February/March 2022

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the spirit of omaha

• see me

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

winning formula… feel me Commonimpact Senses Festival lifelong

COVER PHOTO BY SEAN AHLQUIST, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

ConneCting our Community

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Spiritofomaha.Com

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feBruary/marCh 2022

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in this ISSUE

connecting our community

cover story

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SEE ME. FEEL ME. common senses festival • autism acceptance

featured in this issue

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INSPIRING LEGACY visiting nurse association at 125 years

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HABITAT BOOST! nebraska wildlife rehab state-of-the-art urban center

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14

connecting to our charities

SPOTLIGHT ON: american red cross

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SPOTLIGHT ON: lutheran family services

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SPOTLIGHT ON: scatter joy acres

departments/columns

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connecting to our volunteers

SHARE OMAHA

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lifting up do-gooders

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SWARTZBAUGH, FARBER & ASSOC. your money

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metroSPIRIT

connecting to our senses

with mary vandenack

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VANDENACK WEAVER LLC planning matters

31

STEPHANIE VONDRAK

14

impact!

events

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SCENE highlights from recent charity & cultural events

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SAVE THE DATE presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha

ENTER YOUR 2022/23 CHARITY EVENTS NOW! Events can be included in: • weeklyCONNECTOR e-newsletter, • print and digital editions of metroMAGAZINE • Fall edition of The Giving Guide & Event Book • SpiritofOmaha.com

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connecting to our commonality

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CReditS

metromagazine is wholly owned and operated by the publisher and is not affiliated with any other publication, operating solely on subscription and advertising revenues and the good will of the agencies and charities we support; all of which are very important to the continuing growth and quality of this publication. thank you to all who support this endeavor.

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metromagazine 2022 edition • vol. 34 no. 1 Press releases and other editorial information may be sent to: P.o. Box 241611, omaHa, ne 68124 or e-mailed to: editor@Spiritofomaha.com Publisher/Editor-in-Chief andrea l. “andee” Hoig

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What else is possible in 2022?

ichael J. weaver, J.d.

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY

with ANDEE Hoig podcast 3

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words FROM MY HEART

mmagazine • LetteR FRom tHe pUBLiSHeR

TO DO OR to be?

enjoying the journey:

We are two years into a completely different way of BE-ing. I don’t know about you, but for me my life is a lot different. How I show up is different, what I want to create is different, even the conversations I have with both myself and others is different.

With Ease and Joy, ANDEE

Being able to navigate through challenges or unfamiliar territory—some may consider it a skill, but ultimately it is a choice. The journey of life is unpredictable at times and everything you do is simply a choice that is creating your future.

Enjoying the journey is a choice. In previous publisher’s letters I mention choice—a lot—especially over the past couple of years. The are many things I can consider “not fun” but require someone to do the task. I often find myself asking, “Do I enjoy doing this? If not, is there someone else who can do it?”You can hire someone to do just about anything, and if money is the main reason you feel you “can’t” hire someone and is the roadblock, then ask for more money to show up, and don’t conclude or expect it to show up in a certain way.

andRea L. Hoig ahoig@Spiritofomaha.com

I have spent a lot of time during my life not enjoying the journey, although I consider myself an upbeat person. There have been times where I have flat-out resisted enjoyment or JOY. I have been really looking at that in 2022 and playing around with it.

One thing I do not like are to-DO lists. I find myself getting overwhelmed because of the number of things to be done on my to-DO list; I then tend to focus on how much I “need” to DO or “have” to DO. I am then convinced that it would take a miracle worker to manage all the moving parts in my life and businesses. You don’t find a lot of enjoyment in that space, my friends.

I was recently on a call with Dr. Dain Heer, co-creator of Access Consciousness and author of “Being You Changing the World,” which I read for the first time in November 2017 and completely changed my world. On this call (and I am paraphrasing a bit), Dain mentioned, “It’s not what you DO or the DO-ing of it that creates more in your life, but the energy and space that you DO it from or BE that creates more in your life.”

Creating more can mean all kinds of things: more money, more fun, more energy, more ease, more joy, more of everything that lights you up—you can fill in the blanks. In fact, I encourage you to do so. I released the burden of “to DO” and changed it to “to BE” when I asked myself, ‘What do I want to create more of?”

Another thing I will encourage you to do is to create a WOW list. A year from now, what can you ask for today that would WOW you? Not something little, something BIG! Ask for several things, write them down, make choices to create more and see what shows up over the next 12 months.

Let’s make a date to connect in early 2023 and share our WOWs! With ease & joy, ANDEE

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SUPPORT these participating nonprofit partners in the 2021 Fall/Winter

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OU’RE IN GOOD COMPANY

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR PARTICIPATING NONPROFITS

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edition of The Giving Guide & Event Book

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

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AUTISM AWARENESS IS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE

A GROUNDBREAKING MONTH-LONG EVENT opens eyes and minds about children on the autism spectrum and their families.

A few years ago, on a visit to New York City, Kate Weitz and her son Freddie attended a performing arts festival for children on the autism spectrum. What she saw at Lincoln Center made her envision something similar for Omaha.

But before she got inspired, she got mad.

“We attended the festival in 2018 and when we came back to Omaha, I was furious that I had to fly to New York City for my child to experience something like that,” she said with a dry chuckle. “I also felt we could do it better.”

In April, which is national Autism Awareness Month, Weitz’s grand vision becomes reality as the Common Senses Festival, a monthlong collection of lectures, performances and artistic installations designed to create conversations and understanding of the neurodiverse community.

“This initially was going to be just the installations and we were really going to hyper-focus on that,” she said with a sheepish smile.

“Obviously, it’s spiraled into many different directions.”

Maximum impact Many inaugural events are intentionally planned on a smaller scale and built up from there.

Common Senses, on the other hand, is designed on a much more comprehensive scale. Even being postponed twice by the COVID pandemic did nothing to curb organizers’ enthusiasm; in fact, Weitz said, it only grew the concept larger.

autism community and the neurodiverse community as well.

There’s really no part of it that doesn’t hit our mission.”

The festival is comprised of three categories. Lectures will take place throughout the festival that include a symposium on inclusion in the arts, an opportunity for arts organizations to expand their knowledge on sensory-friendly performances and why it’s beneficial to all. Autism Action Partnership will host a “There’s been nothing like this done facilitated discussion with before,” Weitz said. “We’ve brought individuals impacted by autism, called Timbre Talks, to address together some really interesting challenges for the autism people and we don’t want to do feature them just for a weekend. If community and to move the needle forward toward positive change. In we’re going to have maximum addition, the general public can impact and we want to make engage in interactive installations changes, this is the way to do it.” that help to educate the Omaha metro on what makes humans The multi-faceted, sensory-friendly unique and what we all have in event, hosted by Autism Action common.

Partnership (AAP), is wildly ambitious in its variety and scope “There are a lot of wonderful compared to other events of its type. organizations locally doing great things. There are not enough of “The festival has so many different them, including us,” Dougherty said. facets of education, of advancing “Families are desperate for services ideals, of breaking myths, of helping and they’re desperate for diagnosis. people understand facts and also The list goes on and on.” creating a platform for the neurodiverse community,” said “Some of the components of what Justin Dougherty, AAP president we’re doing here is addressing an and CEO. “There are a number of audience that maybe doesn’t know components of the festival that are anything about autism, doesn’t engage with autism, ~ continued designed to lift the voice of the

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story by DWAIN HEBDA • photos provided courtesy of AUTISM ACTION PARTNERSHIP

• mmagazine

See Me, Feel Me Common Senses Festival “we are all similar, we are all unique”

A lot OF THE THINGS THAT WE’RE DOING, I THINK, ARE GOING TO BE ‘a-ha’ MOMENTS FOR A LOT OF FOLKS TO BE LIKE, ‘wow, I NEVER thought OF IT THAT WAY.’ ~ KATE WEITZ, MOTHER OF SON WITH AUTISM

PHOTO: E.BRONSON.UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN autism awareness is

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AUTISM AWARENESS IS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE

See Me, Feel Me doesn’t see the life of the community through the eyes of autism, but would love to know more. Through this festival, we’re hoping to connect with a lot of folks who have that interest and the desire to do better and create better, more inclusive anything in this community.”

Engaging the senses The second component of programming is art and technology installations, a series of created environments and structures that engage the senses in ways that are inclusive of a variety of tolerances and comfort levels.

Sean Ahlquist, associate professor at Taubman College of Architecture + Urban Planning at the University of Michigan, is one of several individuals whose installations are featured at Common Senses. Ahlquist’s unique playscapes utilize textiles stretched over a framework to create almost unlimited tactile and sensory experiences.

“Environment, with the right combination of sensation for each child, can really activate and turn the lights on and make them engaged and more interested in learning, or interested in social interaction, or able to engage social interaction,” he said. “My search is to understand what are the key components to environment that help with that, and also how much can the individual shape the environment themselves.”

Ahlquist, himself a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, said creating any playscape for such children presents enormous challenges as the condition is highly individualized insofar as how each child interacts with the world around them. That’s what led him to utilize fabric, which provides a much higher level of flexibility than other structural material.

SOCIAL SENSORY ARCHITECTURE PHOTO: SEAN AHLQUIST, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

“The idea, very simply, is that it’s quite an elaborate version of a camping tent, in a way,” he said. “What’s nice is, by taking that kind of lightweight approach 10

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Common Senses Festival “we are all similar, we are all unique” towards the materiality of it, everything has a certain level of flexibility to it. There’s always an immediate cause-and-effect relationship so that the child can understand, ‘I can impose my will on this thing,’ which is often one of the failings of environment and when we see the most upsetting moments.”

Immersive production The third component of the festival, performance, features critically acclaimed multi-sensory theatrical experiences, developed by New York-based troupe Trusty Sidekick and licensed by The Rose children’s theater in Omaha. The Rose actors will deliver an immersive production designed specifically for young audiences on the autism spectrum. Performed before small audience groups, each member gets one-on-one attention as they enjoy a performance featuring puppetry, live music and interactive play.

“The inspiration for the performing and individual art components of this was, in part, through recognizing the division between the arts and technology research and science, and wanting to blend these two worlds,” Dougherty said. “Why are the science academia people over here and the arts people over here when they’re doing stuff that is so complementary and can have a greater impact if it’s kind of woven together?

