Reflecting on a Year of Positive Change at Changemakers

On October 17, we had the privilege of hosting Changemakers, our yearly gathering to celebrate those who make a positive impact on the lives of Nebraska’s families and children. This event allowed us to shine a light on numerous individuals, organizations, and entities dedicated to this cause.

Our sold-out event was a testament to the commitment of our state’s children and families. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors who made this event possible, including the following:

• Sunny Durham Family Foundation
• Weitz Investment Management
• Buffett Early Childhood Fund
• Mackintosh Family Foundation
• Doug Christensen
• Lincoln Community Foundation
• Union Bank & Trust
• Duncan Aviation
• Ho-Chunk Incorporated
• Buffett Early Childhood Institute
• Kotula Family Foundation
• MH Hospitality

The day started with a warm welcome from our emcee William Padmore who welcomed our guests and invited Mary Jo Pankoke, Nebraska Children President and CEO, to the stage. In her opening remarks, she highlighted the remarkable work made possible by those who invest in the future of Nebraska’s children and families.

Some of those highlights included:

• Sixpence celebrated it’s 15^th year, providing early childhood support to 25 school districts in 42 counties and serving over 2,000 of Nebraska’s most vulnerable infants and toddlers.
  
• Sixpence Childcare Partnerships, a collaboration of school districts and local childcare organizations, served 30 childcare centers and 33 family childcare homes in 9 school districts with coaching support, professional development, and educational and financial resources to increase the quality of care for infants and toddlers.
  
• The Rooted in Relationships team garnered attention at the state, national, and international levels for their early childhood mental health work.
  
• The Parents Interacting with Infants (PIWI) program was translated into Spanish and is now being delivered by bilingual trainers, further expanding accessibility to the program.
  
• Communities for Kids is now active in 63 communities across 55 Nebraska counties, expanding early care and education capacity.
  
• Beyond School Bells promoted the importance of quality childcare outside of “school bells,” which includes the time before and after school and the summer months. Two convenings included the ELO Innovation Invitational at UNL and #GetConnected2023 in Omaha, with over 450 attending.
  
• Another highlight of Beyond School Bells is the work with the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) on the ESSER III grant – allowing the continuation of programming in high need, underserved communities across the state via a $11M investment in public funds.
  
• Camp Catch-Up celebrated 20 years of reuniting siblings separated through foster care placements. Camp Catch-Up is offered 100% free of cost to campers.
  
• The Connected Initiative Coaching program assisted 2,054 young people, including 485 who were pregnant and/or parenting, in the last year.
  
• 311 young people received an Education and Training Voucher for postsecondary tuition, fees, and books.

Mary Jo was later joined by Jennifer Skala, Executive Vice President at Nebraska Children, on stage to present the 2023 Grace Abbott Award. Grace Abbott was a remarkable social worker and advocate who dedicated her life to enhancing the welfare of children and vulnerable populations.

Mary Jo and Jennifer were proud to present the 2023 Grace Abbott Award to colleague, and friend, Susanne Shore, a tireless advocate and community leader renowned for her commitment to the well-being of Nebraskans. Susanne’s commitment to Nebraska, her work with CASA, and her involvement with Bring Up Nebraska were recognized as outstanding contributions during the presentation. Bring Up Nebraska is a statewide prevention partnership that supports local community collaboratives dedicated to keeping children safe, supporting strong parents, and addressing challenges before they become crises.

Nebraska Children applauds Susanne for her commitment to social justice, advocacy, and community betterment. Her influence, like Grace Abbott’s, will continue to inspire future generations.

The event also featured a panel discussion with individuals connected to the work of Nebraska Children:

• JoAnn Gieselman, Director for Growing Community Connections

• LaRon Henderson, Program Quality Director for Collective Youth

• Lindsey Jarecki, Communities for Kids Consultant (Marti Beard of Nebraska Children stood in for Lindsey due to illness)

• Keenan Page, Associate Vice President of Youth and Family Economic Well-Being at Nebraska Children

Each panelist shared their experiences and insights into their work and collaborations with Nebraska Children.

The day concluded with Anne Steinhoff, Nebraska Children Board President and Chair, expressing gratitude to all attendees for reinforcing the commitment to a future where all children can thrive. We extend our thanks to our sponsors and attendees for their continued support of Nebraska Children’s mission.

The morning of celebration was truly wonderful, and it’s important to emphasize that this achievement is a collective effort. Nebraska Children extends our gratitude to all who are actively contributing to improve the lives of Nebraska’s families and children.