The City of Omaha took a bold step in addressing the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic by launching the ARPA Community Grants Program, a strategic initiative designed to support nonprofits working in crisis intervention, violence prevention, and workforce development. With $9.6 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) managed the grant distribution, ensuring resources were directed to organizations making the greatest impact.

A Community-Wide Impact

Through this program, 35 nonprofit organizations received critical funding, reaching over 24,500 individuals across 30 ZIP codes, with a focus on underserved areas. Among those served, 60% were youth under 18, and 80% identified as people of color, demonstrating the initiative’s commitment to equity and inclusion.

By strategically investing in existing programs, the City of Omaha and OCF helped nonprofits expand services and build sustainability. Grant recipients saw a 25% increase in operating budgets from 2022 to 2024, reinforcing their ability to serve the community long-term.

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Addressing Urgent Needs

The program prioritized four key areas:

  • Violence Prevention: Supported youth mentorship and gang prevention efforts, awarding $3.98 million to organizations fostering safer neighborhoods.
  • Community-Based Services: Expanded access to mental health support and therapy, providing $2.13 million to organizations enhancing behavioral health care.
  • Workforce Development: Funded job training, employment readiness, and certification programs, distributing $1.64 million to workforce initiatives.
  • Crisis Intervention: Assisted families in crisis with housing, food security, and safety resources, with $1.85 million dedicated to this work.

Strengthening Omaha’s Nonprofit Sector

Beyond direct funding, the ARPA Community Grants Program helped nonprofits gain experience managing large-scale federal grants, preparing them for future opportunities. Many organizations expanded services, hired new staff, and developed innovative programs to meet evolving community needs.

For example:

  • Charles Drew Health Center expanded its trauma-informed care, providing culturally relevant support for Omaha’s youth.
  • Siena Francis House used funding to provide over 29,000 nights of transitional housing and 13,000 hours of behavioral services for young mothers.
  • AIM Institute launched culturally responsive tech education programs to reduce barriers for Spanish-speaking communities.

Read impact stories os how the ARPA funds allowed nonprofits to serve individuals locally:

A Collaborative Effort

This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the City of Omaha’s partnership with OCF, whose expertise in nonprofit funding ensured that resources were allocated efficiently and equitably. The United Way of the Midlands also played a key role in distributing additional ARPA funds to support local initiatives.

The City of Omaha ARPA Community Grants Program exemplifies how strategic investment in nonprofits can create lasting change, building a stronger, more resilient community for years to come.

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