“Through that lens we’ve found some people who are doing exactly that, which is weaving the arts and the sciences together in a way that is advancing things, whether it’s for the autism community specifically or for the general public’s understanding of what sensory processing means. We’re not just replicating something that was super cool. We’re adding a whole different lens to it that really makes this the first of its kind, that SOCIAL SENSORY ARCHITECTURE we’re aware of, in the world.” ~ continued ~ continued PHOTO: SEAN AHLQUIST, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN autism awareness is

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AUTISM AWARENESS IS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE

See Me, Feel Me Better for everyone Both Weitz and Dougherty are quick to point out that for all that Common Senses offers for families who are on the autism spectrum, the festival offers equally important learning opportunities for those who are not.

“For the smaller community of what my family is in, we’re really pushing to make this festival a launching point to have sensory-friendly performances and more relaxed experiences, so that it’s not as isolating for families like ours to get into the community and to have something to do,” Weitz said.

ORCHID AT NIGHT

“But I also think one of the more important things for me is the messaging people take away once they’ve experienced the installations and they’ve gone to a performance. That is, when you make things better, when you adapt in a certain way for our very vulnerable population, it ends up being better for everyone. A lot of the things that we’re doing, I think, are going to be ‘aha’ moments for a lot of folks to be like, ‘Wow, I never thought of it that way.’

“As a mother, yes, I want to try to make things better for my son, and there’s a benefit for everyone.”

Get the latest information on Common Senses events and scheduling at commonsensesfestival.com.

UP AND AWAY 2018 TRUSTY SIDEKICK THEATRE CO AND LINCOLN CENTER 12

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Common Senses Festival “we are all similar, we are all unique” THE FESTIVAL HAS SO MANY DIFFERENT facets OF EDUCATION, OF advancing IDEALS, OF breaking myths, OF HELPING PEOPLE UNDERSTAND FACTS AND ALSO CREATING A PLATFORM FOR THE neurodiverse COMMUNITY…THERE’S REALLY NO PART OF IT THAT DOESN’T HIT OUR mission. ~ JUSTIN DOUGHERTY, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AUTISM ACTION PARTNERSHIP

THERE’S BEEN nothing LIKE THIS DONE BEFORE… IF WE’RE GOING TO HAVE MAXIMUM impact AND WE WANT TO MAKE CHANGES, this IS THE WAY TO DO IT. ~ KATE WEITZ

CARDIO CHAIRS

autism awareness is

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VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION: INSPIRED VISION

INSPIRED BY THE VISION of one person in 1896, Visiting Nurse Association has successfully served individuals and families around the Omaha community with quality health care services for over a century.

Anna Millard Rogers, the daughter of Omaha mayor Ezra Millard, had a vision: to help the individuals and families in Nebraska who were sick or injured and had no access to health care. Seeing the extreme need of people in the city streets of Omaha, she wanted to set out to make her mark in the world by bringing kindness and attentive care to people who might be struggling.

professionals to provide in-home medication and infusion services.

This produces revenue for the organization, as it partners with physician groups, hospitals, and local home health care and hospice organizations that serve individuals in their homes.

transitioned to facility-based care, where patients visited doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals to get the treatment they needed.

But today, things are starting to swing back to where they started.

“Today, largely due to complex issues Summerfelt shared, “The mission surrounding health insurance, there premise remains today as VNA is a resurgence toward home-based cares for people who are health care,” explained Summerfelt.

So, she founded Visiting Nurse marginalized, uninsured and under- “VNA is passionate about home Association (VNA), and the rest is resourced—wherever they call health because we are the eyes and history. Today, the Visiting Nurse home. For some, that is a homeless ears in homes where other medical Association continues to walk out shelter; for others an apartment, the vision that Rogers put in place. assisted living, or a house in which professionals don’t go. In those For the last 18 years, James (Jamie) they want to remain independent as homes, we see the social Summerfelt has led the organization long as possible.” determinants of health firsthand, as president and CEO, and he, his including signs of abuse, lack of executive team and over 200 Annually, VNA serves over 45,000 resources, hunger, and dangerous employees help provide compaspeople through its program offerings. conditions that contribute to sionate care to the communities of Currently, the organization is dysfunction and death. In those Omaha and Council Bluffs. partnering with the Douglas County Health Department and over 70 VNA homes, we develop individualized Programs plans of care based on the holistic Visiting Nurse Association offers a nurses are providing COVID vaccines view of patient lives that we are at the county’s health clinics. variety of care for Nebraska privileged to witness.”

Adapting as needed residents, including homeless shelter nursing services, parenting Summerfelt explained that health Pandemic impacts support, immunization services, care delivery has formed an One of the most beautiful aspects of school health programs, home interesting curve since the the Visiting Nursing Association’s health aides, access to home health organization began operations. In history is that it has maintained care and hospice for those in need, the beginning, most health care was strength as it successfully navigated in addition to physician-directed based at home. In other words, if through other serious worldwide mother/childcare. The organization you needed a doctor, the doctor crises such as the polio epidemic, also has an infusion pharmacy that came to you. But, over the years, works with health care health care services have Spanish influenza, H1N1, and more.

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125 years

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sTorY BY BROOKE STRICKLAND • pHoTos And pATIenT sTorIes CoUrTesY oF VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION

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Inspired Vision vna’s increasing legacy So when the coronavirus pandemic began, impacting individuals and homes around the country, VNA was poised to do its part to help. The organization’s positive reputation and connections within the community made it very natural for its team members to step in and provide COVID-19 care.

leaders that understand the public they serve, with the goal of always providing the best of the best in care.

Summerfelt said, “Our focus remains in home-based care, where we individualize services for people who have nowhere to go and no way to pay for their health care.”

“As a trusted source of information, VNA has educated community members, collaborative partners, and patients in infection control, while also providing COVID testing, COVID immunizations, and serving as a postacute care provider for those with COVID who are discharged from hospitals and medical centers,” explained Summerfelt. “During the pandemic, VNA has also maintained our commitment to providing services to the marginalized, as they have been the first to be impacted by COVID-19.”

Recent changes and future outlook In 2021, VNA changed its business model. It sold its Medicare-certified home health and hospice, which were government and insurance-funded programs, to a national health care provider called Amedisys. Doing this allowed the organization to separate itself from a competitive business that included high costs and the strict rules of the insurance and managed-care industries. Making this shift in how VNA does business has allowed the organization to better focus its resources on its mission of helping those in need. It has also helped VNA better reflect the vision that Anna Millard Rogers had more than a century ago.

Looking ahead, VNA is meant to continue serving the communities around Omaha and Council Bluffs for at least another 125 years. To accomplish this, leaders are working on establishing increased partnerships with local foundations and funders who believe in and support their mission, in addition to collaborating with other government, medical and nonprofit partners.

VNA’s aim is to continue building a team of reputable visiting nurse association

| InspIred VIsIon

~ continued

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VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION: INSPIRED VISION

VNA IS passionate ABOUT HOME HEALTH BECAUSE WE ARE THE EYES AND EARS in homes WHERE other MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS don’t go.

visiting nurse association

~ JAMIE SUMMERFELT, PRESIDENT AND CEO, VNA

Hope Hope was referred to VNA through the physiciandirected mother/child program. She was five weeks old and diagnosed with failure to thrive, poor weight gain, malnutrition, and severe reflux. She was hospitalized four times, and the hospital staff contacted Child Protective Services out of concern that Hope was possibly being neglected. But working with Hope’s parents, the VNA nurse saw a caring mom and dad who were overwhelmed by their circumstances.

Jolene (not pictured) Jolene suffered a spinal-cord injury from a diving accident when she was 19, leaving her a quadriplegic.

For years, her mother was her primary caretaker and they shared a home together. As both Jolene and her mother aged, they knew they would need assistance to remain in the home they both loved, but their resources were limited.

VNA’s shelter nurse connected Cooper to Community Alliance, which helped him begin to stabilize his mental health. She also addressed his severe stomach issues that were related to eating spoiled food out of dumpsters while living on the street. In partnership with shelter staff, Cooper was housed and became eligible for veterans’ benefits that he never knew existed.

As one of the only post-acute options for COVID patients, VNA was there when Cesar’s doctor discharged him to go home. VNA funding provided nursing, social work, and therapy. VNA nurses provided education that not only helped Cesar recover from COVID, but also helped him manage his diabetes and high blood pressure. They helped Cesar and his

VNA’s Home Health Aide (HHA) program has been a great support for Jolene and Judy. Providing nonmedical care, HHA staff assist with bathing and There were no local child care facilities that accept personal care, range-of-motion exercises, repositioning, babies with feeding tubes, so Hope’s mother couldn’t and transfers to a motorized wheelchair using a Hoyer work. Her father was fired for missing too much work while Hope was hospitalized. The added stress to their lift. Because VNA staff work with Jolene regularly, they see subtle or abrupt changes that might concern her already limited resources made every obstacle look bigger. However, Hope’s parents worked with their VNA physician. With the support of HHA, Jolene and her mother have maintained their overall health and wellnurse to find the right solutions, and Hope has started being. VNA staff have also been a wonderful source of to gain weight—reaching 12 pounds when she turned social interaction and emotional support when Jolene seven months old. VNA personnel have also educated and Judy felt isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hope’s parents about developmental delays and connected the family to a financial assistance program.

Cesar Cesar had an active lifestyle and a thriving business Cooper providing lawn care and snow removal. Because he was Cooper was a U.S. Navy veteran who lost his housing uninsured and the majority of his income went to living when he had to choose between paying rent and buying expenses, he rarely went to the doctor. That changed his mental-health prescriptions. On the streets of when a wound on his foot got infected. He was Omaha, he stopped all medications and spun out of hospitalized and diagnosed with diabetes and high control. He met a VNA nurse while eating a meal at one blood pressure, then tested positive for COVID-19. of the local homeless shelters, and she provided care When his foot didn’t heal, a doctor had to amputate his and resources. lower leg.

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Uncommon Obstacles and the people who overcame them girlfriend access home equipment and assistive devices to strengthen his body so he could safely navigate their apartment after his amputation. Community partners were contacted to provide rental assistance and access to prosthetic support.

Nancy Nancy was 21 years old and pregnant with her first child when she enrolled in the Love and Learn Program.

