Completely KIDS serves more than 2,600 KIDS in 16 locations primarily throughout southeast Omaha. This includes public and parochial schools, homeless shelters and the Ronald McDonald House. We also provide services for family members of our KIDS to strengthen their support system.
A high percentage of the children we serve are eligible for free or reduced lunch, an indicator of need. In 2019, the federal poverty level for a family of four was annual income of $25,750. Most of the families we serve fall below this.
Completely KIDS focuses on a holistic approach to meeting the needs of children and families. This is why we provide nutritious meals and mental health services. Our adult classes help parents learn skills to improve the economy and self-sufficiency of the family. With language barriers a reality with many of our parents, Completely KIDS staff serve as necessary conduits to communication with teachers and administration at the schools where our programs reside.
Who is the primary group that you serve with your organization?
In supporting our mission, we assist more than 2,600 KIDS and their families via school, homeless shelter and other partnerships to overcome barriers to their success. Our headquarters at 2566 St. Mary’s Avenue is at the heart of the community we serve. As such, we are better able to understand the challenges our families face, as well as provide them with easier access to our services.
What makes your organization different from others with
a similar focus?
Completely KIDS ensures that our families have access to the knowledge and skills necessary to break the cycle of poverty. We do so by serving KIDS, teens, adults and offering needed services like Weekend Food Program and Mental Health services—to serve the whole family. When the whole family has the tools for success, KIDS are successful.
What are some of your main fundraising events and when are they held?
Stronger Together Luncheon: March 5, 2025
FORE! the KIDS Golf Event: TBD 2025
Pinot, Pigs and Pours: September 2025
2025-2028, we are the beneficiary of the vinNEBRASKA event held in April as well.
Who are the main members/leaders of your organization?
Carla Rizzo, Chief Executive Officer
Are there any local businesses that have been especially
helpful in sponsoring or supporting your organization?
At Completely KIDS, volunteers play a vital role in making a difference, and we welcome all hands on deck. Many of the corporations that support us help in our Weekend Food Program on a regular basis—where we pack more than 990 bags each week, distributing them to KIDS in our programs.
How do you get the word out about your organization?
Through traditional marketing efforts such as direct mail, radio PSA’s, social media, email marketing and more. But we’re also all about word of mouth! Our best advocates are our volunteers, our Guild and Board members—and anyone who has had their life touched by Completely KIDS.
Where do you see your organization in 5 years? 10?
Completely KIDS is continuing to grow. Last month, we opened the Joyce Mammel Family Center down the street from our Headquarters building on St. Mary’s Avenue. This building houses our growing Weekend Food Program, our Adult Education program, and our curriculum. The future holds continued growth for us in the southeast Omaha community—and beyond.
If someone asked how they could help your organization,
what would you tell them?
Volunteer! Sign up for Tuesday and Wednesday morning slots to compile bags of food to sustain the KIDS over the weekend. We prepare more than 990 bags each week, distributing them to the KIDS on Thursdays. OR Be part of our Reading Buddies Program. We are looking for volunteers to interact with our KIDS and help them discover the love of reading. Reading Buddies in held from 4:30-5:30PM, Monday – Thursday, at Liberty, Jackson and Gifford Park elementary schools and Completely KIDS at 26th and St. Mary’s Avenue. Come read once a week, every bit makes a difference for the KIDS of our community.
To volunteer—contact Ismael Alvarez del Castillo at 402-397-5809 or [email protected].
Your contributions—whether through time, talent, or financial support—are vital to the important work we do every day. We are grateful for every donation, grant, and gift we receive, as well as the invaluable assistance from our volunteers.
To donate visit completelykids.org.
What are the biggest needs of your organization right now?
Heading into the holiday season, we are in need of gifts for our KIDS. Each year, we ensure that each and every one of the KIDS in our program receive a wrapped gift to unwrap over the holiday break—sometimes the only gift they are able to receive. Gifts must be between $20-$30 and turned into Completely KIDS wrapped, no later than December 2.
Make a difference today—your donation to Completely KIDS fuels hope and empowers futures for children and families in our community.
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