Welcoming Summer Convening Session 3: We’re All In for Lived Expertise on Local Boards
2024-08-09 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
We know that people who have lived expertise as immigrant community members, leaders of color, and other diverse backgrounds bring fresh perspectives and experiences that enrich decision making, and can deepen understanding of community dynamics, but how do we ensure new members and the board are prepared? What are the expectations and duties of board members? How will the board receive new ideas? We’ll explore how to prepare new board members and the boards themselves.

Justice Reimagined: A Community Conversation
2024-08-19 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | RISE Reentry Office, 3555 Farnam St Suite 501, Omaha, NE, 68131, United States
Join Nebraska Appleseed and RISE Reentry Program for a Justice Reimagined Community Conversation on Monday, August 19th from 5:15pm-7:00pm in the RISE Reentry Office.
We’ll host a conversation, eat tasty food, play games, and more! This is an open house event, so come at the time that works best for you.
Family and friends are welcomed!! Please use this form to register and let us know that you’re coming!

Nebraska Statewide Housing Advocates Grill-Out
2024-08-22 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Turbine Flats (Resonator Gallery), 2124 Y St, Flat 121, Lincoln, NE, 68503, United States
Join us for an evening of community and connection at the Statewide Housing Advocates Grill-out, co-hosted by Collective Impact Lincoln and NeighborWorks Lincoln! Enjoy a shared meal and engaging conversations as we explore ways to use our collective power to strengthen housing advocacy in Lincoln.
We’ll provide a variety of grilled favorites, including burgers and hot dogs with veggie options, and you’re welcome to bring a side dish to share. Children are welcome to join us for story time and art activities. Our goal is to promote and support systems that provide affordable, accessible, and safe housing for all.
Sign up to let us know you’re coming: bit.ly/SHAGO
By filling out the form, you consent to receive reminder emails about the event. Signing up through this form is not required to attend. There are options at the bottom of the form to sign up for additional communication related to housing advocacy. A food item is not required for attendance.
Contact Sam Meier-Bates with any questions, feedback, or to join our housing advocate listserv: sam.meierbates@civicnebraska.org
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/466386529686587
We look forward to seeing you there!

Welcoming Week 2024
2024-09-13 08:00 - 2024-09-22 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us for Welcoming Week 2024 from September 13-22! This year’s theme “We’re All In” aims to go deeper and spark individual reflection on how and why belonging occurs, and ways we can break barriers to foster belonging for all, including immigrants and refugees.
Here in Nebraska and across the country and globe, community members are practicing what makes welcoming places and fosters belonging for all people.
Browse Statewide Events

Housing Advocates: Community Organizing 101
2024-09-19 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | F St Community Center, 1225 F St, Lincoln, NE, 68508, United States
Join us for a Community Organizing 101 workshop, where you’ll connect with other advocates from across Lincoln over a shared meal and learn how to unite your community to drive meaningful change. Community organizing is a powerful tool in housing advocacy, empowering individuals to come together, identify common issues, and collectively work towards solutions that promote safe, affordable, and equitable housing for all. This workshop will provide you with the skills and strategies needed to mobilize your community, amplify renters’ voices, and push for the housing justice we all deserve.
Children are welcome!
RSVP online at: bit.ly/LNKCommunityOrganizing101
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/neVWy2KSqk8CKyzf/
Lincoln Housing Advocate’s goal is to promote and support systems that provide affordable, accessible and safe housing for all!
Contact Lizzie Turner with any questions, feedback, accessibility needs & to join our Housing Advocate listserv: lturner@upgrade.neappleseed.org

Justice Reimagined: A Community Conversation
2024-09-21 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St, Lincoln, NE, 68508, United States
To end the cycles of incarceration, we must be open to having hard conversations, especially when Black and Brown communities are the most impacted, but the ones not often invited to the table.
That’s why we’re co-hosting another community conversation with our friends at RISE: to uplift the voices of those who have been incarcerated and impacted by changes brought to the justice system.
Come learn about how new laws in Nebraska may impact those who are currently incarcerated or have been incarcerated.
All are welcome to this community conversation! We hope you’ll join us as we come together to hear from those with lived experience – and those who have been second-hand impacted by the incarceration of a loved one.
Register

Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Lincoln)
2024-09-24 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Educare Lincoln, 3425 N 14th St, Lincoln, NE, 68521, United States
Join us for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign.
Register online.

