Assistance League of Omaha Nebraska Inc

Wonderful organization that helps so many in need, especially through Operation School Bell & The Thrift Shop.

I decided to join in this valuable organization because of their wonderful philanthropic programs.
The work done in this nonprofit funds many incredible programs that enhance the lives of so many.

From used to new! Who knew that selling gently used clothing donated by Assistance League members and friends would help so many Omaha youth purchase brand new clothing! ALO's Operation School Bell is one of many programs supporting and improving the lives of our youth. Thousands have been served, and for many children, purchasing brand new clothing was a first. As for me, connecting with children and their families only reinforces my sense of community, knowing that each of us, working together, can truly make a difference.

Since 1976 this organization of volunteer women has contributed greatly to the Omaha area. They do this by working with the local schools to provide new clothing for children of need. In 2023 they provided clothing for 3,800 children. They are the only organization in Omaha that provide Assault Survivor Kits (clothing and toiletries) to hospital Emergency Rooms and abuse shelters for victims of assault. Teddy bears for children experiencing trauma are provided year-round to hospitals, police stations, and abuse shelters. Books for adults and children are collected for distribution to homeless shelters. Funds for their programs are raised by their Thrift Shop, donations, an annual fundraiser, and grants. There are no paid employees in this organization.

I recently joined as a volunteer but have known many women who are members. I have been so impressed and moved by the genuine caring shown by the women I have met in this organization. They are down-to-earth and hard-working, and so selfless about the causes this ALO chapter supports. The Thrift Shop is top notch; I just love the the happy buzz and vibe I get when I go in to shop! The Christmas Caravan is such a marvelous event. All of the women I have met are women that I want to know and learn from. I will seek to experience more of the events and help with their many endeavors.

This group of women are so dedicated to serving their community. Operating a wonderful thrift store is no easy task. I learned about the League by shopping! Now, a fashion show is coming up as a fundraising event. One of their many outreach efforts includes teen parents at the largest school district in Nebraska.

Assistance League is an all-volunteer organization that has 6 philanthropic programs to help those in
need in Omaha and the surrounding cities. ALO has 350 members who love helping others and give of
their time and talent generously! I have made so many great friends in this organization by working on
several committees, serving on the board of directors, and chairing several committees.

The shop is merchandised very nicely. High quality items, organized very well. I always find a bargain, something beautiful I didn't even know I was looking for. Everyone I've met has been very gracious and their heart is in the right place.

As a new member of ALO in 2009 my first assignment was to assist youngsters needing warm clothing for our Nebraska winters. Our shop was located close to the Medical Center at that time. It was a cold October evening and two youngsters walked in our door with their mothers . THey were also accompanied by a member of the medical center staff. These two little girls were visitors from a Central American country and they were at the Medical Center for organ transplants, as explained to me by the accompanying staff member. They had so many medical tubes attached to them and each had a moon pie face which I assumed was due to medications. I had the delightful opportunity to assist them in finding a "pink" coat with fur around the collars. THen we searched for the perfect gloves and warm hats to compliment the parkas. Each girl found our floor mirror and the smile that appeared on their face will always remain in my memory as an all time high as a member of this association. Their expressions were similar to "Cinderella" or Ella from the Frozen movie. We progressed to other clothing to supplement their winter clothing needs as they would remain in NEbraska for one month in case of a remission or rejection of their new organs. THus we found pretty pink sweats to assist in that need. How fortunate I was to be the volunteer that cold evening and how essential our organization is to make Omaha and our community a giving community.

The most quietly giving program in Omaha. So many wonderful things happening with this non-profit. Operation School Bell providing new clothing to students. Operation Literacy providing new/gently used books to organizations throughout the Omaha area. Operation Recovery and Assault Survivor help women of Omaha in crisis. As a volunteer, I never knew there were so many segments of our community that Assistance League helps.

I have LOVED volunteering with ALO. Seeing the kids at Operation School Bell being so excited to get to pick out some new clothes was a life changing experience. We all feel better and more confident when we're comfortable in what we're wearing and to see that kind of a smile was incredible.

I am proud to be a member of this non-profit that strives to help those less fortunate in our local community by providing assault survivor kits, school clothing, and through many other impactful programs.

