Mouthwatering Community Service/Non-Profit in Omaha

Buena Vista YMCA Express

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"I'm not into "fitness culture" and I am intimidated by gyms. This is the perfect gym to help someone like me to stay in shape.This is a small Y embedded in the new Buena Vista High School (opened 2023). It's in the southwest corner of the building, just to the left of the main school entrance. It's best if you enter from L Street then stay to the left. They don't seem to be overrun by students, and there is dedicated parking. There are no small children running around. The intimate, welcoming environment attracts people of all shapes, sizes, colors, ages, and abilities.What this location doesn't have: CROWDS, a pool, fresh towels, kids activities, childcare, or large classes. No spinning, Tai Chi, aerobics, Tai Kwan Do, or basketball. No late evening hours. Your memberhip lets you go to other Y locations to access those things if you want them. What this location does have: weights, a few treadmills, bikes, rowing machines, semiprivate showers, Egym weight machines, and easy access to friendly staff for advice. They have a few small-group classes aimed at general health and fitness. The Egym machines are the big deal here; each machine helps you exercise a particular part of your body. The Egym system automatically adjusts each machine to fit your body and fitness level, so you don't have to carry around a clipboard or remember how to make all of the adjustments. A video screen shows you how far and how fast to move so you can exercise without hurting yourself. It's really quite easy and non-intimidating.The YMCA membership price is a little more expensive than basic memberhip at gyms like Blue Moon or Planet Fitness. But the money goes to a good cause, and you can count on them being ethical. They won't keep charging your credit card if you decide to cancel.As with any gym, I won't be posting interior photos out of respect for the other customers, but you can find photos on the Facebook page or on the Metro YMCA website."

SP CE Commons

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"SP CE Commons is an open-community in Lincoln built around the premise of cultivating community in a positive, creative atmosphere.Located in the South Downtown neighborhood of Lincoln, the SP CE Commons is a place where people can meet to participate in a broad range of activities such as the Saturday Writer's Group and the Sunday Morning Meditation Group. During the week there are various other activities scheduled in addition to open hours.The people you will meet there tend to be genuine, friendly and welcoming of newcomers. There are many events hosted there on a semi-regular basis including potluck dinners, theatrical performances and community discussions.Right now the web presence is a bit lacking, but the best place to stay abreast of upcoming events is the chalkboard or via the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/spZcecommons .If you are a creative type or just a human that cares about cultivating community in Lincoln, the SP CE Commons is worth a look."

Czech and Slovak Educational Center and Museum

★★★★★ 4.8 (4)

"Whoever says there's nothing cool at Crossroads has never been to the Czech and Slovak Educational Center and Museum. First up, you can eat fresh kolaches and drink coffee there. Plus grab other Czech snacks in the little cafe area. From there, check out the gift shop full of all kinds of fun stuff, from art books to crafts to marionettes. So many marionettes. Some of them are some so special, they're on display in the museum portion. And the ones that are for sale ain't exactly cheap, but they are quality (this is coming from a guy who went to marionette camp when he was like 13 so I kinda know).There's plenty of other displays of traditional dress and pieces of Omaha's thriving Czech community -- old band equipment from a polka group, tables/settings from the Bohemian Cafe, a bunch of accordions, motorcycles and more. In the back area, there's even a small theater space where the walls are adorned with history trees of part of Nebraska's Czech population. And many descendants still call the Good Life home.Sure it's in an old Chili's, but the CSECM is def worth a visit."

Sandhills Global Event Center

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"This is one of nicest horse facilities anywhere that we have been. Just finished Bonus Race Finals and is scheduled Tulsa, OK next year instead of Lincoln. Big mistake, lots of people agree."

Do Space

"An absolutely amazing organization located in the old Borders Building on the corner of 72nd and DodgeThe primary goal/focus is to provide computer and technology training to all for no charge. Do Space is a registered 501c3 non-profit. The space itself is quite impressive. High ceilings and rows upon rows of computers available for use as you walk in (both PCs and Macs). Conference centers and meeting rooms equipped with audiovisual equipment that can be reserved for your events. A super cool 3D printing lab and laser cutting system. You can also check out Computers, tablets for use within the facility. Check out the Do Space website at www.DoSpace.org to get the most up to date list of training. Classes start accepting registration 30 days out. Use of the facility and technology are free, but you have to sign up for a membership card. The process is quick. Just show a photo ID, they put you in the system and start checking things out. The information desk and volunteers are extremely helpful and eager to assist in any way they canI have already seen several classes that I am interested in to include learning how to do 3D printingOh and did I mention that everything is free? The only charge will be for materials if you are printing and/or doing 3D in order to pay for the filament."

