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United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County

EIN 47-0376624 · Lincoln, NE

Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.

LegitimacyPassesRegistration and standingFinancial healthFair65 out of 100GovernanceStrong100 out of 100Impact evidenceDescribes programsHow well its results are evidenced

What it says it does

TO IMPROVE LIVES BY MOBILIZING THE CARING POWER OF THE LINCOLN AND LANCASTER COUNTY COMMUNITY.

Income
$7.1 million
Spending
$7.0 million
Spent on programs
76%
Reserves
4.8 months of spending
Largest source of income
donations and private grants, 93%
Employees
22
Volunteers
1,626
Highest pay
$172,566, executive director

Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate

Financial health

Fair: 65 out of 100. Higher than 24% of charities in its peer group (philanthropy, $1m to $10m).

  • Reserves

    20 of 35

    Spendable reserves would cover 4.8 months of spending.

  • Debt

    5 of 20

    It owes 74% of what it owns.

  • Living within its means

    15 of 15

    Income exceeded spending by 2% of income.

  • Income trend

    10 of 15

    Income fell 6% on the year before.

  • Spending floor

    15 of 15

    76% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 17 cents.

Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate

Governance

Strong: 100 out of 100. Higher than 65% of charities in its peer group (philanthropy, $1m to $10m).

  • Independent board

    25 of 25

    26 of 26 voting board members are independent.

  • Conflict of interest policy

    15 of 15

    Has a written conflict of interest policy.

  • Whistleblower policy

    8 of 8

    Has a written whistleblower policy.

  • Record keeping policy

    7 of 7

    Has a written policy on keeping and destroying records.

  • Board minutes

    5 of 5

    Keeps minutes of board meetings.

  • Board sees the tax return

    10 of 10

    Gave the board a copy of this return before filing it.

  • Pay set independently

    5 of 5

    Sets its chief executive's pay through independent review and comparison.

  • Independent check of accounts

    15 of 15

    Its accounts were audited by an independent accountant.

  • No reported misuse

    10 of 10

    Reports no diversion of assets, excess benefits or loans to insiders.

Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate

Impact evidence

Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.