She was unemployed, had a health condition that required frequent medical appointments, and had a history of mental health challenges.

Hope

Nancy

Jolene

Nancy’s VNA nurse taught her about fetal development, physical and emotional changes in pregnancy, labor and birth, and why it’s important to keep prenatal and medical appointments. A parent coach connected her to community resources and taught her about healthy relationships. The Growing Great Kids™ parenting Cooper Caesar Drew curriculum taught her the importance of parenting through child development and positive parent-child In emotional, physical and financial crisis, Drew thought interaction. his only way out was suicide. He sat in a park for hours with a gun, but he couldn’t go through with it. He called Nancy gave birth to a healthy, full-term baby girl. She a friend who took him to one of the local homeless found a job at a daycare where she can take her shelters. daughter to work, she loves reading to her baby, and she’s motivated to be a great parent.

At the shelter, Drew met a VNA nurse who addressed his immediate needs to establish medical care and get Although Nancy faced a significant chronic medical medication. She also collaborated with the shelter staff condition, with the support of VNA, she could focus on to help Drew apply for disability and low-income her goals of having a healthy baby, parenting, learning housing. to budget, locating housing and finding a job.

Today, Drew lives in a permanent supportive housing Drew apartment and continues to see the same VNA nurse on In the span of six months, Drew lost most of the things a regular basis. His cancer has metastasized, but he knows VNA will help provide hospice services in his that were important to him. His mother died after five years of Drew serving as her main caretaker. The house apartment when the time comes. “I was in a deep hole, but I’m better now,” Drew said. “For whatever time I he had been promised was sold by family members, have left, there are people who care about me and leaving him homeless. His beloved dog died. And he was diagnosed with stage-four bone cancer. watch out for me.” visiting nurse association

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NEBRASKA WILDLIFE REHAB: HABITAT BOOST

FOR MORE THAN TWO DECADES, Nebraska Wildlife Rehab has created a meaningful impact throughout the state by providing animal advocacy and educational opportunities for people of all ages.

The state of Nebraska is wellknown for many things—a flourishing agriculture sector, bustling urban communities, and bountiful attractions and recreational activities, to name a few—but perhaps one of its most admirable qualities is its beautiful and diverse native wildlife and ecosystems. Preserving and restoring these spectacular habitats is the prime focus at Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, an organization that rescues, rehabilitates and returns animals back into the wild while also educating the public on how to live in harmony with nature.

Laura Stastny, executive director for Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, said the decision to build an urban wildlife center was based on the notion that it would be more accessible for the community.

center, and staff offices as well as a gift shop, which generates funds to support the organization.

Four of the nurseries feature color tuning lighting that can maintain the natural circadian rhythms of animals to help them heal. Nearly every room includes a camera, allowing for many new educational opportunities.

“We have plenty of outdoor operations already, as we lease a site on a private nature preserve,” Stastny said. “We knew a space in the city would give us so many more “We don’t generally offer tours or opportunities.” allow people to see the animals because wildlife see humans as Improving care for animals predators and become very stressed To provide care at the highest level, by this,” Stastny said. “However, many people still want to see how the new complex features a fullservice veterinary clinic that houses we do things, so we are excited to The nonprofit, which operates a 3D veterinary CAT scan, radiology, be able to share footage with the throughout the state, was initially public now thanks to the technology full surgical suite, intensive care founded 23 years ago as a in our building.” unit, wound vacuum and therapy volunteer-based entity. Over the years, the organization has worked lasers, an isolation room, and Next on the agenda is hiring a advanced diagnostic equipment. diligently to meet the needs of the wildlife veterinarian and vet tech Attached to the clinic is a laboratory, community and has grown this spring. tremendously as a result. Today, the which allows staff to run almost every blood sample in-house. center cares for over 7,000 wild Educating on wildlife animals each year. To continue to Partnering with the community to accommodate such a large number The building, which was a call educate youth is an important facet center in its previous life, was of animals and offer the best of the organization. Currently, possible resources to the community, designed with biosecurity in mind.

Nebraska Wildlife Rehab Details like epoxy flooring, block Nebraska Wildlife Rehab opened collaborates with Collective for the doors of its brand new, state-of- walls and floor drains make the Youth, which implements afterspaces especially easy to disinfect. school programs in Omaha schools. the-art urban facility in November 2021. Dubbed the Baldwin Wildlife In addition to 17 animal nurseries, According to Stastny, the Center and Hubbard Family Wildlife the center also features a diet prep partnership reaches students in Hospital, the new space spans more kitchen, laundering and cage-wash- eight middle schools and two ing rooms, a large educational elementary schools each year. than 15,000 square feet.

NWRI OPENS

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story by GABBY HELLBUSCH • photos courtesy of NEBRASKA WILDLIFE REHAB

• mmAgAzIne

habitat boost! nebraska wildlife rehab

WE WOULDN’T BE ANYWHERE near WHERE WE ARE TODAY WITHOUT THE generosity OF OUR DONORS AND THOSE WHO allow US TO DO OUR WORK. ~ LAURA STASTNY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NEBRASKA WILDLIFE REHAB

~ continued nebraska wildlife rehab

| hAbItAt boost

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NEBRASKA WILDLIFE REHAB: HABITAT BOOST

nebraska wildlife rehab “We work with additional schools by request, too,” Supportive community Stastny said. “We also have our own high school A generous donor base and a caring community have science academy, which brings real-life biological field kept the organization thriving. experience to students before they enter college. Our “This center is more than what we could have ever university internship program will be accepting 24 hoped for,” Stastny said. “Our donors have been so interns this summer, as well.” generous as to give us one of the best facilities in the country. And now, it’s up to us to use the facility to its Currently, the organization is working on a new full potential. And I think, of course, we should be doing this in Omaha, in Nebraska. Not only do the animals collaboration with Omaha Public Schools. One of the projects that high-schoolers will assist with is growing deserve to have advocates working for them, but the and planting four native Nebraska gardens at the center. people of Nebraska deserve a resource and the opportunity to learn more and do more for our environment.”

In the past, the organization has worked with Film Streams, the Joslyn Art Museum and many other Teaching others about wildlife, especially people with preconceived notions, and “watching the lightbulb go conservation-minded organizations. Additionally, Nebraska Wildlife Rehab is the wildlife partner for the off” is one of Stastny’s all-time favorite parts of the job.

However, there’s one other moment that makes the top Nebraska Humane Society. of the list.

Stastny said educating the public on wildlife is a critical “The day the animal is released is, hands-down, the piece of the puzzle. most rewarding aspect for us,” Stastny said. “We’re here to do everything we can to get wild animals who “A lot of people might think, ‘Why save a squirrel? There were injured, mostly due to human action, back into the are so many of them already.’ The most important thing wild so they can live the life they deserve.” we tell people is that more than 90 percent of animals Even when the hours are long, the work is dirty or that enter our care are injured, ill or orphaned due to smelly and the situations can be absolutely human action—either intentional or unintentional,” heartbreaking, Stastny said there is no other profession Stastny said. “Most incidents involve lawn mowers, cars, she would rather be doing—especially in such a one-ofor people finding animals and trying to help them when a-kind community. they don’t need help. Many attempt to trap and relocate, which actually kills the majority of them, and it’s illegal “We wouldn’t be anywhere near where we are today without the generosity of our donors and those who in Nebraska. Another reason animals enter our facility is allow us to do our work,” Stastny said. “We are due to animal cruelty. We’re not interfering with nature, looking forward to collaborating with the community but balancing the scale because of the impact humans moving forward, not only in Omaha, but across the have on natural ecosystems and wildlife.” state of Nebraska.”

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contInued

•

mmAgAzIne

state-of-the-art urban center

nebraska wildlife rehab

| hAbItAt boost

• AMERICAN RED CROSS • mMAGAZINE

american red cross HEARTS OPEN. ALL IN. BYLINE HERE

arc • power of volunteers, GENEROSITY OF DONORS

spotlighting

phone: (402) 343-7700 email: naeiacommunications@redcross.org web: www.redcross.org/local/nebraska address: 2912 S 80th Ave. Omaha, NE 68124

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The American Red Cross exists to provide compassionate care to those in need.

A network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world.

The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters in the United States every year, ranging from home fires that affect a single family to hurricanes that affect tens of thousands, to earthquakes that impact millions. In these events, the Red Cross provides shelter, food, and health and mental health services to help families and entire communities get back on their feet. Although the Red Cross is not a government agency, it is an essential part of the response when disaster strikes.

The Red Cross helps military members, veterans and their families prepare for, cope with, and respond to the challenges of military service. Emergency communications, training, support to wounded warriors and veterans, and access to community resources help an average of 150,000 military families and veterans annually.

Your donations of blood are what make the American Red Cross the largest single supplier of blood and blood products in the U.S. Each year, nearly four million people donate blood through the Red Cross, helping to provide more than 40 percent of America’s blood supply.

The Red Cross is the nation’s leading provider of lifesaving skills courses, such as CPR, first aid and lifeguard training. Each year, more than nine million Americans participate in our training programs, including first responders, educators, babysitters, and people who want to be prepared to help others in an emergency.

The American Red Cross is part of the world’s largest humanitarian network with 13 million volunteers in 187 countries. Working together, the Red Cross helps respond to disasters, build safer communities, and teach the rules of war (international humanitarian law).

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THE AMERICAN RED CROSS PREVENTS AND ALLEVIATES HUMAN SUFFERING IN THE FACE OF EMERGENCIES BY MOBILIZING THE power OF VOLUNTEERS AND THE generosity OF DONORS. mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

11/02/2022 4:21 AM

spotlighting

• LFS

• mMAGAZINE

lutheran family services INCREASING OPPORTUNITY IN OUR COMMUNITIES

address: 124 South 24th Street Omaha, NE 68102

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska, Inc.

COYNER & DONNA SMITH ESTABLISHED THE $3M SMITH DIVERSITY scholarship FUND IN 2021, WHICH PROVIDES $25K COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR refugee AND minority NEBRASKA HIGH- SCHOOL GRADUATES. 23

~ JAYMES SIME PRESIDENT & CEO, CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE

SPOTLIGHT feb2022.indd 23

ESTABLISHED IN 1892, LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES OF NEBRASKA (LFS) is now one of the largest nonprofit, nongovernmental health and human services agencies in the state, with locations across Nebraska and in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Together, in collaborative partnerships with service providers, government, business, and civic and religious institutions, we work to foster the kinds of environments required to help this state and region achieve safety, hope and well-being for all people.

LFS effectively delivers health and human care to meet the social, cultural and linguistic needs of individuals, families and communities, demonstrating its mission in the following service areas: Community-based services - Providing opportunities for children and families to thrive.

• Family Preservation services: Pre- and post-adoption services, foster care, and in-home services, kinship care, home study, and pregnancy and maternal health counseling.

• Individual and Family Support services: Case management, crisis intervention, basic needs support, disaster care management, health navigation, access to resources, referrals to community resources, legal immigration services, and interpretation and translation language support.

• Economic Empowerment: Supporting families as they pursue self-sufficiency through workforce development, assetbuilding programs, and career planning.

• Education services: ESL and educational assistance, cultural orientation for newcomers, financial literacy and budgeting, Nurturing Parenting programs, and prevention and early intervention services for expectant mothers and at-risk families.

Health & Wellness services - Equipping people to lead their best lives.

• Children’s Behavioral Health: Family support groups, individual and family mental health services.

• Adult Behavioral Health: Person-centered, evidencebased therapies to treat mental health and substance-use conditions. Includes specialized services for military veterans and their families.

• Integrated Support services: Healthcare services, including medication management and peer support to help stabilize people in crisis.

lfs • lutheran family SERVICES OF NEBRASKA

phone: (402) 342-7038 email: info@lfsneb.org web: www.lfsneb.org

mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

11/02/2022 4:21 AM

• SJA

• mMAGAZINE

BYLINE HERE

sja • rescuing people WITH RESCUED ANIMALS

spotlighting

AT SCATTER JOY ACRES, our goal is to provide a place of healing for all. Animals connect with humans at a level that other people cannot reach. This companionship and connection makes them an integral part of the healing process. They do not judge us the way other humans do, enabling them to connect with us.

Our animal-assisted therapy program makes a difference in the lives of our patients who come from all walks of life. Veterans, at-risk youth, developmentally disabled individuals, returning citizens, and many others are able to find a place of healing here.

We are also open as a petting zoo to allow others to connect with animals they may otherwise never meet in an up-close and personal manner.

Spending time at Scatter Joy Acres allows you to meet a wide variety of domestic and exotic animals. From cows to kangaroos and from goats to reindeer, it is a one-of-a-kind experience in Omaha.

When you donate to Scatter Joy Acres you make an incredible impact on the community. You help heal the broken and provide joy for many others.

We recently broke ground for our new barn that will allow us to provide an indoor opportunity for therapy in inclement weather.

Many sponsorship opportunities are available for you to create a lasting legacy with your generous gifts.

SCATTER JOY ACRES RESCUES, FEEDS AND CARES FOR NEGLECTED, HUNGRY AND ABANDONED ANIMALS TO CREATE healthy relationships IN OUR COMMUNITIES.

We thank you for your support.

scatter joy acres

A 26-ACRE RESCUE AND THERAPY RANCH

phone: (402) 709-9401 email: info@scatterjoyacres.org web: www.scatterjoyacres.org address: 4966 Newport Avenue Omaha, NE 68152

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share omaha executive director

Marjorie M. Maas, SHARE Omaha executive director

circle moment

• SHARE OMAHA

CREATIVELY celebrating

black history people contextualize their life experience; and in putting that work and storytelling in the hands of marjorie m. maas artists and its audience. For instance, the ongoing share omaha exhibit, Undesign the Redline, creates a space executive director where information on segregation and privilege are shared and an idea is experienced and creates a space for conversation, one where visitors can add their own voices to the work.

Also vital to the mission of The Union is its performing arts programming. Mainelli discussed this as, “Theatre is where that kind of work happens most profoundly in the most visceral way.” He continued, “It creates a space for authentic stories of the African diaspora to be told; plays written by contemporary or historical Black playwrights, featuring Black directors, featuring Black actors.” Intentionally scheduled are stories of the North Omaha experience. Audiences can see experiences they lived reflected back to them in a way that is, as Mainelli said, “not abstract, that is specific and emotional. It contextualizes a lived experience, through theatre, in a way only art can do.”

What is a Circle Moment? A Circle Moment is when vital community pieces come together, align perfectly, and create a moment of magic—for good. We at SHARE Omaha are blessed to witness these special instances every day. Whether it’s givers discovering a cause to support wholeheartedly, volunteers raising their hands to help when a crisis or challenge arises around them, or nonprofit organizations giving their all to strengthen our community, these are the stories that fuel progress for others and personal purpose. This issue of metroMAGAZINE falls during Black History Month, and I have chosen to feature two organizations approaching and championing Black history and appreciation through the arts: The Union for Contemporary Art and The Rose Theater. Their very work is an example of Circle Moments.

“Every month is Black History Month…” In speaking with The Union’s director of communications, Patrick Mainelli, and asking him about the organization’s focus on February’s Black History Month, he said, “When part of your mission is to amplify voices of people who have been historically marginalized, really every month is Black History Month. Every day is Indigenous Peoples Day, and every month is Pride.”

There is a core belief at the organization that our society needs the vision artists have to offer. Aligned with that mission is the current February exhibition (through February 26) of the late artist Mavis Pusey’s contemporary abstract work focused on construction and decay in the urban environment. This is the first time The Union has featured work by an artist who is no longer living. Mainelli described this as it “moves the experience in the realm of history.” Pusey’s significance as a historical figure is added dimension, as she was under-recognized in her lifetime as a pioneer in Black abstraction art.

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Young, Gifted & Black. The Rose Theater wants to make sure all stories are being told and that youth and audiences feel heard and safe. As part of their Teens ‘N’ Theater programming, they coordinate the “Young, Gifted & Black” (YGB) troupe. It is an ensemble of diverse teenage youths who explore issues of being Black in today’s culture through improvisation, creating new new theater works to share their common story and learn about themes impacting this generation.

This year’s work will circle around Black excellence with an emphasis on positivity.

I spoke with Alease Timbers, co-director of YGB, and she said, “Everything is so [down] for COVID. We want to shed light on positivity… In Black history, we tend to only focus on certain aspects. The things we find positive, which others may find negative—these are attributes that make you special.”

This year, YGB is accomplishing this by spotlighting the history and experiences of the Divine 9, historically Black fraternities and sororities. An additional portion of programming will be looking at step dancing, its African and hip-hop influences and how this is showing up in TikTok dances. Also, discussions on hair textures and the relaxed hair movement will bring in other outside presenting partners.

Since 2006, YGB has been a community outreach program where youth would come to The Rose Theater for a few weeks and present an event sharing the troupe’s work. The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, and to be responsive, The Rose and YGB organizers this year are meeting youth where they are physically, like taking the programming to Girls, Inc. to alleviate concerns with transportation, then coming together and sharing these lessons and ways to solve problems in and with cultural positivity.

If you know of a youth who would enjoy YGB, or you have questions, feel free to reach out to Timbers at AleaseT@rosetheater.org.

What are your Circle Moments? What moments of community magic have you been a part of recently? We want to hear about it! 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 way, we think, to spur action is to inspire through telling stories of Circle Moments and emphasizing that tiny acts of goodness add up to a healthy and engaged community.

Find your fit for supporting and serving the causes you care about at SHAREomaha.org. mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

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Hab

metroMAGAZINE inspires – SHARE Omaha connects.

There are thousands of ways to do good for our neighbors.

At SHAREomaha.org, you can find your fit and connect passion to action. Choose who to support and where to donate your time.

You’re 5 clicks away from making a difference at

SHAREomaha.org

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha donor recognition

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Volunteers at The Life House

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your money

• SWARTZBAUGH-FARBER & ASSOCIATES, INC.

THE myth OF done

“I AM SO BUSY.” This is a standard response if you ask a handful of people how work is going. For many, “busy” is a positive response. It implies they are needed at work and passionate about what they do. But for others, this busyness feels more like an anchor pulling them down, like they are running toward a finish line they can’t reach. It means they wake up each day feeling behind. Carrying a to-do list that doesn’t seem to be getting shorter can turn into feelings of guilt or shame, further negatively impacting the individual.

Those who feel this burden can try to turn this dread into excitement by practicing self-compassion and recalibrating priorities.

Those under a mountain of work without relief in sight should take time to strategize. It may sound counterintuitive to spend time planning, but this step will help you recalibrate priorities. First, look at each task on your list and evaluate the level of urgency. If something doesn’t need to be done this week, move it to another list and off your action items. Second, evaluate whether you can get help on the task. Do you need to be the person to complete the task, or can you delegate it to another team member? Often we are overwhelmed by responsibilities that could be moved off our plate for one reason or another.

Freeing up your time for urgent items that you must own can shrink your priorities and be used as a guide to help you determine what projects to take on in the future. This is especially important for “yes people” who tend to accept assignments without thinking twice.

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You cannot be all things to all people. When you are hitting it out of the park as a spouse or friend, you are likely not able to put in the same effort deana bennett at work and vice versa. You are but one person.

Instead of beating yourself up, try being generous with yourself. How can you reframe the situation to focus on your value instead of a deficit? The words you use to speak to yourself are very important and impact your actions. Look for opportunities to acknowledge your work. For example, what if you chose to celebrate your accomplishments at the end of each day? It is easy to overlook what you were able to get done when you feel like work is piling up.

No one wants to get up in the morning and dread going to work because of an intense pressure to catch up. Neither does anyone want to carry feelings of guilt or shame home, interrupting time you should be enjoying away from your desk. Your time is valuable and can be reclaimed by being gentle with yourself and taking another look at your priorities.

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.

mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

16/02/2022 2:24 AM

Mary Vandenack, while a lawyer by profession, has studied extensively in mind/body areas of fitness and wellness.

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.

THE value OF SAYING “i’m sorry” • A sincere apology can re-establish dignity for the person you hurt. For example, let’s say that you were dating someone because the person you really wanted wasn’t available, and that becomes obvious. An apology can help the person re-establish his or her dignity.