The Union for Contemporary Art

★★★★★ 5 (4) • $$$

"I freaking love the UNION! My first time at the UNION was last year. I wanted to find a place where I could know more about the Omaha community and also work on my art.The people here are so amazing and welcoming. They are willing to help and teach you new art skills. They have a great program called the CO-OP where you can sign up for a year or monthly membership and participate in workshops offered by in house artists and use the facilities. They have an area for ceramics, photo lab, screen printing lab, an area for wood cutting, and also a beautiful garden that is in bloom. Something I love about the UNION is that they focus on community outreach and work with kids and youth in North Omaha in providing them art workshops on the weekends. I love seeing the different projects they create during art club.I am so happy I found a place like this in town!"

Film Streams' Ruth Sokolof Theater

★★★★★ 4.7 (59)

"I have to show some love to Film Streams here in Omaha. But first, a warning. I'm on the website multiple times a week and I have a membership, so I'm already part of the indoctrinated. And if I thought I loved Film Streams before, imagine how much more I loved it after my company paid for my membership and I could go see all the movies there for only $4. Add in the 20% discount on concessions and it's almost a weekly visit for me.Film Streams (which I'm always catching myself writing as filmstreams) is "a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the cultural environment of the Omaha-Council Bluffs area through the presentation and discussion of film as an art form". So technically the theater that I'm reviewing is Film Streams at the Ruth Sokolof Theater. Two screens, friendly staff/volunteers, and a generally great vibe.I have yet had the urge for a coffee while I'm there, because the Sweet Leaf Green tea is so much more tempting... but if you do, they serve freshly brewed Blue Line coffee from right down the street."

Gallery 1516

★★★★★ 4.6 (5)

"When my friend told me she was having her book event here, I immediately looked up the pictures and was blown away. The pictures doesn't do the space justice (I forgot to take more pictures).The space was open and the wood beams added warmth to the space. It didn't feel cold and cavernous."

The Humble Lily

★★★★★ 4.5 (15)

"I'm in LOVE with this shop - it really elevates shopping second hand, plus it benefits an amazing cause - The Bethlehem House. I make my way to thrift stores a number of times a year and it can become burdensome to sort through overloaded racks while also trying to avoid items with stains or holes. The Humble Lily takes higher-end items and meticulously organizes, steams and ensures they are in still great quality. What's even better is here you will find some amazing designer items - Tory Burch, Burberry, custom furs and so on. A lot of items still have tags - I've found $400 skirts knocked down to $40. Its amazing."

Felius Cat Café & Rescue

★★★★☆ 4.3 (38)

"Would recommend going here, perfect spot for a chill date or to relax. We booked 1 hour and used it all up. They have good coffee as well. Staff and volunteers were friendly and it was a welcoming atmosphere"

Fontenelle Forest

★★★★★ 4.7 (45)

"I have to stop for an update after getting to enjoy the tree rush adventure! WOW!!!! This was out of this world! The team alone made us feel so comfortable and Geoff the instructor was great. I loved the blue courses a lot and would love to come back to try Nighthawk. The bird refugee is amazing and the info they give about the birds is great. It is heartwarming to know they have a safe haven."

Boys Town

""Every race, color, and creed welcome." Words we need to hear today lived out by Father Flanagan in his life's work. This original campus is fully operational and has a museum, Hall of Heroes. It has personal stories from some of the occupants of Boys Town. Even the sculptures are made from castes from volunteers of the home. There are memorabilia as you walk through a timeline of the development of the organization, and information of the current expanding work. Also, it was nice to see some of the artwork made from former residents and commissions. It has been a while since I felt inspired, and I am pleased with its continued legacy. The land was the original farm he purchased to grow the organization.The property has residents and educational buildings. Near the museum are two chapels and Father Flanagan's former home. There is also a small garden. Don't forget the gift shop and cafe and postage sculpture. Note the offices are not open to visitors on the other side of the campus by the lake."

Plainsman Museum

★★★★☆ 4.4 (9)

"The Plainsman museum is huge it covers two very large barns that have been converted into beautiful displays of the local area of Nebraska and of the journey across the plains. All displays are tasteful and done in a spacious form they are depicting life as it was in another era. The Staff is quite helpful, and noticeably proud of the museum The murals in the entry way are very colorful and under lighted for sure. I really like that the mini dioramas of the past are not overcrowded. Some times in the local museums, attempts are made to display everything, and it can be way to crowded. Here it is done right.There are areas under construction and it will be fun to check in again in a few years to watch the progress.In the back building / barn is all the farm equipment, Lots of tractors of all sizes and the devices you connect to the back of the tractor. is is almost overwhelming to take in.There is a school house on the property that is set up from an earlier time.There is also a farm house that is from an era a few generations ago, that for me was like a home of my grandmother when I was a small child. My oh My soon I may be in a museum too."

Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center

"I'm usually pretty indifferent towards Goodwills, but this one, for some odd reason, is probably my favorite Goodwill in the Omaha area. Why? I'm not sure, as you'll find your typical selection of clothes and junk here, maybe you can expect a few more name brands and "mall" clothes to appear on the racks than at other locations. But there's something else about this location that just gives me a sense of comfort -- it just "feels" good to me.Maybe I like it because the only time a stop here is when I'm out and about running errands or going to meetings in northwest Omaha. And a stop in here means a quiet treasure hunting excursion from the ennui that being a working adult so often brings.For whatever reason, I've had the best luck here finding t-shirts over button ups or pants or anything else.Plus Yon put up a pic on this listing of a Bart Simpson butt clock that (I think) is calling me out. She put up that pic nearly a year ago and I just came across it. Made my day!"

Fairytale Omaha

★★★★★ 5 (3)

"We got to experience the princesses from Fairytale Omaha at Chirpy's Play Cafe for a ticketed event and it was the most incredible experience for my daughter. There is no price you can put on watching the wonderment in a child eyes as they see their favorite princesses appear in real life. It was the coolest feeling. The princesses couldn't have been more kind, sweet, and patient with 30 girls all clamoring to be with them. They never broke character and took all the pictures they were asked for. They sand a beautiful number, and organized the tea party experience. It was the best morning and I would definitely hire them again for a personal event."

Malcolm X Memorial Foundation

"Before you judge it, put your money up! Love to those who have and continue to sacrifice to support and keep alive the memory of Malcolm Little aka Malcolm X aka Malik El Hajj Shabazz."

Pieloch Pet Adoption Center

★★★☆☆ 3 (5)

"Clean, beautiful looking facility that is run by the capital humane society. The animals are well behaved and the cages are kept super clean. My visit there was odor free too. Didn't find anything on this time around but the staff was really friendly. I noticed a lot of cats of all ages and also a lot of dogs in the hound/pitbull type breed in need of loving homes."

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (11) • $

"This was my first time here. My wife ordered some things online for pickup. The first day we got here to retrieve our items, the store was closed for impending weather, and there was no note on the door. Some employees showed up and didn't know this location was closed either. Once we rescheduled our delivery and the store was open, I was heated by happy and cheering staff who was happy to help. Overall a really great experience"

Goodwill - Omaha

★★★★☆ 3.6 (13) • $$

"Bookguy needed a sport coat to wear to a wedding and didn't want to spend big bucks for this one event. Enter Goodwill Store. The store is very clean and well organized so it doesn't take a lot of searching through racks and racks of clothes. We could practically see the right area from the door. There was a surprising amount of sport coats organized by size. Some had traditional sizing like 40 but some were marked large, extra large etc. We were able to quickly find a suitable coat in excellent condition for only a few dollars. This was a much better deal than spending a couple hundred dollars at a men's clothing store. He also found a new pair of athletic shoes. Bookguy hates shopping for clothes so if there is a lesson to be learned for us from this experience it is this: think about clothing priorities and uses. Start at thrift stores to see if those requirements can be met. It's better for the environment too!"

The Salvation Army Omaha Kroc Center

★★★★☆ 4.1 (10)

"The Kroc Center is a great option if you're looking for something to do on these cold winter days. They have both a lap pool, kiddie pool with water fountains, and a water slide for both little kids as well as older kids. It even has a small lazy river. In addition to the pool, you will find a treehouse area in which the kids can climb and slide back down to the bottom. I haven't utilized the gym or other areas but they look like they're in good shape. It's not cheap for a day pass but there's a lot to keep you busy."

Center For People In Need

"The Center for people in need does not give equally and caters to bigger families. They are very unsanitary. I have witnessed cockroaches and ants inside their building. They are unfriendly and very short with everyone. They accused me of trying to steal food when they check your stuff out! They made me empty my purse! Invasion of my privacy! Gross bathrooms and if you tell someone they do nothing and then give you dirty looks. Obviously people that go there have no money but they constantly advertise on their microphone that they have services available for 10 dollars. If I had 10 dollars it wouldn't be used for a service they are advertising for, it would be to buy me some groceries so I wouldn't have to be at a nasty place like the center for people in need!!!!"

The Church Art House

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Unique venue which provides space for multiple art and community events such as music performances, singing bowl sessions, art classes, and life drawing sessions.This is a decommissioned church, so even though the beautiful stained-glass windows are still in place, it is no longer used for church services.I enjoy coming here, for a variety of activities, frequently."

