At Camp Catch-Up’s Winter Carnival, siblings separated by foster care reunite for a day filled with games, connection, and joy. From bouncing balloons to heartfelt gift exchanges, every moment is about strengthening bonds and creating cherished memories. For many, this is the only time they see their siblings all year—making every hug, laugh, and shared experience priceless.
The Engineering Pathway Program in Nebraska ignites student interest in STEM fields through hands-on projects and mentorship. Launched by Beyond School Bells and the Peter Kiewit Foundation, it fosters interconnected learning from elementary to high school, highlighting girls, rural youth, and underserved communities, while nurturing future engineers and leaders like mentee Britney Alarcon-Panzi.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to education, with students across the country experiencing disruptions that have left many grappling with unfinished learning. To address these challenges, the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021 established the Elementary and Secondary…
Driven by a mission to create positive change for Nebraska’s children, Beyond School Bells focuses on providing K-12 students with high-quality expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) that promote hands-on, engaged learning. The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) and Beyond School Bells…
Driven by a mission to create positive change for Nebraska’s children, Beyond School Bells focuses on providing K-12 students with high-quality expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) that promote hands-on, engaged learning. The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) and Beyond School Bells…
Driven by a mission to create positive change for Nebraska’s children, Beyond School Bells (an initiative of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation) focuses on providing K-12 students with high-quality expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) that promote hands-on, engaged learning. The Nebraska…
David Santos, facing homelessness and underemployment in Nebraska, was on the brink of leaving for Colorado with no concrete plan. However, a timely call from Zach Preble, a PALS Coach from Central Plains Center for Services, changed his path. Zach, funded by the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation’s Connected Youth Initiative (CYI), provided coaching focused on David’s strengths, connecting him to resources like housing and job training.
Nyaruot’s early life was marked by frequent moves and instability, but after finding stability and support in a foster family, she faced new challenges in college. With the help of her coach, Tanya and various programs, she overcame setbacks and achieved her goals, earning a social work degree. Her journey highlights the power of resilience and support networks.
The voices of Nebraska’s youth proved to be a powerful force, swaying Governor Jim Pillen to support crucial legislation impacting food security for 150,000 children in Nebraska. The young advocates, representing communities across Nebraska, presented compelling arguments at Legislative Days, ultimately influencing the governor’s decision. Their success highlights the transformative impact of youth advocacy in shaping policy.
This is a story of empowerment. Learn how STEM and afterschool programming impacted the life of a Lincoln teen.