In the health care realm, 38 states have legislation that allow physicians to say, “I’m sorry,” so that statements of sympathy, condolence or compassion can be made by a health care worker without having an apology subject them to legal liability in a malpractice lawsuit. The idea behind “I’m sorry” legislation is that better communication improves relationships, and a patient or a patient’s family is more likely to have respect and appreciation for a physician who expresses an apology. Research supports that people file lawsuits when they haven’t received adequate information, acknowledgement or a simple apology.

• Apologizing can repair relationships by getting people to talk again. For example, maybe you said something inappropriate about someone at work and they overheard it or it was repeated to them. An apology is a first step to rebuilding the relationship. Of course, this will also likely require that the behavior does not happen again.

• Apologizing can let the person know that you are aware you broke a rule of social conduct. Perhaps you jumped into someone’s personal life and provided unsolicited advice and offended them or even sent them on the wrong path. Acknowledging that you disregarded appropriate boundaries might establish that you do understand appropriate boundaries and simply miss the mark occasionally.

• A sincere apology lets someone know that you aren’t proud of what you did. Perhaps you were struggling in a relationship and rather than talking to the other person, you ignored them, criticized them, or made them feel like it was about them. An apology lets them know you recognize that your action wasn’t the best way to handle the relationship.

Just as apologies can prevent lawsuits in the health care realm, apologies can help heal personal and work relationships. There is a lot of confusion about when we should apologize. There are those who under-apologize and those who over-apologize.

Some believe that you should only apologize when you are wrong. While I agree that we should not apologize in all situations, sometimes an apology can be appropriate simply as an acknowledgment that your actions may have hurt someone.

The value of apologies includes building respect, helping you move on, helping someone else move on, and establishing your integrity. Positive outcomes from a sincere apology have a positive effect in the following situations:

There are a lot of things people do, in an attempt to apologize, that really aren’t apologies. It is not an apology to say, “This is on you.” It’s not an apology to ignore someone. It’s not an apology to say, “I only said that because of what you did.” In a true apology, the person apologizing takes responsibility, acknowledges, validates the feelings of the other and seeks sincerely to mend the wound caused in the relationship.

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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mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

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planning matters

• WITH VW LAW

health care LAW trends In 2021, we had a new president enter office. That and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are continuing to have significant impact on health care law and policies.

COVID-19 response. As I write this, there are numerous reports or travel issues and cancellations resulting from the omicron variant of COVID-19. COVID-19 responses have included addressing travel bans, availability of at-home COVID-19 testing, vaccine and mask mandates, booster shots, treatments, and student loan moratoriums.

Fraud and abuse trends. In 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) finalized changes to Stark and anti-kickback regulations. New exceptions and safe harbors have been adopted that are intended to accelerate a transition to value-based reimbursements and coordinated care.

Movement toward racial equity in health outcomes. Research reflects significant disparities in health care outcomes in a variety of ways related to race. Hospitals, health care systems, and insurers mary e. vandenack are turning attention to the disparities in health care outcomes based on race and are seeking to address them through changes in leadership and workforce, training and education, data collection and use, and investing in the community.

Expansion of telehealth. CMS has created three categories on the physician fee schedule related to telehealth. The categories include codes that will become permanent, codes that will be removed when there is no further public health emergency and codes that are strictly temporary.

Intellectual property and health care.

Intellectual property refers to intangible rights protecting that which I created via human intelligence.

Intellectual property includes trademarks that identify a health care brand. Health care patents are common in the health care industry and foster health care research. Patents allow the inventor to produce and sell the invention without competition of a period of time.

Patents can cover both products and processes.

Cybersecurity. Cyberattacks on organizations have continued to escalate. It has become a matter of when and how you will be attacked rather than if. Health care targets include medical researchers, government entities, pharmaceutical corporations, hospital systems, physician practices, research facilities, surgery centers, and academics. While it is important to have an incident management plan, it is even more important to establish proactive and preventive policies. Hardware and software should be kept current.

Incoming messages from outside the organization should be flagged. Enforce policies for remote work and meetings. Require secure passwords and use multiple factor authentication. Track system activities.

Bar known dubious domains.

Behavioral health. Changes have been made to the handling of information for treatment of substance use disorder. These changes result from a series of modifications to Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records under 42 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) Part 2. The changes are controversial but intended to align with HIPAA (federal standards to protect the privacy of patient data).

Price transparency. Price transparency is an ongoing saga but very little true transformation has resulted. Consumers mostly remain in the dark with respect to the cost of health care services. Some states have begun to take action at the state level on price transparency.

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stephanie vondrak d.d.s.

impact!

• YOUR DENTAL HEALTH

MY unexpected journey TO WHAT IS possible

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.

This time of year, you may find yourself vowing

stephanie vondrak d.d.s. to become more disciplined to your personal

workout routine, to eating healthy or to another popular self-help goal. As we are still living within the pandemic, it is humbling that the way we approach such goals continues to be challenged, requiring us adapt and modify. But that’s life, isn’t it?

For me, however, this time of year feels different. My thoughts become continuous reminders of past events and current circumstances. I feel the need for reflection and gratitude when thinking about what I have, what I have been through, and what is yet to come.

Three years ago, my life changed abruptly. The circumstances and people I relied on as my everyday “normal” changed, seemingly overnight. It is surreal to think back on the events so swift and serious and how all of the destruction has shaped me into the person I am today.

Like waking up after a natural disaster to unrecognizable space, it was one of those “you had to be there to believe it” situations that, to my surprise, became the foundation for a new mindset in my life.

Mindset is our perception, our individual paradigm of how things “should” be, a jaded reality within our own minds. For me to move on from my personal experiences required a shift in understanding and in perceiving what a “new normal” could look like. Much like the pandemic, I had to look outside what I thought I knew, in order to find what was possible.

The irony is that as a heath-centered dentist, I have already been practicing these techniques with my patients for years. My philosophy of care is to impact the lives of others

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by helping them improve their overall health. My mindset is not based on specific technique or the pursuit of fancy technology, but in my approach to helping my patients, in my flexibility to individualized needs, and in my ability to “think outside the box” when needed.

To do this, I’ve always approached my time with patients differently than the status quo. My office is a place of discussion and co-diagnosis. I work one-on-one with individuals to map out a plan that is best for them, and I can safely say this approach offers a change in mindset for those who experience it.

In my upcoming columns, I will share stories of patients who trusted this process and allowed me to guide them through the rough waters of dental anxiety, discomfort and disappointment to find success in what is possible on the other side. From finding relief to unexplained TMJ pain to creating confidence in a new smile to opening airways for improved craniofacial growth, my goal is to describe what is possible with an open mindset, a new dental paradigm and an approach to modify, adapt and believe that the best is yet to come.

As for my personal journey, I have found freedom in letting go of what was and joy in adapting to what is. I feel more authentic and open to speak my mind and seek truth. I have become a better listener and, hopefully, a better doctor. And for all of this, for this unexpected journey, I am grateful.

I hope you enjoy the stories I will share in future columns, please know each individual is important to me and that their unique experiences hold a special place in my heart.

Until then…

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event galleries | charity support

updated local event info LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GIVING GUIDE 2022!

Are you hosting a virtual or on-location event this year?

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 2022!

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Photos courtesy Dwyer Photography

AKSARBEN BALL

2021

Aksarben Foundation Aksarben Ball

When: October 23, 2021 Where: CHI Health Center Omaha Why: Raising funds for Aksarben scholarships Special Guests: Honoring individuals and families across Nebraska and western Iowa for volunteerism and community service.

Event Planner: Aksarben Women’s Ball Committee 2020 WOMEN’S BALL COMMITTEE BACK ROW, L TO R: KATHRYN ANDERSON, CAROL WANG, SALLY ENGLISH,

MAKAYLA MCMORRIS, CASEY FEHRINGER, LORI KLEINSCHMIT. MIDDLE ROW, L TO R: JILL GOLDSTEIN, SHARLON RODGERS, DAWN GONZALES, SUSIE SHOEMAKER, CHLOE FIRESTONE. FRONT ROW, L TO R: DANA ZEISS, SHANNON HOY, SAM HOHMAN, 2021 WBC ADVISOR, LAURA ENENBACH, 2021 WBC CHAIR, ANNE MEDLOCK, CHRISTINE SCHULTE, SHELLY GROTE

Attendance: 2,100 Amount Raised: Aksarben awards over $1 million in scholarships each year through funds raised at the Aksarben Ball.

Event Summary: After a hiatus in 2020, the tradition of the Aksarben Ball was welcomed back with one of the largest crowds in Aksarben history.

Nearly 2,100 people attended the event commemorating that “Now is the Time” for togetherness and Nebraska pride.

Mission: Aksarben is unified network of business and community leaders committed to preserving and expanding prosperity in our heartland communities through advancements in education, workforce development, and civic projects born from effective private, public, and philanthropic partnerships.

About: The Aksarben Ball has been a beloved Nebraska tradition since Aksarben was founded in 1895.

For more information: www.aksarben.org

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2022 OMAHA SYMPHONY DEBUTANTE BALL COMMITTEE

2020 DEBUTANTES

2021 DEBUTANTE RASHELLE AMAO, DR. CAROLINE AMAO, MATTHEW AMAO

2021 DEBUTANTE DORI WATANABE, GORDON WATANABE, JOY WATANABE

2020 STAGS

OMAHA SYMPHONY PRESIDENT AND CEO

JENNIFER BOOMGAARDEN DAOUD

2021 BALL COMMITTEE CHAIR TERRI EISCHEID, 2020 STAG ALEXANDER EISCHEID,

CHRISTOPHER EISCHEID

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2021 STAG MICHAEL PRITZA, 2021 OMAHA SYMPHONY GUILD PRESIDENT

JUDY PRITZA, DR. RANDY PRITZA

mMAGAZINE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

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BALL RAISES

Photos courtesy Dwyer Photography (Michael & Gail Dwyer)

$540,000

Omaha Symphony

55th Annual Debutante Ball

When: December 27, 2021 Where: Embassy Suites La Vista

2021 DEBUTANTES

Why: The Debutante Ball is a benefit to support the educational and community outreach programs of the Omaha Symphony. Funds raised support a series of educational programs, including the Digital Classroom, and reach over 60,000 students from pre-K through high school. The Debutantes and Stags are graduated high school seniors and are selected based on their families’ support of the Omaha Symphony and their volunteer work in the community.