Programs described in its return (24)
  1. $701,904 spent. COMMUNITY IMPACT FOCUS AREA: EDUCATION (SEE DETAILED LIST OF PROGRAMS IN THIS FOCUS AREA ON SCHEDULE O).DURING THE 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR, FUNDED PROGRAMS REPORTED THE FOLLOWING:1) 6,828 STUDENTS WERE SERVED BY OUR PARTNER AGENCY PROGRAMS 2) 4,697 STUDENTS STRENGTHENED POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH PEERS AND CARING ADULTS3) 4,198 STUDENTS DEMONSTRATED IMPROVED SKILLS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND PROBLEM-SOLVING THE FOLLOWING AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS WERE AWARDED GRANTS IN THIS FOCUS AREA: ASIAN COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL CENTER: REFUGEE AND IMMIGRANT YOUTH PROGRAM PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR YOUTH WHO HAVE RECENTLY ARRIVED TO THE U.S. AT SEVERAL HIGH SCHOOLS AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS, FOCUSING ON BUILDING DEVELOPMENTAL ASSETS THROUGH ONE-ON-ONE MENTORING AND CASE MANAGEMENT. PROGRAMS INCLUDE ACADEMIC SUPPORT, CULTURAL ENRICHMENT, AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES. THE CENTER STRENGTHENS CONNECTIONS BETWEEN FAMILIES, SCHOOLS, AND COMMUNITIES TO PROMOTE SOCIAL WELL-BEING AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS. GRANT AMOUNT - $15,000. THE ARC OF LINCOLN: YOUTH PROGRAMS + WORKS WITH YOUTH WHO HAVE INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (I/DD) AND THEIR FAMILIES. IT ENSURES ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY SERVICES AND RESOURCES, HELPING FAMILIES NAVIGATE SYSTEMS, THERAPIES AND SERVICES FOR THE BEST OUTCOMES. THE PROGRAM FOSTERS MEANINGFUL PEER AND COMMUNITY INTERACTIONS FOR YOUTH. GRANT AMOUNT - $9,000. BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS LINCOLN: COMMUNITY BASED MENTORING PROGRAM CONNECTS CHILDREN AGES 7-19 WITH CARING ADULT MENTORS TO SUPPORT THEIR PERSONAL AND ACADEMIC GROWTH. MENTORS PROVIDE POSITIVE ROLE MODELS AND FOSTER STRONG, ENDURING RELATIONSHIPS. THE PROGRAM SUPPORTS YOUTH FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS, OFFERING YEAR-ROUND MENTORSHIP THAT HELPS IMPROVE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, RELATIONSHIPS, AND LIFE CHOICES. GRANT AMOUNT - $60,000. BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF LINCOLN/LANCASTER COUNTY: POWER HOUR & PROJECT LEARN PROGRAM PROVIDES UNDERSERVED YOUTH WITH HIGH-IMPACT BEFORE AND AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING STEM EDUCATION, FINANCIAL LITERACY, HOMEWORK HELP, TUTORING, AND SUMMER LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES. YOUTH ALSO BENEFIT FROM NUTRITIOUS MEALS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES. GRANT AMOUNT - $30,000. CEDARS YOUTH SERVICES: CEDARS COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER (CLC) PROGRAM OFFERS BEFORE AND AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMMING, EXPANDED LEARNING CLUBS, SUMMER CARE, AND FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN COLLABORATION WITH LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. THE PROGRAM FOCUSES ON IMPROVING STUDENT LEARNING, SUPPORTING FAMILIES, AND STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS. GRANT AMOUNT - $52,000. CEDARS YOUTH SERVICES: CEDARS NORTHBRIDGE EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS PROGRAM PROVIDES NATIONALLY ACCREDITED FULL-DAY, YEAR-ROUND CHILDCARE FOR CHILDREN AGES SIX WEEKS TO SIX YEARS OLD IN UNDER-RESOURCED NEIGHBORHOODS. THE PROGRAM USES CREATIVE CURRICULUM/GOLD TO PROMOTE SCHOOL READINESS AND SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT. TEACHERS WORK CLOSELY WITH PARENTS, PROVIDING INDIVIDUAL GOAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT FOR EACH CHILD, WITH SUPPORT FROM A PYRAMID MODEL COACH AND LICENSED THERAPIST TO PROMOTE HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT. GRANT AMOUNT - $90,000. CENTER FOR PEOPLE: ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING PROGRAM OFFERS DAILY ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE RECENTLY ARRIVED TO THE U.S. AND OTHER ADULTS TO IMPROVE THEIR SPOKEN AND WRITTEN LANGUAGE SKILLS WHILE SUPPORTING THEIR ADAPTATION TO AMERICAN CULTURE. THE PROGRAM HELPS PARTICIPANTS PREPARE FOR THE U.S. NATURALIZATION EXAM AND PROVIDES A PERSONALIZED LEARNING PACE WITH REGULAR ASSESSMENTS. GRANT AMOUNT - $5,000. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF LANCASTER AND SAUNDERS COUNTIES: HEAD START PROGRAM PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN FROM LOW-INCOME FAMILIES WITH THE SKILLS NECESSARY FOR SUCCESS IN SCHOOL AND LIFE. THE PROGRAM SERVES CHILDREN AGES 3-5 AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH FULL-YEAR, CENTER-BASED SERVICES, AND PROVIDES EARLY HEAD START FOR CHILDREN AGES 0-3. IT OFFERS MENTAL HEALTH, NUTRITION, AND DENTAL SERVICES ENSURING CHILDREN RECEIVE INTERVENTIONS WHICH WILL HELP THEM MEET DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES. GRANT AMOUNT - $90,000. EDUCARE LINCOLN: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: PREPARING CHILDREN FOR KINDERGARTEN AND LIFELONG SUCCESS PROGRAM COMBINES RESEARCH FROM EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION, SOCIAL WORK, AND RELATED FIELDS TO SERVE UNDER-RESOURCED FAMILIES IN LINCOLN. ITS FOUR CORE FEATURES ARE DATA UTILIZATION, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, HIGH-QUALITY TEACHING PRACTICES, AND INTENSIVE FAMILY ENGAGEMENT TO ENSURE CHILDREN ARE READY FOR KINDERGARTEN AND LONG-TERM SUCCESS. GRANT AMOUNT - $16,000. EL CENTRO DE LAS AMERICAS: ADELANTE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM HELPS CLOSE THE EDUCATION GAP AND IMPROVE LITERACY, EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, AND FURTHER EDUCATION. IT INCLUDES A GED PROGRAM, WHICH FOCUSES ON THE FOUR REQUIRED SUBJECTS, AND CITIZENSHIP CLASSES THAT HELP PARTICIPANTS PREPARE FOR THE U.S. NATURALIZATION EXAM. GRANT AMOUNT - $6,500. THE HUB-CENTRAL ACCESS POINT FOR YOUNG ADULTS: LINCOLN EDUCATION OUTREACH (LEO) PROGRAM LINCOLN EDUCATION OUTREACH (LEO) PROGRAM IS AN ACADEMIC INTERVENTION PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ADULTS FACING BARRIERS TO HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION. IT PROVIDES GED PREPARATION, HIGH SCHOOL RE-ENGAGEMENT, POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION SUPPORT, AND EMPLOYMENT READINESS TRAINING FOR YOUTH AGES 16-24 TRANSITIONING TO ADULTHOOD. GRANT AMOUNT - $32,500. THE HUB-CENTRAL ACCESS POINT FOR YOUNG ADULTS: YOUTH AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER (YOUTHACT) PROGRAM SUPPORTS STUDENT PARENTS IN LINCOLN PUBLIC SCHOOLS COMPLETING THEIR GED AT THE HUB. YOUTHACT PROVIDES CASE MANAGEMENT, RESOURCES, AND PARENTING CLASSES, WITH A FOCUS ON SELF-ESTEEM, SELF-CARE, AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT. GRANT AMOUNT - $9,000. LIGHTHOUSE: AFTERSCHOOL MENTORING PROGRAM ADDRESSES RISK FACTORS SUCH AS UNSUPERVISED PEER TIME AND LOW SELF-ESTEEM THAT MAKE YOUNG PEOPLE VULNERABLE TO UNHEALTHY BEHAVIORS. STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS BUILD POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUTH THROUGH ACTIVITIES AND HELP ENFORCE RULES TO ENSURE A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT. GRANT AMOUNT - $74,000. LIGHTHOUSE:
  2. $631,500 spent. COMMUNITY IMPACT FOCUS AREA: HEALTH (SEE DETAILED LIST OF PROGRAMS IN THIS FOCUS AREA ON SCHEDULE O).DURING THE 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR, FUNDED PROGRAMS REPORTED THE FOLLOWING:1) 11,318 INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED SERVICES THROUGH PARTNER AGENCY PROGRAMS2) 4,656 INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY CRISIS SITUATIONS RECEIVED TIMELY ACCESS TO SUPPORT AND COUNSELING3) 1,741 YOUTH DEMONSTRATED IMPROVED COPING AND RESILIENCE SKILLS THE FOLLOWING AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS WERE AWARDED GRANTS IN THIS FOCUS AREA: BRAVEBE CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER: DIRECT SERVICES TO CHILD VICTIMS OF ABUSE PROVIDES INTERVENTION SERVICES TO CHILDREN WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED ABUSE OR NEGLECT, ALLOWING THEM TO TELL THEIR STORIES IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT. THE PROGRAM INCLUDES FORENSIC INTERVIEWS, MEDICAL EVALUATIONS, AND ONGOING ADVOCACY FOR THE CHILD AND THEIR NON-OFFENDING CAREGIVERS. SERVICES ALSO INCLUDE COURT PREPARATION, MENTAL HEALTH REFERRALS, AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION. GRANT AMOUNT - $75,575. CASA FOR LANCASTER COUNTY: COURT APPOINTED ADVOCACY FOR AT-RISK CHILDREN RECRUITS, TRAINS, AND SUPPORTS COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS TO ADVOCATE FOR THE NEEDS AND BEST INTERESTS OF CHILDREN INVOLVED IN THE JUVENILE COURT SYSTEM. THE PROGRAM PROMOTES CHILD SAFETY, STABILITY, AND WELL-BEING BY HELPING TO ENSURE TIMELY AND APPROPRIATE PERMANENT PLACEMENTS. GRANT AMOUNT - $24,000. CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF SOUTHERN NEBRASKA: ST. GIANNA WOMEN'S HOMES PROGRAM PROVIDES SAFE HOUSING AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR EXPECTANT WOMEN AND SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. THE 24-UNIT HOUSING COMPLEX OFFERS EXTENDED-STAY ACCOMMODATIONS, ALONG WITH EDUCATIONAL, EMPLOYMENT, AND COUNSELING SERVICES DESIGNED TO PROMOTE STABILITY, INDEPENDENCE, AND SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION TO PERMANENT HOUSING. GRANT AMOUNT - $16,200. CEDARS YOUTH SERVICES: CEDARS