Blog Archives

Walking Together for Recovery and Safe Beginnings in North Platte

guest blog by Jessica Vogt, CoordinatorFamilies 1st Partnership (community collaborative providing services to Arthur, Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Lincoln, Perkins, and Red Willow Counties) In September, Families 1st Partnership hosted a Recovery Walk in North Platte to

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Posted in Uncategorized

Why Nebraska Is Investing in Boys and the HEAL Economy

Nebraska is launching the Boys in HEAL initiative to engage boys in careers within healthcare, education, and literacy. By focusing on experiential learning and mentorship, the program aims to counter declining male representation in these essential fields, promote purpose-driven career choices, and ultimately strengthen communities while addressing workforce shortages.

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Posted in Cradle to career, Middle Childhood, Teen/Early Adulthood, Uncategorized

Does Your Face Light Up?

by Sami Bradley, MaED.  LIMHP, IMH-E®Vice President, Early Childhood Mental HealthNebraska Children and Families Foundation  |  Rooted in Relationships We spend a lot of time wondering what builds our children’s self-esteem. Is it the praise we give them? Is it

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Posted in Early Childhood, Uncategorized

When Dinosaurs Roamed the Library

At the Schuyler Library, there are parents and children gathered around a table laid out with dinosaur and patriotic red, white, and blue cookies. There are doting grandparents, representatives of Nebraska Growing Readers (NGR), and the librarian. There is the

Posted in Early Childhood, Uncategorized

Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again on a Beyond School Bells Environmental Outing

Beyond School Bell’s Conservation Management Internship began in 2017 and has since been an opportunity for students to learn more about conservation by hearing from professionals in the field and by engaging in hands-on service learning from identifying plants, trees, and invasive species in places like Gjerlof Prairie and Glacier Creek Preserve to seeing how undergraduate students do research at UNL’s Cedar Point Research Station.

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Posted in Teen/Early Adulthood, Uncategorized

The Father That Didn’t Give Up: Alex’s Journey

Alex Chapa’s journey illustrates his transformation through fatherhood, coaching, and seeking second chances. Overcoming a challenging upbringing, Alex embraced help from a PALS Coach, which led him to stability, confidence, and a renewed purpose as a father. Committed to breaking cycles, he aims to provide a nurturing environment for his children.

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Posted in Systems, Teen/Early Adulthood, Uncategorized

From System-Impacted to System-Changer: Nandi’s Advocacy Journey

Nandi Kumondan, a system-impacted youth, turned her challenging experiences into advocacy for young people facing similar struggles. After her mother’s accident and subsequent passing, Nandi navigated legal obstacles without support. Through initiatives like Connected Youth Initiative, she now advocates for foster youth rights, ensuring they receive essential resources and support.

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Posted in Cradle to career, Legislature, Systems, Teen/Early Adulthood, Uncategorized

Celebrating the Heart of Camp Catch-Up: A Night Honoring Volunteers

Camp staff honored at the Camp Catch-Up Volunteer Event.

Camp Catch-Up held an appreciation event at Platte River State Park, celebrating volunteers crucial to its mission. Director Mona Tarin and guest speaker Gil Green III emphasized the transformative impact of the camp on children’s lives. The evening honored dedicated volunteers and community partnerships, highlighting the significance of support in fostering hope for campers.

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Posted in Cradle to career, Middle Childhood, Systems, Uncategorized

Be the Spark That Lights the Fire: The Impact of Camp Catch-Up Staff

“Your impact on these kids can be monumental,” said Gil Green III during the recent Camp Catch-Up Volunteer Appreciation Event. Camp Catch-Up creates a powerful space for siblings in foster care to reconnect, heal, and simply be kids together—often for the first time in a long time. In this blog, we share Gil’s heartfelt story about his own experience at camp, and how those few days surrounded by connection and support helped shape the course of his life.

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Posted in Middle Childhood, News and Events, Teen/Early Adulthood, Uncategorized

Innovation Invitational 2025: Innovating Amidst Uncertainty

Group of BSB Youth Leadership Council Panel share their experience with conference attendees.

The Beyond School Bells Innovation Invitational focused on empowering youth through purpose-driven afterschool programs. Key discussions addressed the challenges youth face, emphasizing belonging, engagement, and community. Experts encouraged educators to foster resilience and growth, while innovative initiatives aim to enhance Nebraska’s Expanded Learning Opportunities, ultimately inspiring young leaders and shaping future educational experiences.

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Posted in Middle Childhood, News and Events, Uncategorized
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