Supporter Happy Hour
2024-09-25 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Rooted Books, 315 N Locust, Grand Island, NE, 68801, United States
You’re invited to gather with Nebraska Appleseed, Elevate Grand Island, and Young Professionals of Color for a supporter happy hour!
You’ll learn more about the work each group is doing in the community and throughout the state; meet staff and other advocates; and learn how you can get involved. It’s also an opportunity to check out Rooted Books, Grand Island’s newest bookstore, and enjoy refreshments from Deliboards.
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Casual; come and go as you please: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Brief Program at 6:00 p.m.
Rooted Books & Gifts
315 N Locust, Grand Island, NE 68801
RSVP is not required but appreciated to help us anticipate numbers.
Questions? Contact Denni Mitchell at dmitchell@upgrade.neappleseed.org

Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Grand Island)
2024-10-01 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | YWCA Grand Island, 211 E Fonner Park Rd, Grand Island, NE, 68801, United States

Good Apple Awards
2024-10-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom, 4920 S 30th St, Omaha, 68107, United States
Join us for Nebraska Appleseed’s annual Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments.

Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 1 (Lincoln)
2024-10-14 13:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Nebraska State Capitol, 1445 K St, Lincoln, NE, 68509, United States
If you are interested in sharing your support for paid sick leave, you can share your testimony in three to five minutes in front of staff from the Secretary of State’s office. There is no recording or official public record of these hearings, but it allows voters the opportunity to learn more from their own community members about support for each initiative.

Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation w/ OutNebraska
2024-10-15 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago)
Join Nebraska Appleseed and OutNebraska in Omaha on October 15th for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign.
Check-in starts at 5:30!
Register

Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Omaha)
2024-10-15 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Omaha ForUs, 3337 N 107th St, Omaha, NE, 68134, United States
Join Nebraska Appleseed and OutNebraska for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign.
Register online.

Scoops of Support Day
2024-10-17 | eCreamery, 5001 Underwood Ave, Omaha, NE, United States
Throughout October, you can get a special Appleseed ice cream at eCreamery in Omaha (5001 Underwood Ave) and support Appleseed’s mission!
eCreamery has created a special Good Apple Crisp caramel apple ice cream containing brown sugar crumble and caramel swirls. $1 of every pint sold will be donated to Nebraska Appleseed.
On Thursday, October 17, eCreamery will donate 10% of all sales to Nebraska Appleseed during their Scoops of Support Day. From 5pm-7pm you can meet Appleseed staff, enjoy some ice cream, and learn more about our efforts building a better Nebraska.

Justice Reimagined: A Virtual Community Conversation
2024-10-21 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join Nebraska Appleseed and RISE for a community conversation on legislative bills that impact the incarcerated and post-incarceration folx in Nebraska!
Register

Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 3 (Ogallala)
2024-10-21 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver) | NACO West Springs Center, 102 Diamond Springs Trail, Ogallala, NE, 69153, United States

Ballot Breakdown
2024-10-22 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
This year’s election is going to be incredibly important for so many Nebraskans, with measures ranging from Paid Sick Leave to Reproductive Care. Voting is an incredible way to get a direct say in legislation that can deeply impact yourself and many others.
Join us and other community members on Monday, October 22nd from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM CT for a virtual workshop highlighting how you can use the power of your voice to advocate on the ballot this year and have a direct say in the issues impacting you. We will cover important voter ID information, the 4 ballot measure topics including paid sick leave, school voucher programs, medical marijuana, and abortion. We will discuss what the implementation looks like, their timelines, who it will directly impact, and what the language is.
This virtual session is open to anyone who wants an easy guide on how to navigate this year’s ballot! No previous experience or knowledge is required! Bring yourself, invite your friends, and join the conversation.

Housing Advocate Potluck
2024-10-24 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Peter Pan Park, 32nd & W, Lincoln, NE, 68503, United States
Is your housing situation spooky? Tell us more at our Halloween Housing Advocates Potluck + Costume Party! Join Lincoln Housing Advocates to connect with fellow Lincolnites over a shared meal and discussion of how we can collectively advance affordable, safe, and accessible housing for all Lincolnites! Children are welcome! RSVP at bit.ly/Oct-26-Potluck >>> An extended event description is available on the RSVP form and FB event page.

Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 2 (Omaha)
2024-10-25 13:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | The Thompson Alumni Center, Bootstrapper Hall 6705 Dodge St, Omaha, NE, 68182, United States

Urban Abbey: Community Partner of the Month
2024-11-01 - 2024-11-30 | Urban Abbey, 1026 Jackson Street, Omaha, NE, 68102, United States
Nebraska Appleseed is the Urban Abbey‘s Community Partner of the Month this November!
That means that 10% of Urban Abbey’s coffee bar sales will be donated to Nebraska Appleseed throughout the entire month.
If you’re in Omaha, please consider Urban Abbey (1026 Jackson St) for your coffee, tea, or smoothie needs this month. It’s a wonderful place to work, study, or host a meeting!
Snap and selfie while you’re there and tag @neappleseed and @urbanabbey on social media!

Housing Advocate Summit: Advancing Renters' Rights and Equity in Housing - Day 1
2024-11-15 12:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | UNL East Campus Union, 1705 Arbor Dr, Lincoln, NE, 68503, United States
Register here: https://forms.gle/HWr9ddRPWGTrdnAm7
*Signing up through this form is not required to attend, but it is helpful!
In Nebraska, the housing crisis is a stark reality for many, with 89% of extremely low-income renters unable to afford even basic housing. Affordable housing remains a distant dream for a quarter of the state’s renters, and across all income levels, a wage of $20.32 per hour is required just to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment. This is not just about numbers; it’s about the lived experiences of countless renters who face insurmountable barriers to safe, accessible, and affordable housing.We are strongest when we work together, so join us to strengthen our community as advocates and build our collective knowledge as we continue to advocate for justice in housing.
This event is dedicated to being a welcoming and inclusive space, amplifying the experiences of folks who are most impacted by the housing crisis. We know that it takes all of us from across the social change ecosystem to reach the positive housing futures we seek, and in our current society, it is most frequently the voices of those with the most resources whose perspectives are tended to. Together, we will strive to uplift the voices of those who aren’t always heard— renters, Black, indigenous, and people of color, survivors of domestic violence, single parents, immigrants, LGBTQ+ community members, low-income folks, formerly-incarcerated individuals, and those with disabilities. Your presence is vital. Please let us know how we can support your participation, including any accommodations you may need.
We will have Spanish interpreters and childcare available to ensure everyone can take part.
Workshops will include:

Learnings from tenant unions
How to Make Your Voice Heard in Nebraska’s State Legislature
Renter’s Rights Training
Art for Advocacy
Presentation from the Tenant Assistance Project
Coffee Hour with Senators
Advocate Speed Chatting
Organizing 101
And more!

We will also have opportunities for community building and community care such as resource sharing, get to know each other activities, group walks, shared meals, and more!
Regarding COVID-19 and community care: If you are feeling unwell or have been in close contact with someone who is feeling unwell, please stay home. Likewise, if you suspect that you have contracted or been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home. COVID-19 is a threat to the safety and wellbeing of all people, but especially for disabled, immunocompromised, and folks with high risk factors. These communities are also disproportionately impacted by many of the housing issues our group seeks to address, so let’s keep their safety in mind. Collective Impact Lincoln will provide KN95 masks to participants who wish to wear them to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
View information here to view bus routes to UNL East Union: https://parking.unl.edu/city-east-campus-routes
Contact Lizzie Turner with any questions, feedback, accessibility needs & to join our Housing Advocate listserv: lturner@upgrade.neappleseed.org

Housing Advocate Summit: Advancing Renters' Rights and Equity in Housing - Day 2
2024-11-16 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | UNL East Campus Union, 1705 Arbor Dr, Lincoln, NE, 68503, United States

A 2025 Preview with Nebraska Appleseed
2024-11-19 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Urban Abbey, 1026 Jackson Street, Omaha, NE, 68102, United States
Join Appleseed for a preview of the 2025 legislative session and the priorities that will be shaping our work next year. Hear directly from our State and Federal Policy Directors and learn how you can help create a more just and inclusive Nebraska for all.

