinder to my son in our conversations. It made a big difference in my relationship with my son. The key was the very kind and nonjudgmental way that my friend shared with me what they saw.

It is bullying to call someone up and tell them that they are having a problem and they need help, especially if there has been no personal observation of what is going on in their life. A few months ago, I was sad because a relationship with someone I loved was ending. An acquaintance called me up and launched into a hurtful diatribe, making my sadness into some massive life crisis in HER mind. I later confronted her about the inappropriateness of her phone call. Rather than apologizing, she defended it as being kind and compassionate. Lybi Ma, executive editor of Psychology Today, speaks of the importance of helping someone carry a heavy load. This is accomplished by honest compliments, encouragement, sharing food, and refusing to gossip. Kindness does involve telling

Ma suggests that having conversations requires that you are in a trusted relationship with a person. The person who decided to call me and turn my sadness into a life crisis had no reason to think she was in a trusted relationship with me. She was just bullying. Kindness is being willing to fully celebrate the successes of others. A kind (but not hurtful person) might feel momentarily jealous of a friend’s accomplishment but will put that aside and genuinely celebrate the success of another and perhaps even be inspired. A bully will see the person as a threat and will seek to undermine them. To keep yourself safe and avoid vulnerability, learn to distinguish between those who are truly kind and supportive of you. To build relationships, learn the art of true kindness.

ENVISION YOUR FUTURE: PREVENT DISEASE DISCOVER HEALTH! YOU DESERVE A BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILE! Dr. Stephanie Vondrak • Dr. Ashley Rainbolt Vondrak Dental (402) 289-2313 info@drvondrak.com

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planning matters

• WITH VW LAW

the 721: upreit EXCHANGE AND ESTATE PLANNING

Readers of metroMAGAZINE may have heard of a 1031 exchange, through which real property owners can defer payment of capital gains tax arising from the sale of said property, by investing the sale proceeds into real property of 1 like kind and 2 equal or greater value with 3 the assistance of a qualified intermediary. 1031 exchanges can be excellent tools for real property investors; however, not everyone wants to hold real property indefinitely, and not everyone’s heirs want real property. An alternative, and a potentially valuable tool for estate planning, is the 721 exchange, sometimes called an UPREIT exchange. Section 721 of the Internal Revenue Code permits owners of many different kinds of property, including real estate, to contribute that property to a partnership in exchange for interests in that partnership. When it comes to real estate, there are many Real Estate Investment Trusts REITs which acquire own, and manage diverse portfolios of real estate, via an operating partnership structure socalled Umbrella Partnership Real Estate Investment Truststhence “UPREIT”. So,

property owners can make use of Section 721 to exchange their real estate for operating partnership units OP units in these REITS. OP units generally have economic rights identical to rights of shares of the REIT, and can be converted into shares after a certain amount of time. elena whidden Thus, the 721 exchange becomes a solid exit strategy, so to speak, for owners of real property who do not want to hold that property, and who would recognize a considerable taxable gain by selling. OP units can be transferred to beneficiaries taxfree. When the owner passes away, the beneficiary receiving the units or shares gets a steppedup basis to current market value for taxation purposes, eliminating the gain between present value and the adjusted basis. Beneficiaries who receive OP units can convert them to REIT shares or cash without triggering capital gains tax upon receipt. OP units also generate passive income in the form of dividends, so some beneficiaries may appreciate this and want to hold onto them dividends from the OP units are considered personal income and are taxed based on state of residence. OP units can oftentimes be used as collateral for loans. There are many reasons why individuals may not want to hold real property: it may be investment property or commercial property they own but no longer have the energy to manage, or they may already live in a retirement community or with a relative and no longer need their residence. A 721 transaction is also an excellent option if an individual knows their heirs might not agree on whether or how to sell real property; passing them a number of units in a REIT can divide up the property fairly and taxeffectively. The units are more liquid than the actual real property, and can be sold or exchanged, or held to generate income. REITs can be very profitable, and allow an individual access to a diverse real estate portfolio they may not be able to access normally. There are some downsides to 721 exchanges, the most obvious being that you will not own your property anymore. Furthermore, although some REITs do contain a mix of residential and commercial or industrial property, many do not want to buy residences. Thus, to obtain OP units, one might have to first engage in a 1031 exchange to obtain a fractional ownership in the type of commercial or industrial property that REITs do want, and then later swap this fractional interest for OP units through a 721 transaction. Finally, an individual considering a 721 exchange will have to do their research on any REIT with which they seek to engage, to determine the partnership’s rules with respect to how its shares are to be treated, how profitable it is, what it holds, and how it acquires and manages holdings.

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M y 4 re C S T T T P P S Hard C e

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your money

• SWARTZBAUGHFARBER & ASSOCIATES, INC.

impact!

• YOUR DENTAL HEALTH

THE ART OF giving AND

THE gratitude ripple EFFECT

receiving deana bennett

stephanie vondrak d.d.s.

the gift that keeps on giving, right? COVID: As a business owner and consumer, I am equally frustrated by the backlash of changes

Employee Experience Index, a report from IBM’s Smarter THE Workforce Institute and software company Workhuman, showed a large employee experience rating gap between employees that received recognition for their performance (83%) and those who did not (38%). Additionally, research shows that the praise does not have to come from a boss alone; peer-to-peer recognition packs just as much power! Recognition from colleagues may even be more meaningful since this is who you partner with most often during office hours. What may not be as obvious is that the giver also benefits from this positive transaction. For example, giving gratitude tends to lead to improved relationships. It not only improves the connection with a coworker during good times, it also opens doors for either party to relay concerns during more difficult situations down the road and deal with adversity. The benefits have a ripple effect. Colleagues are more likely to partner with individuals when they already have a relationship with that person. Additionally, noticing the good in others leads to more positive feelings about the world around you. Recognizing others increases your connection with colleagues and encourages a feedback culture at work led by your example. There are times when we hesitate from giving thanks to others. Maybe you are concerned the receiver will be embarrassed or you talk yourself out of sharing because you question how much your opinion matters. Professor Robert Emmons, author of The Psychology of Gratitude, summed up these preconceived notions succinctly: “Studies show that we’re likely to undervalue gratitude, underestimate its positive effect on others, and overestimate the awkwardness the recipients would feel.” So, stop overthinking and share your gratitude with your colleagues so you can both increase your happiness at work. Make gratitude a way of life rather than a special occasion. For more information, please contact your trusted advisor at Swartzbaugh-Farber – ‘Client Centered – Client Advocates™. Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Swartzbaugh-Farber & Associates, Inc. is independently owned and operated.

to our employment world. From restaurants unable to staff their dining rooms to shipping dates as nothing more than an “educated guess,” COVID continues to test our patience and fortitude. What I find interesting is how relentless these changes have been to our conventional work culture. In March 2020, it was difficult to imagine a world where physical presence in the workplace came to a halt. The population felt a loss for the inability to go to their desks, to communicate one-on-one, to travel for business and essentially to work like “normal.”The pendulum swung so fast from our usual work routine to “the pause button” to not working to what we have now. The question is, what do we have now? From my perspective, our work current culture is confused and uncertain. America is experiencing an identity crisis of sorts. Many individuals want things to go back to how they used to be, and many don’t. Let’s be honest, a whole bunch of people are content with the idea of stimulus money to foot the bills and couch time to fill their days. The simple fact is that this mindset cannot go on forever. As a dentist and business owner, I struggle to provide the level of care and commitment I value in this on again-off again world. Like many other physicians and dentists, I believe and will always believe in putting individualized patient needs before my own to help those I care for reach a higher level of health. The dilemma presents itself when consistency and teamwork are needed to achieve such goals, when logical thinking and internal motivation are essential—all fundamental values once coincident with our culture and the American dream. This brings me to the theme of this column: the art of giving and the patience of receiving. A mentor of mine once introduced me to the idea that our work life should be a balance between work - play, and spiritual wellness - love; and that these cornerstones in our life could be viewed graphically like a cross, supporting each other for balance and stability. I loved this concept and have never forgotten the wisdom of the teaching. The dayto-day execution of this philosophy, however, is not so easy. To fully believe in this balance requires letting go. It requires trust and faith that the goodwill and intentions I offer to the world will be realized in time. It is not a wish or a prayer but a test of patience to continue to prepare and create a practice ready to receive such rewards. To be mindful that the individuals wanting and valuing the same things that I do are out there preparing, too. Remembering my passion but not working so hard that my cross tips or shifts out of balance, letting my life slip by. Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under Heaven.”The COVID season is long, and it is frustrating. There has been controversy and divide amongst many. My hope is that a modified cross can emerge, a balance between personal desire/opinion - greater good/working for the community, and spiritual health - fulfillment and love—a modified COVID cross empowering stability in our employment environment, reviving the work ethic of our American culture, and unity among Americans that our future will be better when we find a way to care for one another. Dr. Stephanie Vondrak is board certified by the American Academy of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine to treat patients suffering from sleep apnea with sleep apnea appliances.

