Our Programs
Three Pillars, One Mission
Our programs are designed around the real needs of young people in Omaha — safe spaces, sustainable careers, and leadership that shapes the future.
Youth Wellness
Over the years, we've seen young people in our community struggle to find safe spaces. This program tackles youth homelessness by creating transitional housing for our participants — supporting their mental wellness, peer connection, recreation, and access to essential services and opportunities.
At Forward Youth Foundation, wellness means more than the absence of crisis. We create environments where young people can rest, heal, and rebuild — on their own terms. Our drop-in studio at the Historic 24th & Lake Corridor serves as a second home for youth who need somewhere safe to go after school, after work, or after a difficult day.
Transitional Housing
Stable, temporary housing for young people experiencing homelessness — providing a foundation of safety while they work toward permanent independence.
Mental Health Support
Trauma-informed peer support, mental wellness check-ins, and connections to professional counseling services for youth navigating difficult circumstances.
Peer Connection
Community circles, group activities, and shared experiences that help young people build genuine relationships and a sense of belonging.
Recreation & Creative Space
Access to sports, arts supplies, creative studio space, and recreational activities that give youth healthy outlets for expression and stress relief.
Additional services include: daily nutritious meals, homework help and tutoring, free Omaha transit passes, conflict resolution support, and multilingual assistance in English, Nuer, Dinka, and Spanish. Everything is free of charge — no referrals needed.
Career Pathways
As technology and AI reshape the job market, one thing remains certain: skilled trades are the backbone of our economy, and they're not going anywhere. At Forward Youth Foundation, we saw this early and set out to lead the fight against youth unemployment by helping young people discover trades schools and apprenticeship programs — opening doors to stable, hands-on careers that AI can't replace.
Our Pathway to Employment program prepares young people for the workforce through in-demand trades like carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, and more. With Omaha's growing demand for skilled tradespeople, we connect youth with apprenticeships, trades schools, and certification pathways — building careers that are future-proof, well-paying, and deeply rewarding.
Complementing this is our Ready to Work program, designed to equip newcomer youth in Omaha with the tools, confidence, and connections they need to succeed. In partnership with local organizations across Omaha, Nebraska, we deliver hands-on employment support through a team of experienced volunteers specializing in youth engagement and community outreach. Together, we focus on career readiness, essential life skills, and building a foundation for lasting economic independence.
At FYF, we believe the future of work is built by hand — and we're here to help every young person find their place in Omaha's skilled trades workforce.
Youth Leadership
At Forward Youth Foundation, we believe young people aren't just the leaders of tomorrow — they're leaders today. Our Youth Leadership pillar develops the skills, confidence, and platforms that youth need to shape the civic and social future of Omaha and beyond.
Through mentorship, hands-on community projects, and direct engagement with local government, we help young people find their voice — and use it. Whether it's presenting testimony before Omaha City Council or organizing a neighborhood cleanup, our youth leaders are actively transforming the communities they call home.
Civic Engagement & Advocacy
Youth present policy research and testimony before Omaha City Council and the Nebraska Legislature. We amplify young voices on issues that directly affect their lives — from housing to education to public safety.
Leadership Training
Structured programs in public speaking, project management, and community organizing that equip youth with practical leadership skills they can apply in school, work, and civic life.
Mentorship & Volunteering
Youth are paired with experienced community mentors who walk alongside them. Participants also give back through structured volunteer opportunities that build leadership through service.
Youth-Led Projects
Young people design and execute their own community initiatives — from neighborhood beautification to civic research to youth town halls — with full support and funding from FYF.
Civic partner alliances with Omaha Public Schools, local government, and community organizations ensure our youth leaders have real platforms to be heard. We also host community town halls, youth policy whitepapers, and legislative alert networks to keep young people connected to the decisions that shape their future.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or get your organization involved — we'd love to hear from you.