Attendance: 1,100: 900 in person at the Embassy and 200 who participated in our virtual live stream Amount Raised: $540,000 Event Summary: The 2021 Ball was the largest ball in its 55-year history, raising a record-breaking $540,000. More than 1,000 gathered to honor the families of our 157 Debs and Stags from the classes of 2020 and 2021. Guests enjoyed Omaha Steaks for dinner followed by dancing to Pam and the Pearls.

Red roses, vibrant red anthurium and evergreen accented floral arrangements by Aaron Carlson Design. Partners: Bridal Traditions, Borsheims, BUNGALOW/8, Dwyer Photography, Mr. Tuxedo

2021 STAGS

Mission: The Debutante Ball, an annual fundraiser for the Omaha Symphony, has honored and celebrated the volunteerism and philanthropy of many families in Omaha and the surrounding area for 55 years.

Ball proceeds provided much-needed funding for the Omaha Symphony’s educational and community outreach programs.

About: The Omaha Symphony Debutante Ball Committee is comprised of 16 women who volunteer their time for a three-year term to plan the annual Ball held each year on December 27. Funds raised at the Ball go to support educational programs of the Omaha Symphony. In 2020, the Symphony added the Digital Classroom, tripling its reach to more than 60,000 students in schools across the metro.

For more information: (402) 201-3052

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EVENT REGISTER from our participating VENT REGISTER partners in the Enonprofit COMPLETELY KIDS

PARTNERSHIP 4 KIDS

MAKE-A-WISH NEBRASKA

Completely KIDS℠ educates and empowers kids and families to create a safe, healthy, successful and connected community.

Partnership 4 Kids’ mission is to engage and inspire students from preschool to graduation, guiding them to success with individualized support, career exploration and scholarships.

Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Author Luncheon featuring 2020 & 2012 Paralympic Gold Medalist, NBC Sports Winter Paralympics Correspondent, Author and Equality Activist Mallory Weggemann

Hops & Grapes

Blue Jean Ball: When Stars Align

Date: !PRIL , 2022

Date: April 2, 2022

Event Description/Theme: This event, presented by HDR, and chaired by Tricia & David LeCureux, will feature unlimited tastings of Napa Valley wines, local brews and spirits, plus live music from the Shenanigans. Guests can also participate in interactive games, win prizes, explore extraordinary auction and raffle packages, and most importantly, become part of the P4K team as we work together to provide long term support for life-long success for Omaha youth!

Event Description/Theme: Join Make-A-Wish Nebraska as we celebrate “When Stars Align” at our annual Blue Jean Ball.

Spend the evening helping make local wishes come true! Take part in our silent and live auctions and hear how wishes have proven physical and emotional benefits that give children with critical illnesses hope and a reason to comply with their medical treatments.

Date: -ARCH , 2022 Event Description/Theme: Mallory Weggemann has been a competitive swimmer since age seven. An injury at age 18 left her paraplegic with loss of movement from her abdomen down. While many things changed at that moment, Mallory’s love of swimming never waned. She discovered Paralympic Swimming shortly after her injury, where she saw a path forward and her love of swimming became her sanctuary. Over the past 14 years, Mallory has gone on to become a 3x Paralympian, 5x Medalist (3 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze) and set 15 World Records, 34 American Records. She also established herself as a leader outside the pool as a disability advocate, author, motivational speaker and CoCEO of a Social Impact Agency and Production Studio. Her book, “LIMITLESS The Power of Hope and Resilience to Overcome Circumstance,” which tells her remarkable story of resilience and never giving up on your dream, was released in March 2021.

Location: Hilton Omaha • 1001 Cass Street Time: 11:30am – 1:30pm Ticket Prices: $75 • $50 Young Professional Attire: Business Event Contact: events@completelykids.org Completely KIDS 2566 St. Mary’s Ave. • Omaha, NE 68105 (402) 397-5809 Email: events@completelykids.org

Proceeds will benefit Partnership 4 Kids, a local nonprofit serving nearly 3,100 Omaha students living in under-resourced communities, with a mission of keeping them engaged in school, and pursuing higher education.

Location: The Hilton Downtown Omaha 1001 Cass St. Time: 7pm

Location: Embassy Suites in La Vista 12520 Westport Pkwy, La Vista, NE Times: • 6pm- Silent Auction • 7:30pm- Dinner and Program Honorary Chairs: Jon and Julie Smith Event Chairs: Candi Kirkwood

Ticket Prices: • $100 • Patron Ticket $150 www.p4k.org/events for more ticket information

Ticket Price: • $150 per person • $1,500 corporate table

Attire: Casual

Attire: Blue Jeans

Event Contact: Cheryl Murray (402) 930-3082 • cmurray@p4k.org

Event Contact: Brigette Young, President/CEO byoung@nebraska.wish.org • (402) 333-8999

Other Fundraising Events: • Goal Achievement Honors Celebration Holland Performing Arts Center – May 25, 2022 • Swing 4 Kids –Tiburon - July 25, 2022 • Omaha Marathon The Capitol District - September 18, 2022

Other Fundraising Events: • Lincoln’s Wish Ball – February 19, 2022 • Omaha Wine, Whiskey, and Wishes May 12, 2022 • Kearney Evening of Wishes – August 18, 2022

Partnership 4 Kids 1004 Farnam St., Ste. 200 • Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 930-3082 Email: cmurray@p4k.org

Make-A-Wish Nebraska 1005 S 107th Ave., Ste. 102 • Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 333-8999 Email: emarston@nebraska.wish.org

p4k.org

wwwwish org/nebraska

completelykids.org/authorluncheon

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2021 Fall/Winter edition of The Giving Guide & Event Book

AMERICAN MIDWEST BALLET

STEPHEN CENTER

BOYS TOWN

Your resident professional dance company, AMB provides cultural enrichment through programs of the highest quality: breathtaking performances, inspiring education, and uplifting community engagement.

Stephen Center partners with the community, families and individuals to overcome homelessness, poverty and addiction.

Changing the way America cares for children and families.

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Swing, Swing, Swing!

VinNEBRASKA

2022 Booster Banquet

Date: April 2 & 9, 2022

Date: April 8-9, 2022

Date: April 26, 2022

Event Description/Theme: Rediscover the spirit of a time like no other – when young G.I. Joes and Rosie the Riveters gave their all to save the world, then threw away their cares to the beat of big bands and the exhilaration of swing dancing. You’ll be swept away as a guy, a girl, and their friends flirt, kick up their heels, fall in love, and most of all... Swing, Swing, Swing! Created by celebrated Chicago choreographer and showman Harrison McEldowney and featuring live big band music, this exuberantly unforgettable work was American Midwest Ballet’s very first production. Now, it’s back to help us all rediscover the joy of dance... of music... and of swing!

Event Description/Theme: VinNEBRASKA is back in-person to benefit Stephen Center in 2022! Festivities kick off Friday, April 8, 2022 with a Winemakers’ Reception and Gourmet Dinner. Guests will enjoy a multi-course meal with paired wines, and silent and live auction items will be available. A featured vintner will be seated at your table. Public Wine Tasting and Grand Auction takes place on Saturday, April 9. Attendees will sample wines and bid during the silent auction on a vast selection of gift-items and wine collectibles. This year includes a sit-down dinner and program. Live auction items include spectacular vacation getaways!

Event Description/Theme: Announcing Purple Heart recipient and Paralympian Melissa Stockwell as this year's speaker; please join us for this worthwhile cause.

Many children who arrive at Boys Town have never participated in organized sports.

They haven’t had the opportunity to experience being part of a team or feeling a sense of accomplishment that comes from working together to reach a goal. Recognizing the tremendous benefit of participating in sports for the youth in our care, the Boys Town Boosters were formed to help ensure that any child who wanted to play sports could do so.

Location: • Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center 1001 S 6th St. • Council Bluffs, IA 51501 • Orpheum Theater 409 S 16th St. • Omaha, NE 68102

Times: • The Winemakers Reception and Gourmet Dinner Friday, April 8 • 5:30 – 10pm • Public Wine Tasting and Grand Auction Saturday, April 9 • 5pm

Time: 7:30pm

Event Chairs: Beth Settles and Debbie Slattery

Attire: Business

Ticket Price: • Single Tickets starting at $25 • Group Tickets available

Ticket Prices: Tickets for Saturday’s event are $175. Visit www.vinnebraska.com to purchase.

Silent Auction: Yes Oral Auction: Yes

Attire: Friday – Cocktail Attire Saturday – Business Casual

Event Contact: Diane Achilles (531) 355-7952 • diane.achilles@boystown.org

Event Contact: Teri Corcoran Teri.Corcoran@stephencenter.org

Other Fundraising Events: • 2022 Memorial Day Run – May 30, 2022 • 2022 Blue Water Bash – July 30, 2022 • 2022 Light the Town – December 4, 2022

Event Contact: American Midwest Ballet (712) 890-5590 • amballet.org/tickets Other Fundraising Events: • The Nutcracker Gala 2022 - Orpheum Theater American Midwest Ballet Erika Overturff 1001 South 6th St., • Council Bluffs, IA 51501 (712) 890-5590 Email: info@amballet.org amballet.org

Location: Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District • 222 N 10th St., Omaha, NE

Other Fundraising Events: • Omaha Hunger Experience – November 2022 Stephen Center, Inc. 2723 Q St. • Omaha, NE 68107 (402) 715-5442 Email: marketing@stephencenter.org

Location: Embassy Suites Conference Center – La Vista Time: 5:30pm – 9pm Ticket Prices: $125 (sponsorship opportunities available)

Boys Town 14100 Crawford St. • Boys Town, NE 68010 (531) 355-1991 Email: helpkids@boystown.org www.boystown.org

stephencenter.org

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EVENT REGISTER from our participating VENT REGISTER partners in the Enonprofit THE SALVATION ARMY

KIDS CAN COMMUNITY CENTER

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF OMAHA

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church.

Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

At Kids Can Community Center our mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences.

We build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter.

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon

Can Do Awards Luncheon

Women’s Power Luncheon

Date: May 3, 2022

Date: May 5, 2022

Date: May 6, 2022

Event Description/Theme: The 24th annual D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon will honor 15 deserving Nebraska high school seniors with a $10,000 academic scholarship each. Funds raised from the luncheon support Salvation Army programs that help children living in poverty in the Omaha metro. Peggy and David Sokol partnered with The Salvation to establish the D.J.’s Hero Awards in memory of their son, D.J., in 1999.