Lincoln for Fair Housing Launch Party
2024-12-12 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | NeighborWorks Lincoln Meeting Room, 2530 Q St, Lincoln, NE, 68503, United States
Join Lincoln for Fair Housing for our Ballot Initiative Launch Party!
We’ll see you at NeighborWorks Lincoln on Tuesday, December 12th, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. for a potluck gathering with a special treat from Yia Yia’s, discussion of the housing futures we seek, and an overview of how you can help us advance fair housing by banning source of income discrimination in Lincoln.
We need you, your neighbors, your family, and your friends to join us in this movement for fair housing. It takes all of us to enact positive change, and we are stronger when we work together. Let’s unite this December 12th and declare our commitment to advancing fair housing for all Lincolnites!

“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 1: To the State of the Good Life
2025-01-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska, and experiences of belonging.
These three films feature local Nebraskans’ stories! Following each film, we will speak with the filmmakers and people who have this lived experience—all with the aim of enhancing our understanding of our neighbors. Make a cup of cocoa, turn on your virtual fireplace, and join us for the film and discussion:
To the State of the Good Life is an intimate exploration of the American Dream through the eyes of Raúl Arcos Hawkins, a community leader and DACA recipient in Grand Island, Nebraska. The film delves into Raúl’s journey, weaving his personal aspirations, contributions to his community, and his work ethic with the uncertainty he and other Dreamers across the country face.
Raúl Arcos Hawkins, executive director of the Multicultural Coalition of Grand Island, and Robert William Stevens, storyteller, filmmaker will join us for discussion following the film screening!

How to Advocate for Food Access in the NE Legislature
2025-01-23 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Everyone needs food. Let’s talk about how we can advocate to make it easier for people to get the food they need this Nebraska Legislative session.
Join us on Thursday, January 23rd from 5:30-7:00 pm CT to learn about the food access bills that have been introduced in the Nebraska Legislature for 2025. We’ll share an overview of bills that could impact…

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps)
Child Nutrition Programs (like school meals for kids)
And everything else food access!

We’ll also share tools and tips to help you advocate for the bills you care about plus ways to stay up to date on legislative actions.
This webinar is for ANYONE interested in learning more about food access and how to use their voice to make change! No previous knowledge or experience required! Let’s make sure our state senators make the responsible choice when it comes to feeding Nebraska!
Register
Facebook Event

“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 2: Cultures in the Crossfade: Lincoln
2025-01-28 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska, and experiences of belonging.
These three films feature local Nebraskans’ stories! Following each film, we will speak with the filmmakers and people who have this lived experience—all with the aim of enhancing our understanding of our neighbors. Make a cup of cocoa, turn on your virtual fireplace, and join us for the film and discussion:
This 20-minute documentary Cultures in the Crossfade tells the story of the international musicians who found a home and new life paths in Nebraska. The “crossfader” is a tool of DJ mixing, used to mix without erasing, to combine without destroying, to juggle and sustain differences similar to these musicians who bond over making music together. Musicians who had not played together nor shared the same styles of music bond over new music created as they bring their experiences and cultures together.
Hasan Khalil, musician, barber and community builder and Josh Kun, author, academic and music critic will join us for discussion following the film screening.

“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 3: The Healing of Harman
2025-02-04 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska, and experiences of belonging.
These three films feature local Nebraskans’ stories! Following each film, we will speak with the filmmakers and people who have this lived experience—all with the aim of enhancing our understanding of our neighbors. Make a cup of cocoa, turn on your virtual fireplace, and join us for the film and discussion:
The Healing of Harman follows a Kurdish refugee named Harman Doski who has made a new life for himself in the heartland of America. Halfway across the world, his past catches up with him when he meets a mysterious man who asks for help with life and death consequences. A short film about hope, faith and forgiveness.
Julie Uribe, writer, will join us for discussion following the film screening.

2025 Legislative Update with Nebraska Appleseed
2025-02-13 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, February 13th to hear important updates about the 2025 Nebraska Legislative session. Get an update on important priority bills and learn how you can get involved during the rest of the legislative session.
Our State Policy Director, Katie Pitts, will lead a presentation starting at 5:30, followed by a Q&A session.
Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QhPAUqncSlq2xxJKOq2kaQ#/registration

Letters to Our Senators
2025-02-27 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Nebraska Appleseed, 947 O St Suite 401, Lincoln, NE, 68521, United States
Join us to write to our Senators to encourage them to support legislation that will support justice and opportunity for all Nebraska. Help us tell our law makers that they need to listen to us!
We will provide letter writing kits and dinner to all participants, friends and family are welcome!