I joined Assistance League of Omaha in 2006 and this group of hard working, considerate, and giving women (sometimes with the help of their husbands, is always supporting each other, the children and adults of our community. They are truly an inspiration
I have served ALO as a committee member, on numerous President, Treasurer, and am currently working at the Assistance League of Omaha Thrift Shop at 8502 W. Center Road on Monday and Thursday mornings, going through clothing donations and trying to keep the back room organised with our "crew" of dedicated women. I try to spread the news of our wonderful "shop" whenever I meet new people!!!

What an outstanding organization Assistance League of Omaha is for so many people! As a volunteer and board member I am so amazed at what all the volunteers do to make sure the needs of many people are being met. Clothing over 4000 students this year has been so rewarding and I am blessed to be part of this organization! We do many ways to help the community, but we also find ways to have fun. The Thrift Shop has been our biggest ways to earn money for Operation School Bell, it continues to grow. We appreciate all of our donors and volunteers.

Assistance League of Omaha is such a blessing to the city of Omaha! Clothing children for school from marginalized populations, procuring books for people of all ages are just some of the philanthropies that are undertaken by this organization!

In October 2018, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I had joined the 2018-2019 ALO Board in June and was just beginning to meet my fellow Board members. Because of their support and the help of other ALO members, I was able to face my fears and complete my treatment and I am now a 5 year survivor. Assistance League of Omaha was with me every step of my journey and continues with me today.

I was looking for a way to give back to the community and make a positive impact in the lives of those in need and I came across the Assistance League of Omaha. The dedicated team of volunteers is committed to transforming the lives of children and adults through impactful community programs. Joining the organization has been a transformative experience for many, including myself. Witnessing the unwavering passion and dedication exhibited by the members in carrying out our noble mission is truly inspiring.

ALO has enriched my life in so many ways. My chief interest is in helping women and children live better lives. Our programs fulfill that need in the community and my own emotional need to help. And the friends made through this work are priceless.

Joining Assistance League of Omaha has been an immensely transformative experience that has truly enriched my life. The dedication and unwavering passion exhibited by each member in carrying out our noble mission of transforming the lives of children and adults through impactful community programs is truly inspiring. I wholeheartedly invite you to unite with me in lending our unwavering support to the invaluable work that ALO tirelessly undertakes across metropolitan Omaha. Together, let us create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in need within our community.

Assistance League of Omaha has served the Omaha Community since 1973. This year they will recognize and celebrate the 80,000th child dressed in warm school clothing through Operation School Bell. This amazing program serves over 210 kindergarten through eighth grade students in 10 Omaha school districts

Ten years ago I joined Assistance League of Omaha after retiring from a rewarding career. I was looking for a meaningful way of using my new found time and was so grateful to have been invited to join ALO by a friend. This wonderful organization of hard working volunteers has given me so many opportunities to serve my community. I’ve assisted children to feel better about themselves by helping them buy new, warm and properly fitting school clothes through Operation School Bell. Operation Recovery is another valuable program of encouragement for women going through treatment for substance dependence with life skill training. These are only two of six philanthropic programs.

Imagine how surprised and rewarding it was when visiting a local restaurant, with my ALO shirt on, the manager stopped to thank me for both of these ALO services. She had been a part of each program and wanted ALO to know how much they had helped her and her family get back into a healthy community life. Now that was an amazing and rewarding feeling.
Carolyn McCormick

Assistance League of Omaha is an amazing non-profit organization that helps the greater Omaha area with their philanthropic programs. Operation School Bell is one of those programs that help to clothe over 4,000 school children in need from Kindergarten to the 8th grade. The children are able to pick out their own coat, shoes and clothes that they need for school from JCPenney's. It is so rewarding to see the smiles on their faces as they receive a new book when they are done shopping. I have met so many amazing women who love volunteering at ALO to help their community.

Operation Teen Parent is one of the many worthy programs of the Assistance League® of Omaha. Teen parents are encouraged to graduate from high school and make plans for a post-secondary education. Operation Teen Parent gives four scholarships each year to the teen parents. These young women have persevered in spite of many obstacles and are so appreciative of being recognized at a graduation ceremony we hold for them in May.

