Last fall, the Nebraska Blue Foundation, which powers Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska’s (BCBSNE) philanthropic initiatives, hosted its second grant cycle, investing $300,000 in nonprofits working to strengthen Nebraska communities.
The foundation contributed to programs that support economic vitality and the development of “third places,” community spaces where people connect outside of home and work. Among the organizations selected, several are shaping Nebraska’s future by advancing the workforce, creating new pathways for people to learn, grow and build stability.
“The foundation is proud to uplift these nonprofits and support their efforts to strengthen our state’s workforce,” said Jay Warren-Teamer, executive director of the foundation and community and strategic engagement leader at BCBSNE. “By investing in organizations that open doors to opportunity, we’re championing the well-being of Nebraskans and helping to build thriving, resilient communities.”
Three organizations are highlighted below for their work in building the workforce and advancing economic vitality.
Avenue Scholars
Avenue Scholars prepares under‑resourced high school and college‑age students for financially sustaining careers through individualized coaching, education and workforce partnerships. Nebraska Blue Foundation funding supports the organization’s Healthcare Career Pathway, which provides coaching, training and wraparound services that help students earn credentials and enter high‑demand health care roles.
“Our secret sauce is recognizing that everybody is an individual, and you have to customize everybody’s career journey,” said Lindsay Decker, CEO of Avenue Scholars. “Hands-on experiences make a humongous difference. It is one thing to read about a career, but it is another to walk into that environment and see what it is really like.”
Heart Ministry Center
Heart Ministry Center provides food, health care and support services to Omaha residents experiencing poverty, with a focus on helping individuals build long‑term stability. Its Fresh Start Job Training and Placement Program supports participants rebuilding their lives after incarceration or addiction through job readiness training, therapy and financial coaching.
“We work with people whom many other organizations cannot or will not work with,” said Tim McTaggart, vice president of grants at Heart Ministry Center. “Support from partners like the Nebraska Blue Foundation makes it possible for us to offer the kind of intensive, long‑term help people truly need.”
CareerLadder
CareerLadder supports internationally trained professionals who have education or work experience from outside the United States and are seeking to re‑enter their careers in Nebraska. The organization helps clients navigate licensing requirements and offers virtual classes and career guides through its growing Resource Hub, which the foundation supported with a grant.
“We value the investment in expanding our work to reach more rural communities,” said Lee Kreimer, executive director of CareerLadder. “At this point, we have clients in about ten cities across Nebraska, and we’re excited to continue building resources and connections.”
Our ongoing commitment
The Nebraska Blue Foundation continues to invest in organizations that help Nebraskans build pathways to stability and long-term opportunities. To stay connected with the latest foundation news, visit NebraskaBlue.com/Foundation.
