BFF is dedicated to building community through arts engagement.
We Advocate for the Arts through Education, Inclusion, Opportunity, and Unique Experiences (AEIOU).
We provide a social infrastructure that is integral to the community’s well being and supportive of artists, businesses, residents, commerce, and the environment through unique & interactive programming.
Our programs and projects include (1) First Friday: a culmination of all BFF programming, bringing area businesses, artists, and community members together through arts engagement on the first Friday of each month, year-round, (2) Petshop: a shared creative space in Benson, housing affordable artist studios, community galleries, event space, offices, and is home to BFF's headquarters, (3) MaMO Gallery (pronounced "May-MOH"): a semi-trailer-turned-gallery that travels throughout the region March-December, partnering with various communities and organizations, and hosts interdisciplinary programming, artist residencies, and immersive installations, (4) TeenLine + BFF Kids: these programs work with area youth, schools, and educational partners. 2022 has seen the addition of a shared community education space open to area organizations, educators, and workshops for all-ages, (5) Green Team & (6) Public Art promote environmental sustainability and beautification in our community, (7) Inclusion efforts: specific budget lines to support BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, refugee/immigrant artists and a DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility) Chairperson on the Board, and other programs including (8) artist studio management, (9) the new BFF Gallery at 5901 Maple St., (10) "Trudy's" artist studios and TeenLine headquarters (2714 N 60th), (11) BFFzz quarterly publication, and (12) managing the Benson Creative District.
- BFF paid ARTISTS total of $149,552.88 in 2022 51% of all expenses!!
- At the hands of 50+ volunteers, BFF Omaha's operations average 350+ in-kind hours each month!
- BFF is for artists, by artists - our organization is made up of 91% Artists!