PREVENTION SERVICES PROGRAM SUPPORTS EXPECTANT PARENTS AND FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN THROUGH HOME VISITATION AND PARENTING EDUCATION SERVICES. THE PROGRAM STRENGTHENS FAMILY STABILITY, PROMOTES POSITIVE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIPS, AND ENHANCES OVERALL CHILD AND FAMILY WELL-BEING. GRANT AMOUNT - $68,600. EL CENTRO DE LAS AMERICAS: MUJERES EN CONFINAZA (WOMEN AMONG FRIENDS) PROGRAM PROVIDES SUPPORT GROUPS AND CASE MANAGEMENT FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IMPACTED BY CRISIS SITUATIONS. PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE BILINGUAL AND CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE SERVICES THAT HELP THEM STRENGTHEN SUPPORT NETWORKS AND ACCESS ESSENTIAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES. GRANT AMOUNT - $6,300. FAMILY SERVICES LINCOLN: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAM PROVIDES ACCESSIBLE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES WITHIN LINCOLN PUBLIC SCHOOLS. THE SCHOOL-BASED DELIVERY MODEL REDUCES BARRIERS TO CARE BY OFFERING COUNSELING AND SKILL-BUILDING SERVICES THAT PROMOTE EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING, POSITIVE BEHAVIOR, AND HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS. GRANT AMOUNT - $42,000. FRIENDSHIP HOME OF LINCOLN, INC: EMERGENCY SHELTER PROGRAM PROVIDES CONFIDENTIAL HOUSING AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. USING A TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH, THE PROGRAM PROMOTES SAFETY, STABILITY, AND LONG-TERM WELL-BEING THROUGH COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES DESIGNED TO MEET IMMEDIATE AND ONGOING NEEDS. GRANT AMOUNT - $80,000. HOPESPOKE OUTPATIENT SERVICES PROGRAM PROVIDES THERAPEUTIC AND COUNSELING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, AND ADULTS IMPACTED BY CRISIS OR ADVERSE EXPERIENCES. SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE IN MULTIPLE LANGUAGES AND ARE TAILORED TO MEET THE NEEDS OF INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WITH LIMITED ACCESS TO TRADITIONAL PAYMENT OPTIONS. GRANT AMOUNT - $135,280. LEGAL AID OF NEBRASKA: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE REPRESENTATION PROJECT PROVIDES CIVIL LEGAL ASSISTANCE TO SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. SERVICES INCLUDE GUIDANCE AND REPRESENTATION RELATED TO PROTECTION ORDERS, FAMILY LAW MATTERS, AND OTHER CIVIL LEGAL NEEDS. THE PROGRAM PROMOTES SAFETY, STABILITY, AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY THROUGH COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL SUPPORT. GRANT AMOUNT - $14,000. LINCOLN MEDICAL EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP: SCHOOL COMMUNITY INTERVENTION AND PREVENTION (SCIP) PROGRAM IS AN EARLY IDENTIFICATION AND REFERRAL PROGRAM DESIGNED TO BRING TOGETHER FAMILIES, SCHOOLS, AND THE COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT STUDENT MENTAL, BEHAVIORAL, AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH BY ADDRESSING BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS THAT INFLUENCE YOUTH. GRANT AMOUNT - $23,640. LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES: CHILDREN'S BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAM PROVIDES INTENSIVE, EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENT SERVICES TO CHILDREN AND YOUTH UNDER THE AGE OF 19. GRANT AMOUNT - $12,640. MOURNING HOPE GRIEF CENTER: PEER BASED GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAM PROVIDES AN OPEN AND HONEST COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT FOR BEREAVED CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES. SERVICES INCLUDE EDUCATION, NETWORKING, OUTREACH, AND SUPPORT GROUPS TO HELP INDIVIDUALS GAIN A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE GRIEF PROCESS AND LEARN COPING STRATEGIES. GRANT AMOUNT - $21,440. ST. MONICA'S LIFE CHANGING RECOVERY FOR WOMEN: PROJECT MOTHER & CHILD PROGRAM PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN. THE SIX-MONTH PROGRAM OFFERS SAFE HOUSING AND ACCESS TO COORDINATED MEDICAL, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, AND RECOVERY SUPPORT SERVICES. PARTICIPANTS ALSO RECEIVE CRISIS INTERVENTION AND CASE MANAGEMENT DESIGNED TO PROMOTE STABILITY, WELLNESS, AND FAMILY REUNIFICATION. GRANT AMOUNT - $34,425. VOICES OF HOPE LINCOLN, INC: CRISIS INTERVENTION AND ADVOCACY PROGRAM PROVIDES 24-HOUR CRISIS RESPONSE, ADVOCACY, AND REFERRAL SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS WITH SAFETY NEEDS AND SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. IT OFFERS INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP COUNSELING, CASE MANAGEMENT, AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE PLANNING TO PROMOTE SAFETY, STABILITY, AND LONG-TERM WELL-BEING. GRANT AMOUNT - $77,400.