Event Description/Theme: The Can Do awards celebrate the “can do” attitude in our community. Having a “can do” attitude makes things happen, breaks down barriers and finds resolution to issues facing our community to make it a better place. At the luncheon, we honor those in our community that exemplify this mindset through our Can Do Awards.

Event Description/Theme: The Women’s Power Luncheon is the perfect kick-off to Habitat Omaha’s 2022 Women Build.

It provides a venue for powerful Habitat Omaha advocates, both women and men, to rally around the mission of the Women Build: to recruit, educate and inspire women to build and advocate for affordable housing in our community. More than 400 women volunteers, many whom attend the luncheon, generously give their time to make the Women Build house a reality.

Location: CHI Health Center – Omaha

Location: Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District, 222 N. 10th St, Omaha, NE

Location: Hilton Omaha Time: 11:30am – 1pm

Time: 11:45am

Time: 11:30am–1pm Ticket Price: $75 Ticket Prices: • $85 (1 Ticket) • $850 (Table of 10)

Honorary Chairman: Gov. Pete Ricketts Attire: Business Casual Ticket Prices: • $150 Individual • $1,500 Table Sponsorship Attire: Business Attire Oral Auction: Yes Event Contact: Todd Andrews Todd.Andrews@usc.salvationarmy.org

The Salvation Army Todd Andrews, Director of Integrated Communications 10755 Burt St. • Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 898-7700 E-mail: Todd.Andrews@usc.salvationarmy.org

Raffle: Yes Attire: Business Casual Event Contact: Cliff McEvoy (402) 731-6988 ext. 212 • cmcevoy@kidscan.org

Event Contact: Becky Vinton (402) 884-2499 • bvinton@habitatomaha.org

Other Fundraising Events: • Omaha Mom Prom – February 26, 2022 • Do Good Days – May 10-12, 2022 • Neighborhood Night Out – August 2, 2022

Other Fundraising Events: • Habitat Omaha Golf Tournament – June 2, 2022 • Brew Haha – September 8, 2022

Kids Can Community Center 4860 Q St. • Omaha, NE 68117 (402) 731-6988 Email: cmcevoy@kidscan.org

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha 1701 N 24th St. • Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 457-5657

kidscan.org

habitatomaha.org

salarmyomaha.org

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2021 edition of The Giving Guide & Event Book VENT RFall/Winter EGISTER E

CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE

CHILDREN’S SQUARE U.S.A.

MIDLANDS HUMANE SOCIETY

Responding to the cry of a child.

To teach, every day, life skills and the values necessary for a successful life– one full of Caring, Contribution and Commitment.

To protect and nurture companion animals and enrich the lives of people who love them.

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Cabaret 2022

Chip in for Children Golf Event

Midlands Humane Society Annual Gala

Date: May 7, 2022

Date: May 12, 2022

Event Description/Theme: Cabaret 2022 – A night of comedy to benefit Child Saving Institute’s (CSI) services for the prevention, intervention and healing of child abuse, neglect and trauma. Come and enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner and hilarity for a great cause!

Event Description/Theme: This event helps us raise additional funds that support programs for vulnerable children who are in or near crisis. Proceeds from this event help fund our behavior health, crisis services, education, treatment programs and special projects. We currently serve over 1,000 children and families each day in our many programs in Iowa and Nebraska.

Date: May 13, 2022 *Watch our website and social media for the most up-to-date details.

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel and Conference Center 12520 Westport Pkwy.

Times: • 6pm – Cocktail Hour • 7pm – Dinner & Event Program • 8:30pm – Entertainment Event Chairs: Adrienne & Patrick Fay Gina & Nick Patrick Ticket Prices: • $175/$300 • Table sponsorships available Attire: Business Casual Raffle: Yes Event Contact: Anna Dwyer Events and Projects Coordinator (402) 504-3664 • adwyer@childsaving.org Other Fundraising Events: • PurseOnalities – Fall 2022 • Touch-A-Truck – Fall 2022 • Substitute Santa – December 2022

Event Description/Theme: Meet cat and dog ambassadors at Midlands Humane Society’s largest fundraiser of the year.

This family-friendly event is a can’t-miss! There will be hundreds of silent and live auction items to bid on and activities to keep everyone busy from beginning to end.

Location: Top Golf Omaha 908 N 102nd St. • Omaha, NE 68144

Location: Mid-America Center 1 Arena Way • Council Bluffs, IA 51501

Time: 5pm

Times: • 5pm – Doors Open • 6:30pm – Dinner

Ticket Prices: • $100 Individual • $600 Team (6 people) • $1,000 Corporate Sponsorship Attire: Casual Event Contact: Moira Mangiameli • (712) 322-3700 mmangiameli@childrenssquare.org

Event Chairs: Linda and Ed Kemp Co Chairs: Alex & Jamie Gum Ticket Prices: • $55 per seat • $550 per table • Event sponsorships are available

Other Fundraising Events: • Jason Awards – November 3, 2022 • Giving Tuesday – November 30, 2022

Attire: Business Casual

Children’s Square U. S. A. Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (712) 322-3700 E-mail: visitorcenter@childrenssquare.org

Other Fundraising Events: • Wag-A-Grams – Monday, February 14, 2022 • Wags & Wheels Car Show Sunday, August 28, 2022

childrenssquare.org

Midlands Humane Society 1020 Railroad Ave. • Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (712) 396-2264 Email: knelson@midlandshumanesociety.org

Child Saving Institute 4545 Dodge St. • Omaha, NE 68132 (402) 553-6000 Email: csiinfo@childsaving.org

Event Contact: Kori Nelson Director of Development and Marketing

midlandshumanesociety.org

childsaving.org

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EVENT REGISTER from our participating nonprofit partners in the NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL | OMAHA

PROJECT HOUSEWORKS

The Nebraska Humane Society saves, protects, and enriches the lives of animals in the communities we serve.

Dedicated to bringing volunteers together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person services to the community’s most vulnerable neighbors in need, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or age.

Providing free safety solutions and affordable housing for seniors and families in our community.

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Featured Event:

Black Tie & Tails

13th Annual Strawberry Brunch

Brush Up

Date: June 10, 2022

Date: June 11, 2022

Date: August 20, 2022

Event Description/Theme: This gala puts the “fun” in fundraiser. It’s hosted by the NHS guild, “Friends Forever”, and they know how to throw a party! Black Tie and Tails combines heartwarming stories, VIP (Very Important Pet) appearances along with a spectacular silent auction, raise the paddle, cocktail hour and dinner, all to benefit the animals. Come commune with other pet lovers, benefit the cause, and help us spread the word about the great work we do. Need we say more?

Event Description/Theme: This much-loved event is now in its 13th year!

The Strawberry Brunch supports both the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s Food Pantry and the emergency financial assistance fund. When in person, this event offers host-themed tables where guests enjoy brunch and view the tablescapes for a lovely morning with family and friends. When virtual, we offer a recorded speaker and opportunities to give online.

Event Description/Theme: The Brush Up event is a free exterior paint service for senior homeowners provided by corporate sponsors and volunteer teams. In 2021, over 730 volunteers joined forces to paint 36 homes across the Omaha-Metro area! That would not have been possible without support from 38 corporate partners.

Location: A View West Shores 111 S. 243rd St., Waterloo, NE 68069 Time: 6pm – 9pm Co-Chairs: Taylor Cochrane and Leigh Brassette Ticket Prices: • $175 - $225, Sponsorships available Attire: Cocktail attire Silent Auction: Yes Event Contact: Gordon Krentz gkrentz@nehumanesociety.org Other Fundraising Events: • Walk for the Animals September 25, 2022 – NHS Meadow • Whine Fest – TBD

Location: Douglas and Sarpy Counties

Location: Please visit our website svdpomaha.com for more information on this event.

Time: 9am – 4pm

Time: 11am – 12pm

Attire: Work/Paint Clothes

Event Chairs: TBD*

Event Contact: Sara Sabaliauskas (402) 965-9201 sarasab@projecthouseworks.org

Attire: Casual Event Contact: info@svdpomaha.com Other Fundraising Events: • Stuff the Bus – check WOWT for dates • Annual Coat Drives/Giveaway – Fall 2022 Society of St. Vincent de Paul Omaha 71715 Izard St., Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 779-8499 Email: info@svdpomaha.com

Support Requested: • Corporate Sponsored Volunteer Teams

Project Houseworks 2316 S 24th St. • Omaha, NE 68108 (402) 965-9201 Email: brushup@projecthouseworks.org www.projecthouseworks.org

svdpomaha.com

Nebraska Humane Society Pam Wiese 8929 Fort St. • Omaha, NE 68134 (402) 905-3470 Email: pwiese@nehumanesociety.org nehumanesociety.org

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COMING THIS SUMMER! THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GIVING! 12 MONTHS OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

The Giving Guide & Event Book 2022 • Nonprofit Profiles & Signature Events

something DIFFERENT! something NEW!

• Corporate Giving Stories • Faces of Philanthropy • Heartland Heroes: Recognizing volunteers, businesses & those making difference in the Omaha metro!

Email us at CONNECT@SpiritofOmaha.com Email Subject: “Something NEW 2022!”

PUBLISHER ANDREA “ANDEE” HOIG

WHAT ELSE IS

POSSIBLE IN 2022?

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEEING RED?

March 6

YOU’RE SEEING FEATURED EVENTS

MEYER FOUNDATION FOR DISABILITIES Oak View Mall • 3111 Oak View Dr., Omaha (402) 979-6491 | www.mfdisabilities.org

18th Annual Walk & Roll for Disabilities

from our partners in The Giving Guide & Event Book Spring 2021* and our Comunity Engagement partners.