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event galleries | charity support

updated local event info LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2021!

Are you hosting a virtual or on-location event this fall/winter? Go to SpiritofOmaha.com & CONNECT to the Greater Omaha community! Create a FREE Account to promote & update your event information 365/24/7!

S FROM ON SERIES. MODEL VIRTUAL DISCUSSI AG AN EMENT DEVELOP MODEL M

keeping you connected in 2021! 47

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Photos courtesy Royce Studio

THE ESSENTIAL

Element

Make-A-Wish Nebraska Blue Jean Ball: Hope is Essential

When: August 14, 2021 Where: Hilton Downtown Omaha BRIAN AND LISA KETCHAM, EVENT CHAIR CANDI KIRKWOOD, BRIGETTE YOUNG, RANDY AND CANDACE WOODS

Why: Event attendees were asked to give local wish kids hope for a better tomorrow by donating and bidding on auction items. Make-A-Wish Nebraska also shared some amazing wish stories throughout the night. Title Sponsor: Lindsay Corporation Attendance: 450 Amount Raised: $430,000

THE MAKE-A-WISH NEBRASKA OMAHA FRIENDS COUNCIL

EMCEE AND WISH ALUMNUS JEREMY PAYNE WITH SARAH FILI, KETV

BLUE JEAN BALL TITLE SPONSOR, LINDSAY CORPORATION

Mission: Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. About: Make-A-Wish® creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. A wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness. Since our inception, Make-A-Wish Nebraska has granted more than 2,900 wishes across the state. On average, we grant between 115120 wishes per year. For more information: www.wish.org/nebraska

WISH PARENTS JEREMY AND JESSICA

BLUE JEAN BALL DINNER SPONSOR, HDR

On August 14, Make-A-Wish Nebraska held its annual Blue Jean Ball gala. This year’s Blue Jean Ball, presented by Lindsay Corporation, was held at the Hilton Downtown Omaha and the theme this year was Hope is Essential. Honorary Chairs were Tim and Mary Crockett and the evening was emceed by Sarah Fili, Anchor/Reporter at KETV Newswatch 7; and Jeremy Payne, wish alumni and current Make-A-Wish Nebraska Board of Directors member. Thanks to all the generous sponsors and Blue Jean Ball attendees, this event broke a record and raised over $430,000, which will be used to grant the wishes of children battling critical illnesses right here in Nebraska!

BLUE JEAN BALL AUCTION SPONSOR, MCGILL RESTORATION

BLUE JEAN BALL EMCEE AND WISH ALUMNI, JEREMY PAYNE

metroMAGAZINE • A MILESTONE IN MENTORING 2021

CAPTIONS

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Photos courtesy Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation

WINED AND

Wowed

Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation

Wine Women & Shoes 2021

BREANNA WHITE AND BRITTANY THOMAS

EVENT CHAIRS: STACY SCHIEBER, EMILY DUGGER, MICAYLA LEE, ERIN KAISER

When: August 6, 2021 Where: Champions Run Why: Benefiting the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Attendance: Over 300 attendees Amount Raised: More than $260,000 raised Mission: To improve the life of every child.

CAPTIONS SHOE GUYS WITH THE KING OF SOLE AJ ANDERSON & GINA MELTON

l SHOE GUYS: SCOTT SUMMERS, MATT MOORE, GABE WINTER, TOM KING, CHASE LONGO, PAT BUCKLEY, TOM BECKER, JOHN DIAMANTIS

WWS COMMITTEE MEMBERS: LAUREN MCDONNELL, ELLIE CLINCH & KATIE MCDONNELL

About: Children’s Hospital & Medical Center is the only full-service, pediatric health care center in Nebraska, providing expertise in more than 50 pediatric specialty services to children across a five-state region and beyond. Children’s is home to Nebraska’s only Level IV regional Newborn Intensive Care Unit and the state’s only Level II Pediatric Trauma Center. A regional heart center, it also offers expertise in pediatric heart transplantation. Children’s is recognized as a 2021-22 Best Children’s Hospital by U.S. News & World Report in four pediatric specialties: cardiology & heart surgery, gastroenterology & GI surgery, pulmonology & lung surgery and urology. For more information: ChildrensOmaha.org

ENTER YOUR 2021-2022 CHARITY EVENTS NOW! CAPTIONS BRIDGET CORNELL, AMANDA SNYDER, LAURA ESSAY, JESSICA FEILMEIER, KRISTIN CARBULLIDO, HOLLY MATTOX, SARAH FREELAND

