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.
“It could have been us.” Powerful words spoken by a young advocate during Legislative Days, capturing the real-life stakes behind the bills debated at this year’s event. Designed to educate young people on the legislative and policymaking process, the event gives youth leaders a platform to push for meaningful change. Hosted by Connected Youth Initiative (CYI), an initiative of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (Nebraska Children), Legislative Days emphasizes civic engagement as a tool for personal growth and community betterment. For many participants, this event marks the beginning of their advocacy journey, setting them on paths to future leadership roles.
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.
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.
Camp Catch-Up, offered by Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, offers sibling groups separated by foster care an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen bonds. The inaugural winter camp, filled with activities and crafts, served as a meaningful reunion space and time for its campers. The camp fosters both active and quieter moments to engage campers, such as a collective painting project reflecting their time at the camp and a gift-exchange ritual, bolstering family ties. Volunteers, including past campers, contribute towards creating a nurturing environment for the children.
Marin Johnson and Ja’Nae Smith are two young people who grew up in Omaha and found themselves thrust into independence without the family supports that make the transition easier. As Smith put it, “it’s hard when you don’t have that parental support system.” Had it not been for their discovery of Project Everlast, their journey to adulting might have been quite different.
Designed to bring siblings separated through foster care placements back together, Camp Catch-Up offers an opportunity to reunite with these siblings. For some, it has been quite a long time since they have seen their siblings. Often years.
One of the best things about Nebraska Children and Families Foundation is the people. Nebraska Children is made up of passionate people dedicated to making positive change. Most recently, Chloe Mcshannon has embodied the role of a young leader. As…
When Chloe Mcshannon ran away from her foster care placements as a teenager, one day she realized that if she didn’t return to school, she’d miss her final exams. That, among many other turning points, led this remarkable young woman to where she is today—as a Camp Catch-Up intern. Read more.
Growing the Good Life 