  3. $597,656 spent. COMMUNITY IMPACT FOCUS AREA: FINANCIAL STABILITY (SEE DETAILED LIST OF PROGRAMS IN THIS FOCUS AREA ON SCHEDULE O).DURING THE 2023-2024 FISCAL YEAR, FUNDED PROGRAMS REPORTED THE FOLLOWING:1) 3,411,694 POUNDS OF FOOD WERE DISTRIBUTED THROUGH PARTNER AGENCY PROGRAMS 2) 80,564 INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED FOOD ASSISTANCE AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES3) APPROXIMATELY 70% OF PARTICIPATING HOUSEHOLDS REPORTED INCOME LEVELS CONSISTENT WITH FEDERAL POVERTY GUIDELINES THE FOLLOWING AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS WERE AWARDED GRANTS IN THIS FOCUS AREA: AMERICAN RED CROSS OF SOUTHEAST NEBRASKA CHAPTER: DISASTER SERVICES PROGRAM PROVIDES DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE, AND RECOVERY SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES AFFECTED BY EMERGENCIES SUCH AS FIRES, FLOODS, AND SEVERE WEATHER EVENTS. SERVICES INCLUDE A 24-HOUR HOTLINE, EMERGENCY RELIEF SUPPLIES, SAFE SHELTER, AND ONGOING CASE MANAGEMENT TO SUPPORT RECOVERY, STABILITY, AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY. GRANT AMOUNT - $32,500. ASIAN COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL CENTER: FAMILY RESOURCE PROGRAM HELPS INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES OVERCOME BARRIERS TO STABILITY AND ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE BY PROVIDING SERVICES SUCH AS ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION, EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT, AND COORDINATION OF MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE. THE PROGRAM ALSO ASSISTS WITH TAX PREPARATION AND TRANSLATION OF ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS FOR HOUSEHOLDS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY. GRANT AMOUNT - $8,000. CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF SOUTHERN NEBRASKA: EMERGENCY SERVICES PROGRAM PROVIDES TEMPORARY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO HELP INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES MAINTAIN HOUSING STABILITY BY COVERING RENT, UTILITY, AND OTHER ESSENTIAL EXPENSES. IT ALSO OFFERS BUDGETING SUPPORT AND REFERRALS TO COMMUNITY RESOURCES TO PROMOTE LONG-TERM FINANCIAL WELLNESS AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY. GRANT AMOUNT - $33,000. CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF SOUTHERN NEBRASKA: FOOD MARKET AND MEAL SERVICE PROGRAM PROVIDES ACCESS TO PERISHABLE AND NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS, INCLUDING FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES, DAIRY PRODUCTS, AND OTHER NUTRITIOUS OPTIONS. PARTICIPANTS CAN SELECT FOODS THAT MEET THEIR HOUSEHOLD PREFERENCES AND NEEDS. THE PROGRAM ALSO COORDINATES MONTHLY FOOD DISTRIBUTION EVENTS AT LOCAL SCHOOLS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FOOD BANK OF LINCOLN. GRANT AMOUNT - $12,500. CEDARS YOUTH SERVICES: CEDARS EMERGENCY SHELTER PROGRAM PROVIDES 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SHELTER AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR YOUTH AGES 12-18 WHO ARE EXPERIENCING HOUSING INSTABILITY OR IN NEED OF TEMPORARY CARE. THE PROGRAM OFFERS STRUCTURED GROUP ACTIVITIES, ACADEMIC SUPPORT, AND CASE MANAGEMENT TO PROMOTE SAFETY, STABILITY, AND POSITIVE CONNECTIONS WITH FAMILIES OR OTHER APPROPRIATE PLACEMENTS. GRANT AMOUNT - $35,000. CEDARS YOUTH SERVICES: CEDARS STREET OUTREACH AND YOUTH OPPORTUNITY CENTER PROGRAM CONDUCTS OUTREACH TO YOUTH EXPERIENCING HOUSING INSTABILITY OR CRISIS, PROVIDING IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE, SAFETY PLANNING, AND ONGOING SUPPORT TO HELP THEM ACCESS STABLE LIVING ARRANGEMENTS. THE YOUTH OPPORTUNITY CENTER OFFERS A WELCOMING DROP-IN SPACE WHERE YOUTH CAN RECEIVE FOOD, HYGIENE ITEMS, AND COUNSELING SERVICES THAT PROMOTE WELL-BEING AND INFORMED DECISION-MAKING. GRANT AMOUNT - $10,000. CENTER FOR PEOPLE: NEIGHBORHOOD FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM PROVIDES HOUSEHOLDS WITH LIMITED FOOD ACCESS THE OPPORTUNITY TO OBTAIN FRESH PRODUCE, MEATS, BAKED GOODS, AND OTHER NUTRITIOUS ITEMS THROUGH WEEKDAY FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS. PARTICIPANTS CAN SELECT FROM AVAILABLE INVENTORY TO MEET THEIR HOUSEHOLD'S DIETARY PREFERENCES AND NUTRITIONAL NEEDS. GRANT AMOUNT - $28,500. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF LANCASTER AND SAUNDERS COUNTIES: BASIC AND EMERGENCY NEEDS SERVICES PROGRAM PROVIDES TEMPORARY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO HELP INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES MAINTAIN HOUSING STABILITY BY COVERING RENT, UTILITIES, AND SECURITY DEPOSITS. IT ALSO OFFERS SUPPORTIVE HOUSING OPTIONS, CASE MANAGEMENT, AND TENANT SUPPORT SERVICES THAT PROMOTE LONG-TERM STABILITY AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY. GRANT AMOUNT - $65,000. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF LANCASTER AND SAUNDERS COUNTIES: FINANCIAL WELL-BEING PROGRAM INCLUDES THREE INTEGRATED SERVICES DESIGNED TO STRENGTHEN FINANCIAL STABILITY AND PROMOTE LONG-TERM ECONOMIC WELL-BEING. FREE TO SAVE PROVIDES FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND MATCHED SAVINGS OPPORTUNITIES; OPPORTUNITY PASSPORT SUPPORTS YOUNG ADULTS WITH FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND ASSET-BUILDING; AND FINANCIAL COACHING OFFERS INDIVIDUALIZED GUIDANCE TO HELP PARTICIPANTS MANAGE DEBT, IMPROVE CREDIT, AND ACHIEVE FINANCIAL GOALS. GRANT AMOUNT - $15,000. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF LANCASTER AND SAUNDERS COUNTIES: THE GATHERING PLACE PROGRAM PROVIDES NUTRITIOUS EVENING MEALS SEVEN DAYS A WEEK TO INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES EXPERIENCING FOOD INSECURITY. MEALS ARE BALANCED AND OFTEN INCLUDE FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TO SUPPORT OVERALL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING GRANT AMOUNT - $15,000. ECHO COLLECTIVE: THE REFINERY PROGRAM SUPPORTS WOMEN WHO ARE NEW TO THE U.S. BY PROVIDING BUSINESS EDUCATION, PROFESSIONAL MENTORSHIP, AND CONTINUOUS SUPPORT. PARTICIPANTS ALSO RECEIVE ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION AND INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC COACHING TO HELP THEM DEVELOP SMALL BUSINESSES AND BUILD PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS. GRANT AMOUNT - $22,500. EL CENTRO DE LAS AMERICAS: CRISIS ASSISTANCE & PREVENTION PROGRAM PROVIDES EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT, RESUME ASSISTANCE, AND ACCESS TO BASIC NEEDS SERVICES SUCH AS FOOD AND TEMPORARY AID COORDINATION. THROUGH CASE MANAGEMENT AND ONGOING GUIDANCE, PARTICIPANTS STRENGTHEN FINANCIAL STABILITY AND MAINTAIN SECURE HOUSING. GRANT AMOUNT - $11,500. FAMILY SERVICES LINCOLN: COMMUNITY GARDENS PROGRAM PROVIDES RESIDENTS WITH ACCESS TO GARDEN SPACE AND EDUCATION ON GROWING FRESH, NUTRITIOUS FOOD FOR THEIR HOUSEHOLDS. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS, THE PROGRAM DEVELOPS NEW GARDEN SITES TO EXPAND COMMUNITY ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOODS AND PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY. GRANT AMOUNT - $12,000. FAMILY SERVICES LINCOLN: INRESPONSE PROGRAM PROVIDES SHORT-TERM HOUSING ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOUSING INSTABILITY OR CRISIS. USING A
  4. $384,804 spent. COMMUNITY RESPONSE/LANCASTER CONNECTED COLLABORATIVE: THIS COMMUNITY-WIDE INITIATIVE STRENGTHENS COORDINATION AMONG LOCAL PARTNERS TO PREVENT CHILD MALTREATMENT AND REDUCE ENTRY INTO HIGHER LEVELS OF CARE WITHIN THE CHILD WELFARE AND JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEMS. UNITED WAY SERVES AS THE FISCAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE LEAD, OVERSEEING CONTRACTS, FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, AND REPORTING. THE INITIATIVE IS SUPPORTED BY FUNDING FROM THE NEBRASKA CHILDREN AND FAMILIES FOUNDATION (NCFF) AND THE NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, TOTALING $384,804 FOR THE 2024-2025 FISCAL PERIOD.
  5. $248,624 spent. ENGAGE. EMPOWER.GRADUATE (EEG): WOMEN UNITED AND EMERGING LEADERS UNITED COLLABORATE TO EXPAND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS IN SCHOOLS WITH LIMITED ACCESS TO RESOURCES. THIS INITIATIVE FUNDS PROGRAMS THAT PROMOTE FAMILY ENGAGEMENT, EARLY LEARNING, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS, SUPPORTING ON-TIME GRADUATION AND LONG-TERM ACHIEVEMENT. IN 2024-2025, $248,624 WAS RAISED AND ALLOCATED TO SIX PROGRAMS: JUMP START TO KINDERGARTEN, FAMILY LITERACY, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES, SUMMER ENRICHMENT, FAMILY ENGAGEMENT, AND COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTERS.
  6. $56,767 spent. WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY (WIP) INITIATIVE: UNITED WAY'S ANNUAL HELPING HANDS AUCTION RAISED FUNDS TO PROVIDE ESSENTIAL ITEMS SUCH AS DIAPERS AND WARM CLOTHING TO FAMILIES EXPERIENCING FINANCIAL HARDSHIP. IN 2024-2025, WIP AWARDED $56,767 TO 13 UNITED WAY PARTNER AGENCIES TO DISTRIBUTE THESE ITEMS TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES THROUGHOUT LINCOLN.
  7. $35,000 spent. LINCOLN COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTERS (CLC): $35,000 WAS ALLOCATED TO LINCOLN COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTERS. THE COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTERS (CLC) INITIATIVE FOCUSES ON THREE CORE OUTCOMES: ENHANCING STUDENT LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT, STRENGTHENING FAMILY ENGAGEMENT, AND FOSTERING CONNECTED AND SUPPORTIVE NEIGHBORHOODS.
  8. $20,000 spent. AGENCY CAPACITY BUILDING: THIS PROJECT RECEIVED A $20,000 ALLOCATION TO STRENGTHEN NONPROFIT CAPACITY WITHIN THE LINCOLN COMMUNITY. CAUSE COLLECTIVE, THE GRANT RECIPIENT, SUPPORTS LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS THROUGH COLLABORATION, EDUCATION, AND ADVOCACY. THE ORGANIZATION SERVES AS A CENTRAL HUB FOR INFORMATION SHARING, TRAINING, AND SECTOR-WIDE COORDINATION TO ENHANCE EFFECTIVENESS AND COMMUNITY IMPACT.
  9. $18,749 spent. EMERGING LEADERS UNITED (ELU) INITIATIVE: UNITED WAY'S EMERGING LEADERS UNITED (ELU) AFFINITY GROUP RAISED $18,749 THROUGH ITS ANNUAL WINGFEST EVENT TO SUPPORT CREATIVE LEARNING SPACES IN LINCOLN AND LANCASTER COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND NONPROFITS. THESE SPACES PROVIDE CALMING, SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS WHERE STUDENTS IN KINDERGARTEN THROUGH FIFTH GRADE CAN PRACTICE SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL AND COPING SKILLS, IMPROVING CLASSROOM ENGAGEMENT AND REDUCING BEHAVIORAL DISRUPTIONS.
  10. $16,849 spent. VIRTUAL BOOK DRIVE: AN ONLINE CAMPAIGN SPONSORED BY UNITED WAY'S WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY AND EMERGING LEADERS UNITED GROUPS RAISED $16,849 TO PURCHASE BOOKS AND SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR CHILDREN IN LANCASTER COUNTY. DURING THE 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR, 4,575 BOOKS WERE DISTRIBUTED TO SUPPORT LITERACY AND LEARNING.
  11. $15,000 spent. LINCOLN PARTNERSHIP FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: UNITED WAY PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR THE LINCOLN PARTNERSHIP FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT'S WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY TO CREATE PATHWAYS FOR LINCOLN RESIDENTS TO OBTAIN LIVING-WAGE EMPLOYMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY. $15,000 HAS BEEN ALLOCATED FOR THIS PROJECT.
  12. $10,000 spent. SUMMER FOOD PROGRAM: A $10,000 ALLOCATION SUPPORTED THE FOOD BANK OF LINCOLN'S SUMMER FOOD PROGRAM, WHICH SERVED APPROXIMATELY 1,026 PARTICIPANTS IN 2025. THE PROGRAM PROVIDED 55,946 NUTRITIOUS MEALS, 25,165 BREAKFASTS AND 30,781 LUNCHES FEATURING FRESH PRODUCE AND FRUITS SUCH AS STRAWBERRIES AND BLUEBERRIES TO PROMOTE HEALTHY EATING.
  13. $8,000 spent. DATA-TRACKING PROJECT: THIS PROJECT RECEIVED AN $8,000 ALLOCATION IN A JOINTLY FUNDED EFFORT WITH THE JOINT BUDGET COMMITTEE TO HELP TRACK FOOD PANTRY AND FOOD DISTRIBUTION EFFORTS IN THE COMMUNITY. THE GOAL IS TO DETERMINE AN UNDUPLICATED COUNT OF PARTICIPANTS SERVED TO BETTER INCREASE THEIR FOOD STABILITY.
  14. $7,500 spent. PROJECT CONNECT LINCOLN: A $7,500 ALLOCATION SUPPORTED PROJECT CONNECT LINCOLN, AN ANNUAL ONE-DAY EVENT PROVIDING DIRECT SERVICES AND RESOURCE NAVIGATION FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOUSING INSTABILITY. THE EVENT CONNECTS PARTICIPANTS WITH HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICE PROVIDERS TO ADDRESS BOTH IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM NEEDS.
  15. $7,071 spent. STABLE STRONG SUCCESSFUL: A $7,071 ALLOCATION SUPPORTS THIS INITIATIVE, WHICH STRENGTHENS COORDINATION AMONG COMMUNITY PARTNERS TO ENSURE FAMILIES CAN ACCESS RESOURCES THAT PROMOTE STABILITY AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY. THROUGH CASE MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMIC SUPPORT, THE PROGRAM IDENTIFIES SERVICE GAPS AND MOBILIZES RESOURCES TO ADDRESS UNMET NEEDS.
  16. $6,462 spent. RIDE UNITED LAST MILE DELIVERY: IN PARTNERSHIP WITH UNITED WAY WORLDWIDE, DOORDASH, AND THE FOOD BANK OF LINCOLN, THIS PROGRAM PROVIDES SAFE HOME DELIVERY OF FOOD TO HOUSEHOLDS EXPERIENCING HARDSHIP. IN 2024-2025, 1,072 BAGS OF SHELF-STABLE FOOD WERE DELIVERED WITH PROGRAM FUNDING TOTALING $6,462.
  17. $5,000 spent. LINCOLN VITAL SIGNS: UNITED WAY ALLOCATED $5,000 TO THIS COMMUNITY WIDE INITIATIVE WHOSE PURPOSE IS TO UPDATE THE VITAL SIGNS BI-ANNUAL REPORT AND FACILITATE EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY KEY COMMUNITY MEASUREMENTS, COLLECT SPECIFIC INFORMATION, AND ANALYZE TRENDS FOR USE IN IDENTIFYING FUNDING PRIORITIES AND TRACKING OUTCOMES.
  18. $3,222 spent. VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT: UNITED WAY'S CORPORATE COMMUNITY INITIATIVE ENGAGED EMPLOYEES IN MEANINGFUL VOLUNTEER PROJECTS, INCLUDING ASSEMBLING HYGIENE, LITERACY, AND SCHOOL SUPPLY KITS FOR COMMUNITY DISTRIBUTION. CORPORATE DONATIONS TOTALING $3,222 SUPPORTED THESE WORKPLACE VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES, STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND COLLECTIVE IMPACT.
  19. $70,000 spent. LINCOLN LANCASTER COUNTY RESPONSE FUND: UNITED WAY OF LINCOLN AND LANCASTER COUNTY, IN COLLABORATION WITH LOCAL FUNDERS AND BUSINESSES, ESTABLISHED THE LINCOLN-LANCASTER COUNTY RESPONSE FUND TO SUPPORT NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AFFECTED BY CHANGES IN FEDERAL FUNDING. THE FUND PRIORITIZES ASSISTANCE FOR ORGANIZATIONS SERVING FAMILIES EXPERIENCING ECONOMIC OR SITUATIONAL HARDSHIP IN LANCASTER COUNTY. FOCUS AREAS INCLUDE ACCESS TO CHILDCARE, HOUSING STABILITY AND HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION, FOOD SECURITY, HEALTHCARE ACCESS, FAMILY AND SURVIVOR SAFETY, SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES NEWLY RESETTLED IN THE COMMUNITY, AND SERVICES ADDRESSING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. DURING 20242025, $70,000 WAS RAISED, WITH ADDITIONAL FUNDING ANTICIPATED IN 20252026.
  20. $31,287 spent. LABOR PARTNERS UNITED (LPU): LABOR PARTNERS UNITED IS A NEW UNITED WAY AFFINITY GROUP FORMED BY MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL WORKFORCE TO ADVANCE UNITED WAY'S PILLARS OF EDUCATION, FINANCIAL STABILITY, AND HEALTH. IN ITS INAUGURAL YEAR, LPU RAISED AND ALLOCATED $31,287 TO SUPPORT YOUTH MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH INITIATIVES AT DAWES MIDDLE SCHOOL AND NEIGHBORHOOD FAMILY MOBILE RESOURCE CENTERS.
  21. $4,250 spent. SAFE SLEEP LANCASTER CONNECTED: THIS PROJECT PROMOTES SAFE INFANT SLEEP PRACTICES AND SEEKS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS) AND OTHER SLEEP-RELATED INFANT DEATHS THROUGH COMMUNITY-BASED PARTNERSHIPS. DURING 20242025, $4,250 IN FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES WAS USED TO PURCHASE AND DISTRIBUTE SAFE-SLEEP BASSINETS TO 39 HOUSEHOLDS. THE PROJECT WILL CONTINUE THROUGH 20252026 EXPANDING COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND ACCESS TO SAFE INFANT SLEEP RESOURCES.
  22. $494,360 spent. COMBINED HEALTH AGENCIES DRIVE (CHAD): UNITED WAY PARTNERS WITH CHAD TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE ANNUAL CAMPAIGN IN LINCOLN. CHAD PROGRAMS AND ORGANIZATIONS PROVIDE MEDICAL RESEARCH, PATIENT AND FAMILY SERVICES, AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY TO ASSIST INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES FACING CHRONIC ILLNESS. THE ALLOCATION FOR CHAD FROM THE 2024 CAMPAIGN WAS $494,360.
  23. $1.5 million spent. DESIGNATIONS: UNITED WAY PROCESSED $1,463,403 IN DONOR-DESIGNATED FUNDS. DONOR-DESIGNATED FUNDS ARE CONTRIBUTIONS SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED BY THE DONOR TO OTHER NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS. UNITED WAY OF LINCOLN AND LANCASTER COUNTY ACTS IN A FISCAL AGENT CAPACITY TO COLLECT, PROCESS, AND DISBURSE THE FUNDS. ORGANIZATIONS MUST HAVE TAX-EXEMPT STATUS AND BE COMPLIANT WITH THE PATRIOT ACT.
  24. $446,368 spent. PROGRAM GENERAL OPERATING COSTS: EXPENSES OF $476,068 WERE INCURRED BY THE ORGANIZATION TO ASSESS COMMUNITY NEEDS; PROVIDE OUTCOME MEASUREMENT TRAINING TO VARIOUS ENTITIES IN THE COMMUNITY; PROVIDE PROGRAM ASSESSMENT, REVIEW, AND SELECTION; ADMINISTER GRANTS; PROVIDE FINANCIAL AND STEWARDSHIP OVERSIGHT OF GRANT RECIPIENTS; AND PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ADVANCE COMMON GOALS IN THE THREE FOCUS AREAS OF EDUCATION, FINANCIAL STABILITY, AND HEALTH.

Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate

Legitimacy checks

  1. Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.

    Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

    Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.

  2. Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.

    Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.

    Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.

  3. Are donations tax-deductible? Passed.

    On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.

    Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.

  4. Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.

    Most recent return on file covers the year ending June 2025.

    Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.

  5. How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.

    Recognized by the IRS since December 1945.

    Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.

  6. Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.

    Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.

    Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated October 21, 2026.

Ratings and checks are our reading of public records, using the published method. They are not a statement about anyone's honesty. If you work for this organization, you can send corrections or results, confirm you want gifts through Veridonate, or ask to be removed from giving.