HONORARY CHAIRS: LAUREN (LUBECK) CORBY, MORGAN (LUBECK) RENTER AND KIM LUBECK

Events can be included in: CAPTIONS • weeklyCONNECTOR e-newsletter, • print and digital editions of metroMAGAZINE • Fall edition of The Giving Guide & Event Book • SpiritofOmaha.com

PHOTO BLOCKS BENEATH THE B2WINS THIS ENTERTAINMENT TY AD BYBOX

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CAPTIONS

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Photos courtesy Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

BREWING UP

Habitats

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Brew Haha

When: September 9, 2021 CAPTIONS

POWER PARTNERS ANGEL STARKS AND ANAYELI MARTINEZ REAL WITH EVENT CHAIR MELISSA STEFFES

Where: Sterling Ridge Why: Support of Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Sponsors: Title Sponsor: Buildertrend; Presenting Sponsor: Lockwood Development Attendance: 1,600 Amount Raised: $450,000

TINY HOUSE

VIP TENT

Event Summary: Brew Haha gives attendees the opportunity to enjoy delicious tastings from the area’s best breweries and restaurants in a fun, relaxing atmosphere while supporting Habitat for Humanity of Omaha. Mission: Habitat for Humanity builds strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.

KIEWIT COMPANIES “STUD” SIGNING CREW

KEG CREEK BREWING

About: Habitat for Humanity of Omaha’s vision is a world where everyone has a safe and healthy place to live. Our mission is to build strength, stability, and selfreliance through shelter. We achieve this mission by constructing and renovating homes, repairing owneroccupied homes, demolishing blighted structures, providing financial counseling and estate planning services, advocating for better laws and systems, and more. The families with whom we partner access resources and learn skills to be successful homeowners, For more information: (402) 457-5657, www.habitatomaha.org

CAPTIONS

PHOTO BLOCKS BENEATH CAPTIONS KATHY WELLS, HABITAT OMAHA WITH EVENT CO-CHAIRS, MEGAN LONGO AND BOX EMILIE WELLS THIS TY AD

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CAPTIONS

THE SHENANIGANS

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Photos courtesy Debra S. Kaplan

HOLING IT FOR

Healing

Methodist VIP/ Methodist Hospital Fdtn.

14th Annual Methodist Golf Classic JUSTIN O’SHEA, RUDY KOTULA, BYRON HAMILTON, BRIAN MORELAND

ANGIE AND CHRIS DIERKS WITH MELODEE AND TOMMIE THOMPSON

When: August 17, 2021 Where: Tiburon Golf Club Why: Annual Golf Tournament fundraiser to support an area of need for Methodist Hospital/Methodist Women's Hospital.

STAN CLANTON, MARY PETERSEN, RYAN FLYNN, JOE WURT

HILKE AND JOHN MEYER WITH MIKE MCDERMOTT AND MELISSA OKERLUND

Sponsors: Partner Sponsor: Methodist Medical Staff; Leader Sponsors: American National Bank, Dr. Rudolf & Suzanne Kotula, Marco, Pinnacle Bank, Sirius/Cisco, Tommie & Melodee Thompson; Dinner Sponsor: Justin Bostic, Ameriprise Financial; Lunch Sponsor: Rotella’s Italian Bakery; Beverage Cart Sponsor: Electric Company of Omaha; Golf Cart Sponsor: Holland Basham Architects; Scorecard Sponsor: Midwest GI; Ball Drop Sponsor: Apollo Med Flight; 19th Hole Margarita Sponsor: Methodist Surgery West; Beer Keg Sponsor: Radiologic Center, Inc. Event Planner: Melodee Thompson, Golf Classic Chair

