Omaha Nonprofits Reignite Development, Volunteerism, and Automotive Careers

Upcoming events and new leadership aim to transform the region through equitable solutions.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:57pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus image featuring blurred shapes and pools of warm, muted colors, conceptually representing the collaborative efforts of Omaha's nonprofit community to drive positive change.Omaha's nonprofit organizations are working to create a more vibrant and equitable community through innovative development initiatives and volunteer opportunities.Omaha Today

The Omaha area is seeing a surge of activity from local nonprofits, including the return of the Reignite to Unite Development Symposium, SHARE Omaha's annual Do Good Days, the opening of a model home by On Deck Housing, and an Automotive Career Exploration Day hosted by Metropolitan Community College. Additionally, Lily Haven has appointed a new board member, and the Henry Doorly Zoo has expanded its hours for spring and summer.

Why it matters

These initiatives demonstrate the vibrant nonprofit ecosystem in Omaha, which is working to address critical community needs around affordable housing, workforce development, and youth services. The events and new leadership aim to drive positive change and transformation across the region.

The details

The Reignite to Unite Development Symposium, presented by the Omaha Municipal Land Bank, SPARK CDI, and Front Porch Investments, will bring together development professionals to discuss equitable solutions for affordable housing, land activation, and community development. SHARE Omaha's Do Good Days will connect volunteers with opportunities at local nonprofits and community organizations. On Deck Housing has opened a model home as part of its effort to build 12 affordable homes in 2026, while Metropolitan Community College is hosting high school students for hands-on automotive activities. Lily Haven, a nonprofit supporting girls who have survived human trafficking, has appointed a new board member, Nick Koonce. The Henry Doorly Zoo has also expanded its hours for the spring and summer seasons.

  • The Reignite to Unite Development Symposium will take place on June 3 and 4, 2026.
  • SHARE Omaha's Do Good Days will run from April 22 to 25, 2026.
  • The Automotive Career Exploration Day at Metropolitan Community College will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • On Deck Housing's model home opened on April 1, 2026.
  • The Henry Doorly Zoo's new spring and summer hours began on April 1, 2026.

The players

Omaha Municipal Land Bank

A local organization that partners with the Reignite to Unite Development Symposium to address affordable housing and community development in the region.

SPARK CDI

A community development organization that co-presents the Reignite to Unite Development Symposium.

Front Porch Investments

A nonprofit that collaborates with the Omaha Municipal Land Bank and SPARK CDI on the Reignite to Unite Development Symposium.

SHARE Omaha

A nonprofit that connects volunteers with opportunities at local organizations through its annual Do Good Days event.

On Deck Housing

A nonprofit that builds affordable homes in the Omaha metro area and has opened a model home.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Charles Marohn, founder and president of Strong Towns, was named one of the '10 Most Influential Urbanists' of all time by Planetizen.”

— Charles Marohn, Founder and President, Strong Towns

What’s next

The Reignite to Unite Development Symposium will take place on June 3 and 4, 2026, bringing together development professionals to discuss equitable solutions for the Omaha region.

The takeaway

Omaha's vibrant nonprofit community is driving positive change through initiatives that address critical needs around affordable housing, workforce development, and youth services. These events and new leadership demonstrate the city's commitment to transforming the region and building a more equitable future.