Stories

This story is shared by The Public Good Projects in Partnership with The Well Being Partners.

In these challenging times, taking care of our emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing has never been more important. Almost 40 percent of Americans are now showing signs of clinical anxiety or depression. In Nebraska, that number is 30 percent.
 

Story shared by Adrielle Griffin, Completely KIDS Chief Marketing and Development Officer
 
When the COVID-19 pandemic washed over the Omaha metro area in mid-March, much was unknown. Many, including those at Completely KIDS, thought they might be shut down for a week or so and then life would return to some sense of normalcy. The Completely KIDS staff realized quickly that would not be the case and jumped into action.
 

by Leo Adam Biga

*Note: Photos shared in this story were taken prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
Restoring Dignity depends heavily on volunteers and donors to ensure refugees have a decent place to live.
 
Restoring Dignity brings refugee families furniture and household items to transform a living space into a home where they can thrive. Their work also includes teaching basic cleaning skills and providing critical housing advocacy for refugees.
 

As we are experiencing an unprecedented public health crisis, one SHARE@Home volunteer opportunity is providing a chance to come together to reduce the stigma that often surrounds mental health.

This article is the first in a new series. SHARE Omaha is pleased to collaborate with Western Iowa Development Association (WIDA) to feature rural Iowans who are doing good. Learn more about WIDA.

Though it’s a short acronym, CASA volunteers play a significant role in the lives of many in Southwest Iowa. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) do the unseen work to ensure the best interests of vulnerable youth in our community, work that deserves to be recognized.

Jesi, Aaron and little Dax moved to Omaha during shutdowns due to COVID-19. Within minutes of speaking with Jesi, her generous spirit shines through. It comes as no surprise that during this time of isolation, she and her family are choosing to get to know the metro by asking, “How can we safely give back to our new community?”

Jesi found a creative way to do good:

Their team of three prepared dozens of sack lunches for Open Door Mission, spreading love to their new neighbors from a safe distance.

The Lifting Up Do-Gooders column, written by SHARE Omaha executive director Marjorie Maas, runs bi-monthly in metroMAGAZINE. See the original publication of this article here on page 38.

Who is a Do-Gooder? 

Either you are one, or you know a few.

SHARE Omaha acquires Share Good – a high-tech advantage for new philanthropy
 
SHARE Omaha announces the acquisition of Share Good LLC, a branded community engagement platform powered by web-based technology. It connects new donors and volunteers to nonprofit causes for communitywide impact on quality of life.
 

Written by Leo Adam Biga

Higher ed administration veteran Stephanie Kidd has found herself unemployed during the pandemic. Through this struggle, the Junior League of Omaha member has discovered meaning as a volunteer for the Heart Ministry Center pantry. She leads JLO volunteers working the 24th and Binney drive-thru on Friday mornings.
 
Kidd shared what the experience means to her in a Facebook post: