Get Involved

There are lots opportunities to support resettled refugees!  Especially in Omaha, a city that receives hundreds of new arrivals each year.

Please click the Volunteer Guide link for the best ways to get started.

Local Opportunities

Omaha Refugee Day

World Refugee Day (WRD) is the largest refugee event in Omaha each year.  Globally WRD is celebrated June 20th.  Locally, Omaha celebrates on the closest Saturday to June 20th.  This event is a chance to learn about refugees in Omaha and hear their amazing stories at Joslyn Art Museum (sponsored by the Omaha Refugee Task Force).

Restoring Dignity Omaha

Volunteer your time and/or resources to help Omaha refugee families facing particular hardships find comfort and solace in their new homes.  Wonderful one-day volunteer opportunity – but you’ll want to come back again!

Welcome Corps

Welcome Corps Logo

The Welcome Corps is a U.S. Department of State program that provides a service opportunity for Americans to welcome refugees. Together, sponsor groups assist newcomers by securing and preparing initial housing, greeting refugee newcomers at the airport, enrolling children in school, and helping adults to find employment. Learn more about establishing a sponsor group or get your questions answered on their website.

New American Arts Festival

This festival includes workshops, performances, art displays, fashion, artist vendors, food vendors, music, interaction, and more.  Mentors from the local art scene are always appreciated.

Refugee Empowerment Center

Resettling and empowering refugees to become self-sufficient through direct services and educational programs.

Lutheran Family Services

Service provider for refugees in Nebraska that builds and strengthens family, individual, and community life.

Benson Area Refugee Task Force

A collaboration of individuals, organizations, and houses of faith in the Benson neighborhood founded to make a difference in the lives of refugee neighbors.

New Americans Task Force

A network of public and private organizations and community members dedicated to supporting New Americans in the Lincoln, Nebraska community.

Household Donation Suggestions

Donations are often appreciated to help refugees set up their new homes. Please coordinate with a respective agency on what the current needs are, drop-off locations or to organize a drive.

Dining Table & Chairs*
Beds & Bedding* (twin, full, queen)
Pillows & Pillow Cases*
Lamps & Light Bulbs*
Couch*
Dressers*
Chairs/Recliners
Coffee & Side Tables
Rugs
Shower Curtains & Hooks*
Shelf for Shoe Storage (near door)

Pots & Pans*
Dishes*
Glasses & Coffee Mugs*
Cooking Utensils*
Silverware*
Can Opener*
Sharp Knives*
Mixing Bowls*
Tupperware & Ziploc Bags*
Trash Can & Bags*
Cutting Board*
Dishcloths*
Paper Towels & Napkins*
Rice Cooker
Bakeware
Teapot/Kettle & Set & Serving Tray
Thermos
Colander/s
Sink Drain Strainer

Broom & Dust Pan*
Bucket & Mop*
Dish Soap*
All Purpose Cleaner*
Trash Cans & Bags*
Sponges & Cleaning Rags*
Laundry Detergent *
Scouring Pads & Powder
Toilet Brush & Cleaner
Vacuum
Rubber Gloves

Sizes Baby – Adult Large (no XL, XXL, etc)
Coats, Scarves, Gloves, Hats
NEW Socks & Underwear

Toothpaste & Toothbrush*
Soap*
Shampoo & Conditioner*
Deodorant*
Brush & Comb*
Razors & Shaving Cream*
Maxi Pads (not tampons)
Toilet Paper*
Towels & Wash Cloths*
Nail Clippers*
Lotion*
Diapers & Wipes (if needed)*

First Aid Kit
Aspirin
Tools
Sewing Kit
Alarm Clock/Clock Radio *
Clothes Hangers*
Electric Fans
Calendar
Bicycles
Toys
TV + Converter Box / DVD player
Crayons, Pens, Pencils, Paper
Picture Dictionary
Scissors & Tape
Plastic Baskets, Bins, Crates
Laundry Basket/Hampers
Backpacks
Purses & Wallets

Sleeper or Recliner Sofas
Waterbeds or King Size Beds
Broken or Incomplete items
Stained or Unwashed Clothing