Tis the Season for Giving

As I considered the topic for this week’s blog, it occurred to me how fortunate I am to be able to have a career doing what I’m passionate about. With that in mind, I wanted to do something a little different with today’s blog. Instead of design, I’m going to be writing about what this season is really all about, giving. I’m a true believer that once you start to realize your goals, you have to turn around and help the next person in line. Sometimes that means mentorship or career counseling. And sometimes that means fulfilling a need in the community. Locally, and especially this year, we have many in need and here are some ways we can all help.

Open Door Mission

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This one is located in West Omaha right in my own back yard. It’s a mission whose goal is to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. They have some urgent needs that are extremely easy to contribute to and certainly worth a few minutes of time. The first one is called Project Santa. If you go to their website at https://www.opendoormission.org/urgent-needs/project-santa you will find a link where you can easily shop for toys that go to needy boys and girls so that everyone will have gifts on Christmas morning. You don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own home. How easy is that? Additionally, they have a program called Christmas bells. This one is for the adults who need some love at this time of year. It provides gifts for hurting adults who are lonely and need to know someone cares. You can help by hosting a drive to collect these much-needed gifts. Hosting a drive has never been easier! https://www.opendoormission.org/urgent-needs/christmas-bells

The Lane Thomas Foundation

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This one is near and dear to my heart. It was founded by close friends of mine. Imagine being a family with a child that must have an organ or multiple organs transplanted. The expense of caring for that child including travel, lodging, meals, etc. that are not covered by health insurance can be overwhelming. Often times, one spouse will have to quit their job to dedicate time to their child’s care, but the bills still must be paid. The foundation provides support in this area with contributions towards non-medical expenses. It’s a cause well worth contributing toward. https://www.lanethomas.org/donate

Realtor Ring Day

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This past week, a few of the team members from the Priority Group pitched in and donated their time to the Salvation Army by ringing the ever so well know bell and filling those red pots with some cash. You can help out with monetary donations as well as donations of lightly used household items. What better time than when you have to dig out all the holiday decorations to clean out that storage space and get rid of some of those items that you haven’t used in a long time? The Salvation Army will sell your things at their thrift stores and the proceeds are used to fund their adult rehabilitation centers where those struggling with drugs and alcohol find help, hope, and a second chance at life. An excellent way to make an impact in our community. https://satruck.org

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

In 2020, Habitat Omaha built or renovated more than 40 homes. Additionally, they completed up to 140 home repair or improvement projects, expanding their impact through critical repairs and services for veterans, people with disabilities and the elderly. One of the things that Habitat does is build homes for those in need. A homeowner needs to put in up to 350 hours of sweat equity before purchasing their home. I personally have volunteered my time in building one of the Habitat communities and the satisfaction of helping is tremendous. They will accept your time, money, and household items like gently used kitchen cabinets and appliances that you have left over from your home renovation. https://habitatomaha.org

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For more information on the Priority Group, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com