Last year, I needed to find a dress suitable for "cocktail attire" at an early fall wedding. I almost never go to events requiring "cocktail attire," so I wasn't excited about spending a lot on a dress I might wear once. My friend suggested I look at the Thrift Shop. So, I made my first trip to the new store. I found a dress I thought fit the occasion perfectly. It cost $10 and still had the original tags on it. Since then, I shop there regularly, and have found several items that make my summer wardrobe more fun. Most importantly, the work Assistance League does is so meaningful for our community, especially for the kids they reach.

The Assistance League of Omaha runs a wonderful thrift store that feels like a boutique. It is immaculate with clothes pressed and hung by color and size for men and women, along with beautiful housewares. The staff is welcoming and the store is so clean and bright.

I am extremely grateful to assistance league for their operation school bell program. Over 12 years of teaching in low income areas, I have had many students get new clothes and coats. My students are always so excited to show off their new clothes. It was a relief to see my students with new winter coats
too.

Despite the pandemic, Assistance League of Omaha continued to "transform lives and strengthen our community". As a member of the Board, I have been impressed with our membership's ability to embrace change. Meetings were held via Zoom, our Caravan Tour of Homes was replaced with a fund drive that far surpassed our expectations. Children from the Greater Omaha area continued to receive new clothing via our Operation School Bell philanthropic program. Our all volunteer organization continued to serve the community via our programs as much as possible despite Covid-19. We opened a beautiful new Thrift Shop in November, 2020. I am proud to be a part of this great organization and look forward to all the great opportunities we will embrace in 2021-2022.

Assistance League of Omaha has served the Omaha community for over 45 years. Despite the COVID19 pandemic with all the required restrictions, ALO members creatively continued to serve children and adults through six philanthropic programs. Some examples: Approximately 2500 children were clothed through Operation School Bell with parent feedback expressing gratitude for the support during a harsh winter and financial challenges. Assault Survivor Kits were provided to hospital emergency rooms and other agencies, including Project Harmony, to assist female and male assault patients during their time of need. The support of donors and grant foundations was timely and critical to maintaining programs and greatly appreciated.

I have had the opportunity to be connected with ALO since the 1990's. I was president of the group in 2005. Throughout the years I have been able to watch the group grow in membership and the number of people they have helped through all of their projects. ALO has shown strong support for the Omaha community. I wish them continued success in their endeavors.

ALO is a group of individuals that is well organized to carryout their various missions. They have various committees to carryout their projects and each does so with efficiency and dedication. They raise the funds via their thrift shop, personal and company contacts to get the job done. Their focus on children makes teachers, families and members proud. They keep expenses low and pay attention to detail.

This group does not value diversity. Membership is 99 percent White and has no desire to evolve. Programs are quite dated. It is more of a social club for older women than a philanthropy.

In 2014, the organizers of the ALO Operation School Bell Program realized they had many parents who came to their events that did not speak English and were relying on their children to navigate the OSB rules and routines.
They approached me as a person who works with multilingual students to help organize and support student interpreters. Over the last seven years, Omaha South High School has provided hundreds of hours of interpreters for this program and the parents. My students love the opportunity to give back to their community. Many remember their own experiences with OSB and are happy to be on the giving end of the program. My students' self-worth as multilingual members of society increases as they learn how much they have to offer.
Parents are appreciative of the additional support and clarity with which they receive the information. The children receiving the clothing are not pressured to work through complex processes on behalf of their parents just because they speak each of the languages neither their parents nor the ALO ladies speak.
This innovative idea took vision to realize, teamwork to put together and organization to maintain. Everyone involved has shared positive experiences with this collaboration and Omaha South High is excited to continue working with the Assistance League of Omaha provided student interpreters and shopping assistants for a long time to come.

The Assistance League of Omaha via Operation School Bell helped 20 students at Kellom Elementary buy clothes from JCPenney. The students were able to purchase coats, shoes, underclothing and a variety of other items that they needed. Without this nonprofit these students would not be as well prepared for the cold winter months. It also helps the students self esteem when they can purchase something new that looks nice. Thank you for all that you do.

On top of the increased need in our community, the Assistance League helped seven families who lost everything in an apartment fire. The emergency assistance for these families was such a blessing. The children got to pick out their new clothing! Thank you for always being there for children in our community!

The Assistance League of Omaha was helpful in providing clothing and other necessities to the elementary school that I work at. We had an amazing experience!