VOLUNTEERS KELINA MOORE AND MIKALA PFEIFER WATCH FOR A POSSIBLE HOLE IN ONE

VOLUNTEERS PATTI PRYOR AND CONNIE BREUNING STAFF THE RAFFLE TABLE

Attendance: 272 Golfers Amount Raised: Over $140,000 in net proceeds

DAVE BROWN, JENNY GREEN, JOSEPH “SMITTY” SMITH, KATIE HONZ

MATT OESTMANN AND JIM JANICKI LEAD THE AFTERNOON SHOTGUN START

STEVE BELLOCK, SCOTT NIELSEN, ROY MEADOWS, DAN LARKIN

PHOTO BLOCKS RYANBENEATH KIRSHENBAUM, JOHN HOLDENRIED, SHARITY FLOWERS, KLOECKNER THIS ADANDYBOX

Event Summary: The 14th Annual Methodist Golf Classic, presented by the Methodist Volunteers In Partnership, a support group of Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital, was held on August 17 at Tiburon Golf Club. Over 65 volunteers, 272 golfers in morning and afternoon flights, and numerous sponsors came together to support this fundraiser CAPTIONS for the Methodist Hospital Acute Rehabilitation Center’s therapy gym. This year marked a record number of participants, sponsors, and funds raised! Mission: Methodist Hospital Foundation Mission: To improve the quality of life by supporting excellence in health care and health care education provided by Methodist Health System. For more information: (402) 354-4522, www.methodisthospitalfoundation.orgCAPTIONS

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Photos courtesy QLI

GOING FOR THE

Green

QLI 17th Annual QLI Golf Challenge

When: August 2, 2021 Where: The Players Club at Deer Creek BEN RICHESON, SEAN KRUEGER, MEGAN HATCH, EDDIE GARLICH

PAIGE RITTER, TARA ARNOLD, BRITTANY RETZLAFF, ALISON JOHNSON

Why: Raise funds for QLI's Life Path Services program Attendance: 100 golfers Amount Raised: $60,000 Event Summary: In true QLI fashion, the creativity of QLI's Golf Challenge made for a fun day on the links. Foursomes spent the day in a friendly competition pairing traditional golf skills with old-school backyard games in a Backyard Olympics theme, all while supporting QLI's innovative Life Path Services program.

ELLIE CLINCH, LAUREN MCDONNELL, JESSICA SUMMERS, MORGAN GOETHEL

GERRAD NATION, SABRINA NATION, DEENA HANNUM, JOSH HANNUM

For more information: (402) 573-3700, www.teamQLI.com

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Photos courtesy Kids Can Community Center

BREAKING NEW

Ground

Kids Can Community Center

Groundbreaking Ceremony

When: August 10, 2021 Where: 48th and Q Streets CAPTIONS

CAPTIONS

Why: To break ground on the construction site of a new Kids Can Community Center Attendance: 100 Kids Can Community Center hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, August 10 at 10 a.m. for its new building on 48th and Q Streets in Omaha. The ceremony included comments from Kids Can CEO Robert Patterson; Omaha Public Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Logan and former board member Avi Atholi. Kids Can has served Omaha residents since 1908 and has been housed in its current building at 49th and Q Streets since 1964.

CAPTIONS

For more information: (402) 731-6988, www.kidscan.org

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Photos courtesy Mike Buckley and Debra S. Kaplan

STANDING

Together ICAN; Institute for Career Advancement Needs IN SIGHT CAPTIONS

CAPTIONS

When: August 11, 2021 Where: Hybrid: Virtual and CHI Health Center Omaha

CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER TIFFANY DUFU “THE FUTURE OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP”

CAPTIONS

ICAN PRESIDENT & CEO SUSAN HENRICKS

INCOMING ICAN BOARD CHAIR SHASTA WRAGGE BANK OF THE WEST

Why: 2021 marked the 28th Annual ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference, an insightful and authentic look into the leadership trends evolving today’s workplace. Over 3,000 women and men from all over the United States meet in Omaha and virtually each year for education, inspiration and networking. The conference is the premier opportunity in the region for a day of powerful leadership development. Attendees note their top two objectives in attending are to expand knowledge and gain inspiration—and that’s what we deliver. Bringing together the experience and knowledge of thought leaders from around the globe, our conference provides the tools and education to evolve leaders and help them thrive within their organizations and in all aspects of life. ICAN is honored to host this world-class leadership development event and inspire leaders and organizations of all kinds. Sponsors: A full list of sponsors can be found at http://icanconference.com/ Attendance: 2,150 Mission: Developing inspired, authentic leaders who transform the organizations and communities they serve.

LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT CARMEN TAPIO WITH ICAN’S SUSAN HENRICKS AND STAFF MEMBERS

KEYNOTE SPEAKER JO MILLER “MAKE YOUR VALUE VISIBLE”

KEYNOTE SPEAKER KAM PHILLIPS-SADLER “IF YOU’RE NOT AT THE TABLE, YOU’RE ON THE MENU”

OPENING KEYNOTE HERMINIA IBARRA “THE SPECTRUM OF SPONSORSHIP”

About: For 40 years, ICAN has been providing transformational and effective experiences in leadership CAPTIONS or development. Whether working with individuals teams, ICAN inspires bold thinking, accelerates innovation, maximizes team potential, expands capacity and builds intentional leadership networks that transform and define the future of business. ICAN’s programs include Defining Leadership, Examining Unconscious Bias, Custom Programs, coaching and more. Annual events include the 7x7x7 and the ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference. For more information: (402) 392-0746, icanleaders.org

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CAPTIONS

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r s T

e s e

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Photos courtesy Roger Humphries

SENIOR

Sensation Intercultural Senior Center World Bash: Lights of Hope

When: August 19, 2021 HONORARY CHAIRS GAILCAPTIONS & SHANE GRAEVE WITH CHILDREN JOHN AND ELLA, AND CAROLINA PADILLA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERCULTURAL SENIOR CENTER

Where: Intercultural Senior Center, 5545 Center Street Why: Fund mental-health services for older adults to address the long-lasting effects of isolation, especially those with barriers of poverty, language, culture, transportation and mobility. Special Guests: Honorary Chairs Gail & Shane Graeve

ELLEN, MARY LEE AND ED FITZSIMMONS

LYN ZIEGENBEIN AND PAULA WALLACE

Sponsors: American Machine Works, Healthy Blue, Mutual of Omaha, Prime Choice Insurance, Weitz Family Foundation, Wells Fargo Attendance: 230 Amount Raised: $80,000

ROB LETOURNEAU, GAIL GRAEVE, AND JOHN JEANETTA

DANIELLE HOWELL, JERRY BYERS AND MARJORIE MAAS

DESRIE VALDEZ AND JOSE GUZMAN

MIKE AND SHANNON PETER WITH SONYA AND CHRISTIAN GRAY

Mission: Our mission is to improve the dignity, quality of life and physical well-being of seniors from around the world through advocacy, education, access to social services, and cultural enrichment activities that benefit the entire community. About: At the Intercultural Senior Center, we believe that elders deserve dignity, wellness, and the opportunity to share their talents and wisdom with others. Many seniors in our community, in particular immigrant and refugee seniors, have physical and mental health, education, emotional, and legal needs that go unmet. ISC actively welcomes seniors ages 50 and older from around the world with culturally appropriate, high-quality education, social services, and programs that address overall wellness. CAPTIONS For more information: (402) 444-6529, www.interculturalseniorcenter.org

PHOTO BLOCKS BENEATH CAPTIONS BOB AND KATHY OSBORNE, DANIEL PADILLA,THIS MADELINE TY MOYERAD AND MARIA VAZQUEZ BOX

metroMAGAZINE • A MILESTONE IN MENTORING 2021

CAPTIONS

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEEING RED?

October 21

YOU’RE SEEING FEATURED EVENTS

American Red Cross Virtual Volunteer Fair

from our partners in The Giving Guide & Event Book Spring 2021* and our Comunity Engagement partners. To learn more email CONNECT@SpiritofOmaha.com

American Red Cross of Omaha Council Bluffs Metro us02web.zoom.us/j/86181082024#success (402) 343-7700 | www.redcross.org/volunteer/become-a-volunteer.html#step NEIAvolunteer@redcross.org

Complete information for the following events is available at metroMAGAZINE’s SpiritofOmaha.com/local-events/ or SHAREomaha.org/events/ as well as the featured websites presented for each organization in this section… CHECK WITH ORGANIZATIONS FOR COVID-RELATED SCHEDULE CHANGES & UPDATES since this edition was published

October 21 Third Thursdays IHE Lunch & Learn Institute for Holocaust Education www.facebook.com/pg/IHENE/events/?ref=page_internal (402) 334-6576 | www.ihene.org/ • slittky@ihene.org

October 15 AIM Advanced Tech Leaders Academy (402) 895-2552 | https//go.evvnt.com/774597-0 • bayers@lukaspartners.com

October 22 - October 24

October 15

Kids and Clays Sporting Clays Tournament

An Evening Among Angels Crystal Ball: Celebrating 15 years Angels Among Us (402) 934-0999 | www.myangelsamongus.org • alyssa@myangelsamongus.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha www.rmhcomaha.org/events/clay/ (402) 346-9377 | www.rmhcomaha.org • emozer@rmhcomaha.org

October 23

October 15

Aksarben Ball

Night in the Neighborhood

Aksarben Foundation (402) 554-9600 | www.aksarben.org

Completely KIDS Tickets $100 (402) 397-5809 | www.completelykids.org/news-events/night-in-the-neighborhood/ https//go.evvnt.com/815448-1 • events@completelykids.org