To learn more email CONNECT@SpiritofOmaha.com 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

March 8 Darci Lynne ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S 16th St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

March 8

March 1 - 6

OHB 100 Year Anniversary Celebration

2022 Omaha Film Festival

OHB - OMAHA HOME FOR BOYS CHI Health Center Omaha • 455 N 10th St., Omaha $75 Young Professional • $125 Individual | (402) 457-7000 | www.ohb.org/events/100

OMAHA FILM FESTIVAL 2626 Harney St., Omaha Cost: visit website | (402) 415-6272 | www.omahafilmfestival.org

March 15

March 2 The Story of Afro-Colombians Through Dance with Sankofa Danzafro HIGHLANDER ACCELERATOR 2120 N 30th St., Omaha www.ticketomaha.com

Heroes in the Heartland AMERICAN RED CROSS Location TBD $75 | (402) 343-7700 | www.redcross.org

March 18, May 13 All Care Health Center Blood Drive with the American Red Cross ALL CARE HEALTH CENTER

March 3 Rally for Kids LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES DJ Sokol Arena • Creighton University • 124 S 24th St., Ste. 230 Omaha www.LFSneb.org

902 S. 6th St., Council Bluffs (712) 325-1990 | www.allcarehealthcenter.org

March 3

30th Annual Irish Fest Gala

March 19

Celebrity Chef

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OMAHA Marriott Downtown Capitol District, Omaha (402) 554-0520 | www.ccomaha.org

FOOD BANK FOR THE HEARTLAND 10525 J St., Omaha Cost: visit website | (402) 331-1213 | www.FoodBankHeartland.org

March 19

March 5

Heather McMahan: The Farewell Tour

Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth DOLLAR ENERGY FUND 1920 S. 67th St., Omaha (800) 683-7036 | www.heatthestreetsomaha.org | www.dollarenergy.org/need-help/nebraska

HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

March 20

March 4

Hasan Minhaj The King’s Jester

Sankofa Danzafro

HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S 16th St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

March 22

March 5

Author Luncheon featuring 2020 & 2012 Paralympic Gold Medalist, NBC Sports

#IMOMSOHARD: The Getaway Tour

Winter Paralympics Correspondent, Author and Equality Activist Mallory Weggemann

ORPHEUM THEATER 409 S 16th St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

COMPLETELY KIDS Hilton Omaha Downtown • 1001 Cass St., Omaha $75 • $50 Young Professional | (402) 397-5809 | www.completelykids.org/events/author-luncheon

March 5 - July 3

March 24 - April 17

Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition

King Lear by William Shakespeare

DURHAM MUSEUM 801 S 10th St., Omaha (402) 444-5071 | www.durhammuseum.org

BLUEBARN THEATRE 1106 S. 10th St., Omaha (402) 345-1576 | www.bluebarn.org/tickets 44

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS March 25

April 1-2

Improbable Ascent with Paraclimber Maureen Beck

Grief Support Group Facilitator Training

HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

THE COLLECTIVE FOR HOPE (GRIEF’S JOURNEY, HEALING EMBRACE AND TED E. BEAR HOLLOW)

March 25-27

7811 Farnam Dr., Omaha (402) 502-2773 | www.thecollectiveforhope.org

Jersey Boys

April 1

LIED CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS N 12th St. & R St., Lincoln www. tickets.liedcenter.org/events

Hops & Grapes PARTNERSHIP 4 KIDS The Hilton Downtown Omaha • 1001 Cass St. $100 • Patron $150 (402) 930-3082 | www.p4k.org/events

March 25 WMC Conference WOMEN ON A MISSION FOR CHANGE Bellevue University • 1000 Galvin Rd. South, Bellevue (402) 403-9621 | www.womenonamissionomaha.org

April 1 - 30 Pinwheels for Prevention PROJECT HARMONY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER Citywide, Omaha (402) 595-1326 | www.ProjectHarmony.com

March 26 The Gathering CUES FUND Omaha Marriott Downtown, Omaha (402) 451-5755 | www.cuesschools.org

April 1 Savor the Night JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OMAHA TBD, Omaha (402) 493-8818 | www.jlomaha.org

March 27 Art & Soup VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION Omaha Design Center • 1502 Cuming St., Omaha $100 – Patron Party • $50 – General Admission | (402) 342-5566 | vnatoday.org/artandsoup

through April 1

March 27

MEMORIES FOR KIDS (402) 889-5797 | www.memoriesforkids.org

Chicken Dinner and Silent Auction

Tribute Campaign 2022 - Honor those that inspire and influence

April 1

UNDERWOOD DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS 300 2nd Ave. Underwood, IA | (402) 981-5973 | www.underwood.dollarsforscholars.org

Wine Women & Shoes CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION Champions Run Omaha 13800 Eagle Run Dr., Omaha (402) 955-6851 | events@childrensomaha.org

March 30 Las Cafeteras HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

April 2 2022 JDRF Promise Gala

March 31

JDRF NEBRASKA-IOWA CHAPTER CHI Health Center • 455 N 10th St., Omaha (402) 397-2873 | www.jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa

Comedy For Change 2022! Laugh Your Ca$h Off! THE SET ME FREE PROJECT A View on State • 13467 State St., Omaha (402) 521-3080 | www.setmefreeproject.net

April 2 Big Basketball Bash

April 1

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE MIDLANDS TBD, Omaha | (402) 330-2449 | www.bbbsomaha.org

Vita: An Evening for Bethlehem House BETHLEHEM HOUSE Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District • 222 N 10th St., Omaha (402) 502-9224 | www.BethlehemHouseOmaha.org

April 2 Blue Jean Ball: When Stars Align MAKE-A-WISH NEBRASKA Embassy Suites La Vista • 12520 Westport Pkwy., La Vista $150 per person • $1,500 corporate table | (402) 333-8999 | www.wish.org/nebraska

April 1 13th Annual Bats Over Omaha Bat Release NEBRASKA WILDLIFE REHAB, INC. Location TBD* FREE and family-friendly | (402) 234-2473

April 2, 9 Swing, Swing, Swing!

April 1 - 30

AMERICAN MIDWEST BALLET Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, Council Bluffs | Orpheum Theater, Omaha Single tickets starting at $25, group tickets available (712) 890-5590 | www.amballet.org

Common Senses Festival AUTISM ACTION PARTNERSHIP (402) 763-8830 | www.commonsensesfestival.com | www.autismaction.org 46

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• mMagazine

Email Subject: “Something NEW 2022!”

something DIFFERENT? something NEW?

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SAVE THE Date!

Presented in collaboration with SHAREOmaha and our Community Engagement Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS April 5, 6, 12, 13

April 16

Examining Unconscious Bias Program

Kathleen Madigan - Do You Have Any Ranch?

ICAN - INSTITUTE FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENT NEEDS TBD, Omaha (402) 392-0746 | www.icanleaders.org/programs/examining-unconscious-bias

WHISKEY ROADHOUSE-HORSESHOE COUNCIL BLUFFS CASINO 2701 23rd Ave., Council Bluffs www.ticketmaster.com

April 8

April 21

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies

HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha www.ticketomaha.com

Babywearing Education & Lending Library - APRIL Thursday Meeting NEBRASKA BABYWEARING ALLIANCE (NEBA) 510 N 93rd St., Omaha www.NEBA.myturn.com

April 7 Madonnapalooza

April 21

MADONNA SCHOOL & COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES A View on State • 13467 State St., Omaha (402) 556-1883 | www.madonnaschool.org

Imagine Banquet with Rev Franklin Graham ASSURE WOMEN’S CENTER CHI Health Center Exhibit Hall • 455 N 10th St., Omaha (402) 390-9700 | www.firststeptolife.com

April 8 Auction Dinner Gala Night CALISTUS MULTIPLE MYELOMA FOUNDATION Thompson Alumni Center 6705 Dodge St., Omaha (402) 686-3559 | www.calistusfoundation.org

April 22 John Mulaney from Scratch CHI HEALTH CENTER OMAHA 455 N. 10th St., Omaha $46.50-$136.50 | www.ticketmaster.com

April 8 Night of Endless Stars Gala ENDLESS JOURNEY HOSPICE A View on State • 13467 State St., Omaha (402) 800-8145 | www.endlessjourneyhospice.com

April 23

April 7

NEBRASKA BABYWEARING ALLIANCE (NEBA) 510 N 93rd St, Omaha www.NEBA.myturn.com

Babywearing Education & Lending Library - APRIL Saturday Meeting

Trivia Night (21+) - 2000s Theme OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO AND AQUARIUM Scott Aquarium Conference Center www.omahazoo.com

April 22, 24 Eugene Onegin

April 9 VinNEBRASKA STEPHEN CENTER Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District • 222 N 10th St., Omaha $175 • visit www.vinnebraska.com to purchase | (402) 715-5442 | www.stephencenter.org

OPERA OMAHA Orpheum Theater • 409 S 16th St., Omaha (402) 346-7372 | www.operaomaha.org

April 24

April 9

Anjelah Johnson-Reyes

The Heart of Camp Gala

1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com

CAROL JOY HOLLING CAMP, CONFERENCE AND RETREAT CENTER A View West Shores 110 S 243rd St., Waterloo (402) 944-2544 | www.caroljoyholling.org/gala

April 26 2022 Booster Banquet

April 14-15 PROJECT HARMONY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER CHI Health Center • 455 N 10th St., Omaha $250 | (402) 595-1326 | www.projectharmony.com/events/speaking-of-children

BOYS TOWN Embassy Suites Conference Center – La Vista 12520 Westport Pkwy., La Vista $125 (sponsorship opportunities available) | (531) 355-1991 | www.boystown.org

April 15

April 28

OPS Teacher R&R

Birds & Beer: A Warehouse Beer Fest

OMAHA PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION Omaha Public Schools Foundation Office • 3861 Farnam St., Omaha invitations to be sent via EventBrite requesting RSVP to this free event (402) 502-3003 | www.opsfpossible.org

ANGELS AMONG US Patriot Services • 505 Crown Point Ave, Omaha (402) 934-0999 | www. myangelsamongus.org

Speaking of Children Luncheon & Conference

April 28

April 16

Bread for the Journey Spring Table ’22

Chelsea Handler: Vaccinated and Horny

BREAD FOR THE JOURNEY OMAHA Field Club of Omaha • 3615 Woolworth Ave., Omaha (402) 709-0048 | www.breadforthejourneyomaha.org

HOLLAND CENTER 1200 Douglas St., Omaha (402) 345-0606 | www.ticketomaha.com 48

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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

P.O. Box 241611 Omaha, NE 68124

PAID OMAHA, NE PERMIT NO. 2013

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