In Omaha, a dedicated collective of philanthropists is committed to making a tangible difference in the community by understanding both the business and nonprofit worlds and supporting efforts for local change. Founded in 2002, the Omaha Venture Group (OVG) has supported 174 local nonprofits and granted more than $700,000.

OVG welcomes a diverse array of professionals — from financial planners to architects to nonprofit leaders — united by a passion for community service. Membership offers opportunities for leadership, education, and networking, and the chance to directly influence the nonprofit landscape in Omaha. The group added nine new members this year.

Chandler Green, vice chair of OVG, shared her journey since joining the group in 2018, highlighting the transformative experiences she’s had as a member. From organizing community events to deeply engaging with nonprofits, Green emphasized OVG’s unique role in amplifying the impact of charitable giving. “OVG isn’t just about writing checks,” she said, “it’s about getting involved, learning, and making a meaningful difference.” 

OVG chair Brady Marlow reflected on his tenure, expressing pride in OVG’s evolution and the personal growth it fosters among members. “It’s about more than philanthropy,” Brady said. “It’s about inspiring future leaders and creating a lasting legacy of community service.” 

2024 Grant Night: Celebrating Impact and Innovation 

The pinnacle of OVG’s annual calendar is Grant Night, a celebration where members gather to recognize and support outstanding nonprofits that are addressing critical needs in Omaha. Hosted by Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture, this year’s event marked the culmination of months of deliberation and community involvement. A total of $29,000 was awarded to four nonprofits – one from each of OVG’s four core focus areas. 

The 2024 grant recipients exemplify OVG’s mission to foster innovation and community impact: 

  • Arts and Culture: Youth for Greater Good, a nonprofit dedicated to serving Omaha’s South Sudanese community through educational and community-building initiatives – $6,790 
  • Education and Workforce: It’s All About Employment, which empowers individuals transitioning out of homelessness by facilitating sustainable employment opportunities – $7,680 
  • Neighborhoods, Civic Engagement, and Safety: Radio Talking Book Service enhances accessibility in cultural events through audio description equipment, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with low vision – $6,530 

Tamike Mease, Executive Director of the North Omaha Community Partnership, said their project would not be possible without the grant. The organization offers a space for those who would not be comfortable in a traditional therapy environment. 

“This grief and crisis therapy is for people who may not be open to sitting down with a licensed therapist, but they do feel comfortable with a peer-led group,” Mease said. “This opens up more accessibility in the North Omaha community with our partner Grief’s Journey. Some of our volunteers have the same lived experience, so they can relate to the people they are serving and contribute to their healing process.” 

Impact Beyond Funding: OVG’s Unique Approach 

OVG stands out not only for its financial contributions but also for its hands-on approach to philanthropy. Members like Josef Ghaussy, who joined to better understand local issues and contribute to his community in meaningful ways, attest to OVG’s role in educating and empowering its members. By facilitating site visits and direct engagement with nonprofit leaders, OVG ensures that grants are not just awarded but strategically invested to maximize impact. 

One example is an event where OVG members packed more than 100 period products for local distribution alongside Access Period while enjoying food from House of Bah, both 2023 grantees.

As OVG looks ahead to the future under Chandler Green’s leadership, the organization remains committed to expanding its impact and outreach. With a robust framework for engagement between the business and nonprofit worlds, this is an opportunity for people new to Omaha or new to philanthropy to get involved. 

By investing in innovative solutions and fostering a culture of philanthropy, OVG participants work towards a thriving, inclusive Omaha. 

The people of OVG

Executive Leadership

  • Chair: Brady Marlow
  • Vice Chair: Chandler Green
  • OCF Co-Chairs: Wynter Davis and Eyerusalem Gehringer
  • Nonprofit Selection Committee: Jeff Huether and Joe Woster
  • Membership Development Committee: Jamie Pieper
  • Arts and Culture Interest Group: Liz Kerrigan
  • Education and Workforce Interest Group: Adam Fritz
  • Health Interest Group: Bryce Koch
  • Neighborhoods, Civic Engagement, and Safety: Josef Ghaussy

Grant Making Members

  • Tessa Barney – Omaha Community Foundation
  • Andy Brabec – Borsheims
  • Wynter Davis – Omaha Community Foundation
  • Dante Dovali – BCDM Architects
  • Adam Fritz – Gallup
  • Eyerusalem Gehringer – Omaha Community Foundation
  • Josef Ghaussy – Hub International Limited
  • Chandler Green – Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture
  • Conner Holt – FORVIS
  • Max Huerter – Sheppard’s Business Interiors
  • Jeff Huether – Blue Cross Blue Sheild of Nebraska
  • Liz Kerrigan – Farm Credit Services of America
  • Bryce Koch – Hiley Hunt Wealth Management
  • Brady Marlow – Carson Wealth
  • Kelly Nielsen – Omaha Community Foundation
  • Jamie Pieper – Peer Sales Agency
  • Martina Slater – Google
  • Michael Swanger – FNBO
  • Emily Tosoni – Baird Holm
  • Timothy Vaughan – Google
  • Ben Wellman – Bluestone Development
  • Andrew Wesely – Sheppard’s Business Interiors
  • Joe Woster – Blue Cross Blue Sheild of Nebraska
  • Brittany Wozny – Ervin & Smith

Subscribing Members

  • Halla Ahovissi – Accenture
  • Emily McKenna – Immigrant Legal Center + Refugee Empowerment Center
  • Daniel Padilla – OpsCompass
  • Olivia Reed
  • Jessica Schaaf – Business Ethics Alliance of Omaha

Join OVG!

If you are interested in more information, you can learn about commitments and benefits here or you can email ovg@omahafoundation.org.