October 23 Howl-o-ween Howl 5k Fun Run/Walk Midlands Humane Society (712) 396-2270 | www.midlandshumanesociety.org • knelson@midlandshumanesociety.org

October 15 Legacy Gala Women on a Mission for Change | www.womenonamissionomaha.org (402) 403-9621 | www.womenonamissionomaha.org/ womenonamissionomaha@gmail.com

October 16

October 25 CASA + Appetizers Southwest Iowa CASA Program (712) 328-4811 | www.childadvocacy.iowa.gov/ • anne.christensen@dia.iowa.gov

Beer on the Boardwalk

October 25

Fontenelle Forest 8913.blackbaudhosting.com/8913/Beer-on-the-Boardwalk-2021 (402) 731-3140 | www.fontenelleforest.org/ • info@fontenelleforest.org

Omaha Go Red for Women

Omaha FCA Legacy Dinner

American Heart Association www.americanheartomaha.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/20212022OmahaGoRedForWomenExpo/tabid/1216741/Default.aspx 9900 Nicholas Street Suite 200 (402) 810-6870 • kelsey.ridder@heart.org

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (402) 934-7475 | www.OmahaFCA.org • efranzen@fca.org

October 26

October 19

Food for Thought - A Rescued Food Experience with Creighton University

October 17

Annual Climb Higher Luncheon NorthStar Foundation | www.northstar360.org (402) 614-6360 | www.northstar360.org • jessica@northstar360.org

Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue www.eventbrite.com/e/168446809943 (402) 651-0887 | www.savinggracefoodrescue.org • events@savinggracefoodrescue.org

October 20

October 28

At Ease USA 2021 Luncheon

Lead the Change with Tarana Burke

At Ease USA (531) 247-4040 | www.ateaseusa.org • beth@ateaseusa.org

Women’s Fund of Omaha | www.omahawomensfund.org/lead-the-change/ (402) 827-9280 | www.OmahaWomensFund.org • info@omahawomensfund.org 58

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 28

November 6

Monster Bash

Joslyn’s 90th Anniversary Celebration - Sold out

Methodist Hospital Foundation | www.leapforacure.org (402) 354-4825 | www.MethodistHospitalFoundation.org • foundation@nmhs.org

Joslyn Art Museum (402) 342-3300 | www.joslyn.org/ • info@joslyn.org

October 28

November 9

Women’s Fund of Southwest Iowa IMPACT for Women Summit

2021 EthicSpace Conference Business Ethics Alliance ethicspace.org (402) 280-2235 | www.businessethicsalliance.org • admin@businessethicsalliance.org

Pottawattamie County Community Foundation www.ourpccf.org/funds/womens-fund/Impact-for-Women (712) 2567007 | www.ourpccf.org • kdix@ourpccf.org

November 9

October 29

Examining Unconscious Bias Program

Friends of RiteCare Dinner & Auction Scottish Rite Foundation of Omaha | www.friendsofritecare.org (402) 342-1300 | www.RiteCareNE.org • micah@scottishriteomaha.org

ICAN - Institute for Career Advancement Needs icanglobal.net/our-programs/examining-unconscious-bias/ (402) 392-0746 | www.icanglobal.net • ican@icanglobal.net

October 30

November 11

Winter Coat Giveaway

2021 AIM Tech Awards

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Omaha (402) 779-8499 | www.svdpomaha.com • info@svdpomaha.com

AIM Institute bit.ly/AIMTechAwards2021 (402) 979.8324 | www.aiminstitute.org • Info@aiminstitute.org

November 1 Milagro

November 11

OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. $125 | www.oneworldomaha.org (402) 502-8917 • awashington@oneworldomaha.org

Lunch for the Girls Girls Incorporated Of Omaha | www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-lunch-for-thegirls-registration-166516817283 (402) 457-4676 | www.girlsincomaha.org • volunteer@girlsincomaha.org

November 2 HRAM Chapter Program It’s Not Always Racist...But Sometimes It Is

November 13

Human Resource Association of the Midlands (HRAM) Tickets $80 | https//go.evvnt.com/886342-2 ecrouch@hram.org

United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska conta.cc/2Wfpwsd (402) 502-3572 | www.ucpnebraska.org • ucp@ucpnebraska.org

Barstool Open-Benson

November 4

November 13

2021 Autumn Festival, An Arts and Crafts Affair

Children’s Annual Gala

Tickets $9 (402) 331-2889 | https//go.evvnt.com/777970-1 • hpifestivals@cox.net

Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation | www.childrensomaha.org/event/childrens-gala/ (402) 955-6851 | www.childrensomaha.org/get-involved/our-foundation/ kajacobsen@ChildrensOmaha.org

