The spirit of Omaha comes alive during the holidays, not just in the twinkling lights along downtown streets or the festive decorations in neighborhoods across the metro, but in the countless ways our community comes together to support one another. This season offers a beautiful reminder that giving back isn't just about writing a check—it's about strengthening the fabric of the place we call home.

Whether you're a longtime Omahan or new to the area, getting involved with local organizations creates ripples of impact that extend far beyond the holiday season. Here are some meaningful ways you can make a difference right here in our community.

Catholic Charities

For over 100 years, Catholic Charities has been a cornerstone of support for families facing challenging times in the Omaha area. Their services reach across every stage of life—from providing food and shelter to offering counseling, immigration assistance, and programs for seniors.

This season, Catholic Charities welcomes donations of non-perishable food items, winter clothing, and household essentials. They also need volunteers to help sort donations, serve meals, and assist with their various programs. Even a few hours of your time can help ensure that families have what they need to get through the winter months. Financial contributions allow them to respond to urgent needs as they arise, providing flexibility to serve the community where help is needed most.

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

Home isn't just a place—it's the foundation for everything else in life. Habitat for Humanity of Omaha works year-round to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership, and the holiday season is a perfect time to get involved in creating lasting change.

You don't need construction experience to make a difference with Habitat. Volunteers are needed for build days, working in their ReStore locations, and helping with administrative tasks. The ReStore also accepts donations of new and gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials, which are sold to fund more home builds. Every hour volunteered and every item donated brings another family closer to the security and pride of owning their own home.

Boys Town

Since Father Flanagan founded Boys Town in 1917, this organization has been a beacon of hope for children and families facing difficult circumstances. Today, Boys Town serves thousands of young people across the country, with their national headquarters right here in our backyard.

The holiday season can be particularly difficult for children in crisis, and Boys Town offers multiple ways to help. Their holiday giving programs provide gifts and essentials for children in their care, while year-round donations support their mental health services, educational programs, and family support initiatives. Consider attending one of their fundraising events or organizing a donation drive through your workplace or neighborhood. Your support helps ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Food Bank for the Heartland

No one should have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table, yet many of our neighbors face this reality every day. Food Bank for the Heartland serves a 93-county area across Nebraska and Iowa, distributing millions of meals annually to children, families, and seniors experiencing food insecurity.

The demand for food assistance increases during the holiday season, making donations especially impactful right now. Non-perishable items like canned proteins, peanut butter, pasta, and canned vegetables are always needed. Financial donations are incredibly efficient—every dollar contributed provides three meals to those in need. Volunteer opportunities include sorting and packing food, assisting with mobile food pantries, and helping at distribution events. Whether you volunteer for a morning shift or organize a food drive with your neighbors, you're helping ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

Girls Inc. of Omaha

Girls Inc. of Omaha inspires young women to be strong, smart, and bold through after-school programs, summer camps, and mentoring opportunities. Their work focuses on building confidence, developing leadership skills, and providing education in STEM, financial literacy, and healthy relationships.

Supporting Girls Inc. means investing in the next generation of leaders in our community. Financial contributions help keep their programs accessible to all girls, regardless of their family's ability to pay. The organization also welcomes volunteers to serve as mentors, assist with programs, or share professional expertise through workshops and career panels. Donations of school supplies, sports equipment, and program materials are also appreciated. When you support Girls Inc., you're showing young women in Omaha that they have unlimited potential.

Open Door Mission

For more than 50 years, Open Door Mission has provided emergency shelter, meals, addiction recovery programs, and pathways to self-sufficiency for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Their comprehensive approach addresses not just immediate needs but the underlying challenges that lead to homelessness.

This winter, Open Door Mission needs warm clothing, blankets, hygiene products, and winter gear. They serve three meals a day, every day of the year, and always need volunteers to help prepare and serve food. Financial support allows them to maintain their shelter operations and recovery programs throughout the coldest months. The holidays can be an isolating time for those without stable housing, and your involvement reminds our neighbors that they're not forgotten.

Siena Francis House

Siena Francis House stands as Nebraska's largest emergency homeless shelter, serving men, women, and children throughout the Omaha metro area. Beyond providing beds and meals, they offer case management, job training, mental health services, and assistance securing permanent housing.

Winter is the most critical time for Siena Francis House, when shelter capacity is stretched and the need for warm clothing becomes urgent. Donations of new socks, underwear, coats, hats, and gloves directly serve guests staying at the shelter. Volunteers are needed year-round to help serve meals, sort donations, and assist with special programs. Your support during the holidays helps individuals take concrete steps toward rebuilding their lives, one day at a time.

Youth Emergency Services (YES)

Youth Emergency Services provides crisis intervention and support for young people ages 10 to 17 who are experiencing homelessness, abuse, or family conflict. Their emergency shelter, street outreach, and family reunification programs help keep vulnerable youth safe and connected to resources.

The holidays can be an especially difficult time for youth in crisis, and YES offers several ways to help. Their holiday gift programs provide presents for teens in the shelter, while year-round donations of personal care items, clothing, and gift cards help meet immediate needs. Volunteers can assist with meal preparation, recreation activities, or mentoring programs. Supporting YES means ensuring that every young person in Omaha has a safe place to turn when they need help most.

Beyond Organized Giving: Simple Ways to Make a Difference

While these organizations do incredible work, giving back doesn't always require a formal structure. Some of the most meaningful acts of kindness happen spontaneously in our daily lives.

Start by looking around your own neighborhood. An elderly neighbor might appreciate help shoveling their driveway or delivering a warm meal. A family new to Omaha might benefit from recommendations for local resources or simply a friendly welcome. Leave encouraging notes with generous tips for service workers who work through the holidays. Organize a cookie exchange and donate extra treats to a local fire station or hospital staff. Pick up coffee gift cards and hand them to essential workers you encounter—postal carriers, garbage collectors, or bus drivers who keep our city running regardless of the weather.

Consider supporting local small businesses while doing your holiday shopping, knowing that your dollars stay in the community. Donate books to Little Free Libraries throughout Omaha neighborhoods. If you're cleaning out closets for spring, take quality winter items directly to someone who needs them. Offer to babysit for free so parents can enjoy a rare evening out or tackle holiday preparations. The specific action matters less than the intention behind it—showing up for your neighbors in ways both big and small.

The Heim-Berg Team is proud to call Omaha home and to be part of a community that shows up for one another year-round, not just during the holidays. We believe that strong neighborhoods are built through connection, compassion, and commitment to looking out for each other. Whether you're considering a move to the Omaha area or already love living here, we'd be honored to help you find your place in this generous community. Contact The Heim-Berg Team today to discover the neighborhood that fits your life and values.