The Omaha Community Foundation is being recognized for the organization’s work in the community.
The Foundation received a 2023 Business Excellence Award in Philanthropy from the Omaha Chamber of Commerce. The award is part of the Chamber’s annual tradition recognizing area organizations in four categories: Leadership, Innovation, Philanthropy, and Sustained Excellence.
“Thriving communities rely on businesses to drive innovation, generate employment opportunities, and foster social connections. Attributing success to hard work and dedication, we proudly recognize the … organizations being honored as more than just excellent – they are truly exceptional,” said Tim Burke, interim president and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber.
The Omaha Community Foundation was created in 1982, first functioning primarily as a charitable bank for Omaha and Southwest Iowa philanthropists. Since then, the team’s community knowledge has grown, programming has expanded, partnerships have been forged, and the Foundation has become a regional thought leader in philanthropy and community investment.
“Community is really at the heart of everything we do at the Omaha Community Foundation,” said Donna Kush, President and CEO. “We strive to be a catalyst for good by connecting people, ideas, and funding – whether that’s in our work helping other nonprofits build their capacity, helping fundholders support their favorite causes, or responding to urgent needs in the community, like the closure of the Legacy Crossing Apartment Complex.”
In December 2022, OCF partnered with the City of Omaha and Heartland Family Service to provide immediate and ongoing support to families displaced when the Legacy Crossing apartments were closed for health and safety reasons. OCF raised more than $260,000 from the community, fundholders and other organizations to directly serve people who suddenly found themselves without a home on some of the coldest days of the year.
More than 70 companies were nominated for this year’s awards, with just 17 businesses identified as award recipients, “trailblazers who go above and beyond every day,” according to event organizers.
About the Omaha Community Foundation
The Omaha Community Foundation uses both established philanthropic strategies and innovative programs to address our area’s social and economic needs. By mindfully connecting donors to local nonprofits and helping direct resources to areas that will strengthen our community, the Omaha Community Foundation has positively impacted thousands of organizations.
In 2022, OCF distributed more than $224 million in grants to more than 3,100 nonprofits. OCF manages $1.6 billion in assets and has granted more than $2 billion since its formation in 1982.
Learn more at OmahaFoundation.org.