Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties

The Educational Navigators from our South Center build and enforce relationships amongst families. Accessible at-home visits from Navigators allow for a more comfortable environment that directly aids in problem-solving and making progress with difficult issues families face. To learn more about the Educational Navigators and Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties, head over to https://lnkd.in/gUnYTuRE

Our partners reflect the greatest strengths of the Omaha metro area, and we are proud to create robust programs with them by our side. Among these exceptional partners is Metropolitan Community College, which plays a crucial role in the Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties. Through this partnership, we create opportunities to improve skills in any field, ensuring that education is accessible and manageable. Metropolitan Community College’s commitment to helping individuals apply themselves toward brighter futures aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we strive to build a better tomorrow by empowering our community through education and skill development.

Families turn dreams of a college education into a plan in our college planning workshops. Through a partnership with the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) Service Learning Academy, families discover that college is within reach for children AND parents. In weekly field trips to the UNO campus, families learn about college life, the benefits of a college degree, the application process, and how to make college affordable.

Learning Community Center of South Omaha parents in GED classes increased their skills by three to four grade levels. WHY THIS MATTERS: Most parents find earning a GED is a requirement to succeed in the workforce, qualify for career training programs, or pursue a college degree, which will ultimately help the family find the economic stability that they need.

Through the two-generation approach, children in the Learning Community Center in North Omaha increased social-emotional skills, approaching or exceeding the national average in all areas. WHY THIS MATTERS: A child's social-emotional development provides a foundation for learning from elementary school to the workforce. When young children develop positive relationships at home and in school, they feel more secure in learning and building relationships.

Parent University is for you! Why join? Parenting is a tough job but you're not alone. EVERY parent needs support. You want your children to pursue their dreams. We do too. Check your eligibility so you can sign up, email parentu@learningcommunityds.org

This month we are featuring Anne O'Hara! Anne is our Learning Community South Director, and here is what she has to say: What inspired you to work at the Learning Community and how do you continue to stay motivated and passionate in your role? I am inspired by the Learning Community's mission to level the playing field for all children in our community. The wonderful children and families who attend programming at the center are my primary source of motivation, as well as working alongside our creative and dedicated team. Can you share a particularly memorable experience or success story from your time working at the Learning Community that has had a lasting impact on you? I have been fortunate to watch the children who attended our center program grow up over the years, and many are now in college or starting their careers. My favorite stories are those of young adults who participated as kids and now want to give back to the center because of how much it supported their families. Two of our recent hires attended our program with their mother over a decade ago.

Imani's journey embodies the resilience and hope that define our programs vision of a brighter tomorrow. Facing unimaginable challenges as a homeless, pregnant mother striving to provide for her children, she found solace in Parent University (PU). Supported by our dedicated team, Imani's life transformed as she secured a place to call home through Rapid Rehousing. With newfound stability, she welcomed a healthy new baby and witnessed her older children thriving in school, finally experiencing the safety and security they longed for. Immersing herself in PU's empowering programs, Imani completed classes like Getting Ahead and Workforce Development, equipping her with skills pivotal for future success. Motivated by her progress, she enrolled at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) to pursue a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license. This transformative pathway not only promised a job but a career offering long-term stability for her family. Imani's story is a testament to resilience and empowerment, showcasing the impact of PU's two-generation approach in ensuring both parents and children thrive together. We are honored to be part of Imani's journey, standing as pioneers of tomorrow, and we are committed to supporting her as she weaves a tapestry of hope and security for herself and her children. Together, let's pave the way for a brighter, more secure future, where empowerment and resilience reign supreme. #InnovationInAction #HopefulHorizons #TransformingTomorrows

Bowling Night at Parent University was a blast! Check out these shots from a great community-building event!