November 4 2021 Jason Awards Gala Children’s Square U.S.A. (712) 828-7464 | www.childrenssquare.org • mmangiameli@childrenssquare.org

November 17

November 4 A Time for Hope & Healing 2021 with Zak Williams

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands | www.bgcomaha.org/youthoftheyear/ (402) 342-1600 | www.bgcomaha.org • info@bgcomaha.org

The Kim Foundation | www.thekimfoundation.org/annual-event/ (402) 891-6911 | www.thekimfoundation.org • info@thekimfoundation.org

November 18

November 6

American Red Cross of Omaha Council Bluffs Metro us02web.zoom.us/j/86181082024#success (402) 343-7700 | www.redcross.org/volunteer/become-a-volunteer.html#step1 NEIAvolunteer@redcross.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands Youth of the Year

American Red Cross Virtual Volunteer Fair

JAMA GALA Tickets $250 (402) 933-8220 | https//go.evvnt.com/728138-2 • jsunderland@joslyn.org 60

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

November 18 Omaha Hunger Experience- a collaborative AT HOME DINNER event involving Saving Grace and the Stephen Center

December 4 2021 Nebraska Jingle Bell Run

Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue (402) 651-0887 | www.savinggracefoodrescue.org • events@savinggracefoodrescue.org

Arthritis Foundation Nebraska shareomaha.org/www.jbr..org/nebraska (402) 2620144 | www.arthritis.org/nebraska • sstalnaker@arthritis.org

November 18

December 27

Salute to Families

The Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball

Heartland Family Service heartlandfamilyservice.org/events/salute-to-families-2019/ (402) 552-7400 | www.heartlandfamilyservice.org/soeveryonecan/ info@heartlandfamilyservice.org

Omaha Symphony Guild $200 per person (402) 201-3052 | www.omahasymphony.org/debutante-ball • tsblossom@cox.net

January 28

November 18

Hops & Grapes Festival

Toast to Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert Merrymakers Association (402) 697-0205 | www.merrymakers.org • sandy@merrymakers.org

Partnership 4 Kids $100 –P4K Mentor and YP (402) 930-3082 | www.p4k.org • cmurray@p4k.org

November 19

February 12

Sentimental Journey

Omaha Heart & Stroke Ball

The Durham Museum $175 and up (402) 444-5071 | www.durhammuseum.org • info@www.durhammuseum.org

American Heart Association | www.heart.org/omahaheartball (402) 810-6870 • kelsey.ridder@heart.org

March 8

November 19

100 Year Anniversary Celebration

Vision Beyond Sight

OHB Tickets $125 | https//go.evvnt.com/781282-1 (402) 457-7000 | www.ohb.org/events/100/ • info@OHB.org

Outlook Enrichment outlookne.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2021 (531) 365-5342 | www.outlooken.org • kbalkovec@outlooken.org

March 25

November 21 - November 28

WMC Tenth Annual Conference

Walk Against Hate

Women on a Mission for Change (402) 403-9621 | www.womenonamissionomaha.org/ • womenonamissionomaha@gmail.com

Anti-Defamation League, Plains States Region | www.adlplains.com/ (402) 334-1330 | www.omaha.adl.org/ • pmonsky@adl.org

March 26

November 22

The Gathering

Holiday Lights Festival

CUES Fund cuesschools.org/ (402) 451-5755 | www.cuesschools.org • bobg@cuesschools.org

(402) 345-5401 | https//go.evvnt.com/840574-0 • mwinton@vgagroup.com

November 30

• what else

#GivingTuesday, powered by SHARE Omaha SHARE Omaha shareomaha.org/givingtuesday (402) 502-0360 | www.SHAREomaha.org • GivingTuesday@shareomaha.org

is possible

November 30 BSA Big Give & Leadership Luncheon Mid-America Council, Boy Scouts of America Free-will donation (402) 431-9272 | www.mac-bsa.org • mac@scouting.org

December 3

in 2021 and Beyond…?

Miracle Night for Madonna Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals’ Foundation (402) 401-5052 | www.madonna.org/foundation • mgwepfer@madonna.org 62

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• mMAGAZINE

March 8, 2022

NEW DATE!

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CELEBRATING THE ONGOING COMMITMENT OF OUR COMMUNITY’S GIVING SPIRIT WITH TWO EDITIONS IN 2021!

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