Omaha Non-Profits Expand Services and Celebrate Milestones

Avenue Scholars, Youth Emergency Services, and MICAH House make big moves to support local communities

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:08pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph showing a group of young people gathered around a table, engaged in conversation and activities, with a warm, dreamlike quality to the lighting and composition.A community-focused non-profit program in Omaha provides hands-on training and support to help young people discover new career paths and build brighter futures.Omaha Today

Several non-profit organizations in the Omaha area are making significant strides, including Avenue Scholars launching new career exploration boot camps, Youth Emergency Services opening a centralized housing and services hub, and MICAH House celebrating 40 years of providing emergency shelter.

Why it matters

These initiatives demonstrate the ongoing commitment of Omaha's non-profit sector to address critical community needs, from youth homelessness and job training to food access for immigrant families. The expansion of services and milestone achievements highlight the vital role these organizations play in supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening the local community.

The details

Avenue Scholars is holding its third annual career exploration boot camps in collaboration with Metropolitan Community College and Clarkson College, providing hands-on training in healthcare, skilled trades, and transportation. Youth Emergency Services has opened the YES House, a new 24-apartment, 32-bed housing and services hub for young people facing homelessness, offering increased access to food, clothing, mental health support, and community partnerships. The Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement, in partnership with Together, is starting a food delivery program to support local immigrant and refugee families facing barriers to accessing groceries. MICAH House, an emergency shelter in Council Bluffs, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

  • The third annual Avenue Scholars Day will be held on April 15, 2026.
  • Youth Emergency Services anticipates housing all staff and core services at the YES House by Fall 2027.
  • MICAH House celebrated its 40th anniversary this week.

The players

Avenue Scholars

A non-profit organization that provides career exploration and job training programs for students in the Omaha area.

Youth Emergency Services

A non-profit that offers housing, support services, and resources for young people experiencing homelessness in Omaha.

Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement

A non-profit that works to support and empower immigrant and refugee communities in the Omaha area.

MICAH House

An emergency shelter located in Council Bluffs, Nebraska that has been providing services for 40 years.

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The takeaway

Omaha's non-profit community continues to demonstrate its resilience and commitment to serving the most vulnerable populations in the region. These expansions of services and milestone achievements underscore the vital role these organizations play in addressing pressing social issues and strengthening the local community.