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

★★★★☆ 3.6 (12) • $

"Okay...all you handy men and women out there, if you have not been to the Habitat ReStore; go there before buying anything else at the big box stores like Lowes, Home Depot and Menards. There is a little bit of everything in the store and when I was pricing tile, it beats the big box store prices hands down......there is limited selection, but you might hit the jackpot.Also a good selection of lighting fixtures, toilets and sinks, paint and various other bric- a brac.The employees are very helpful and are very willing to give advice on your home improvement projects.All proceeds go to fund the local Habitat for Humanity, so when you shop there, not only are you getting a good deal, but you are also contributing to the betterment of the community.Good shopping."

Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center

★★★★★ 4.5 (10)

"My son and I killed some time here before we checked into the hotel. The museum is free which is nice. What was a disturbing is the video which Clark is narrating in costume refers to Indiginous People as "injuns". The buttons you push to hear the person speak were lifelike. Lewis and Clark also had people beat and whip a person who was asked the leave the expedition. The museum was pretty small. It's alright to kill about 30 minutes time."

Omaha Toastmasters Club 281

"I have been a member of this public speaking club for more than 2 years now. When I joined, I was clearly nervous to share my ideas in front of people. However, after support and mentorship from fellow Club 281 Toastmasters, I have greatly improved my confidence in speaking to a group of individuals.Toastmasters is a great way to become a better speaker, listener, and leader. I'm very grateful for this ongoing experience."

Community Bicycle Project

★★★★★ 4.8 (5) • $$

"I needed to tighten the headset on my bike so I stopped in today. The shop was a little crowded so I did the work on the sidewalk. I mentioned I needed a new seat and was told I could rummage through a couple of boxes full. I found a wonderful seat and donated $10.While I was there a neighborhood kid came in with his broken bike. The staff helped him out and off he rode. If your bike needs repairs or upgrades and you don't mind getting your hands a little dirty, give them a try."

Food Hub No Empty Pots

"Wonderful addition to Florence! What a treat! Coffee is delicious and so was the Gluten Free Almond Muffin! Other Gluten free Breakfast and Lunch choices as well. I actually ordered a second iced salted dulce de leche latte with almond milk to go because the first one was soooo amazing! My fiancé got the iced coffee sweetened with sugar free vanilla syrup and it did not have a funky aftertaste at all, like so many sugar free items do. They will make any drink a breve by blending with creme. I'm excited to try the sugar cane horchata. We are planning on going back tomorrow, again. It is so refreshing to see Florence being revitalized, especially with youth engaging/promoting businesses! Definitely worth your drive out on North 30th Street!"

Great Plains Art Museum

★★★★☆ 4 (2)

"Located in downtown, I was surprised to see that there were no reviews. So I figured I would pop in and see why. And to tell you, I don't know why. This is a small but interesting art collection and is well worth at least an hour of art appreciation.Some excellent American artists on display here including Frederic Remington (I've seen his sculptures in many places, including Bismarck and Salt Lake City), John Falter, Albert Bierstadt and Edwin Deming. The display of stereoscopes was super cool and having a device there to actually look through was awesome.Neat museum. Completely free. Very interesting. Stop in.[Review 11395 overall, 1172 of 2019.]"

Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center

"The Goodwill drop off station. Not sure if this is the best way to give stuff away, but it is convenient. Nice building, open long hours, helpful people."

Scatter Joy Acres

★★★★☆ 3.8 (19)

"Scatter Joy Acres is an incredible organization to support. I have personally gotten the opportunity to volunteer here on quite a few occasions since they moved to this location (formerly Soby Ranch).Joy is a hardworking, dedicated woman who truly cares for her animals and for what they can do for the people she serves with them. They have a very unique set up and the interaction w the animals is fat beyond what you can expect from a larger institution like the local zoo."

The Apollon

★★★★☆ 3.9 (15)

"So I haven't put up my review I wanted to do from my first yelp elite event here about a year ago, which was actually 4 stars, but tonight pushed them up to 5 stars! They have really come a long way in a year's time and their current show about the Titanic (April 2015) was so amazingly done! The characters that you're asked to be are real passengers on the Titanic and they served the exact dessert that was served to first class passengers the day the ship sank (which was actually the anniversary date of the night we went). It was so good we are thinking of going back to sit in the "steerage" section instead of first class to check it out from another perspective! Both times we have been there the food is excellent and the price is pretty good for a 3 course dinner and a show! Oh and we got our own stereo card picture for $5 as a souvenir at the end of the show too!"