This school year has been extremely unique. I was so glad to hear that the ALO was still available to provide our families help with clothing through Operation School Bell. I know that many families appreciated this assistance during these trying times.

I recently had a family experience a home fire. The ALO was quick to respond to me when I wanted to connect them to a family that needed clothing for their children. They made the process seamless and easy.

I am so glad the ALO is available during a global pandemic. It has been EXTREMELY appreciated.

For many years the Assistance League of Omaha has partnered with the Omaha Public Schools by providing free clothing and shoes to our students. The commitment of time, love, support and generosity of this nonprofit is so appreciated. Even with our school going remote and students learning from home, the ALO is still in contact with me so they can continue to support our families. One of my favorite days is watching my students wear and talk about their new clothes after their assigned shopping day. I want to give a huge shout out to ALO and thank them for including us!

As a school counselor, I see first hand the positive impact of the work of the Assistance League of Omaha! When our students participate in Operation School Bell, they are provided new clothing free of charge. This builds confidence and supports families as they can direct their income to other needs. We appreciate ALO!!

The Assistance League of Omaha has supported school children in our community for many years and I hope they will be able to continue with their Operation School Bell project for many more. Their efforts make a difference in so many people's lives - our students who are able to participate - and their caregivers. Thank you!

Assistance League® of Omaha’s seven philanthropic programs serve a variety of needs in our community. We are an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that seeks to identify, plan, provide, review and revise services to children and adults. A helpful addition in the last few years to our signature program, Operation School Bell®, has been the involvement of high school students and adults to serve as volunteer translators to families for whom English is not their native language. It has been my pleasure to serve as one of the team leaders in this effort by contacting school liaisons and community organizations to help families during their shopping experience for new school clothes. Working with the teen volunteers has been particularly enjoyable as they happily embrace the opportunity to help others. Some have been recipients of Operation School Bell new clothes and know how critical the need is for families. Many of the teens express an interest in volunteering again the following year and we hope that the value and spirit of service becomes part of their futures.

The Assistance League of Omaha delivers an essential program, called Operation School Bell, for children throughout the Omaha area. As an Elementary School Counselor, I see first-hand the necessity of the program and the numerous benefits the program provides.

Being a kid is hard enough. Being a kid that looks different is even harder. Operation School Bell affords children the opportunity to have new clothing, just for them, that fits. Some of these children have never been able to go shopping for new clothing and this is a luxury for them. In addition to providing money for new clothes, the Assistance League of Omaha Volunteers treat each person with dignity while they personally assist the families. Parents have expressed to me how grateful they are and how wonderful the shopping experience was for their family. Interpreters are available as families select clothing for their children. This is not a one-size-fits-all program as individual needs of each child are provided. Kiddos at my school, come running up to me the day after their shopping experience, with huge smiles on their faces, to show me their new outfits. On following days, I discreetly share how nice they look and often times remark “What another new outfit?” The child beams with confidence. When you feel confident, you are ready to take on more challenging assignments and thus are more successful at school.

The Assistance League of Omaha is a wonderful organization to work with. I receive a contact person that I can call with any last-minute scheduling issue and they are quick to provide an easy solution for my school families. As a school counselor, I work with several community organizations. The Operation School Bell Team is the easiest and most professional to work with. They are an extremely organized “well-oiled machine”. They understand that I have many duties and intentionally create a stress-free system for school personnel and the families we serve. Their dedicated fundraising to ensure new clothing for school children is a generous, selfless act and testament to this caring group of women.

As a school counselor I work directly with the youth who benefit from this amazing organization. My students appreciate the opportunity to purchase new clothing would previously not been able to afford. We have been working with this organization for years and every year I see that quiet sense of confidence having new clothes provides.

Operation School Bell has been a wonderful resource for our students in the Papillion LaVista Community Schools. Students come to school proud of their new clothes and parents and guardians feel good about shopping with their child. I want to especially mention that not only are the clothes a wonderful resource but the resources and kindness expressed by all the volunteers is so appreciated. This is a wonderful program out school district staff and families appreciate. Thank you to all the volunteers at Operation School Bell, you are champions to our students!

As an Elementary School Counselor in the Metro area, I have worked with the Assistance League through their Operation School Bell Program. This program provides a back-to-school shopping trip for students. Helping students and families in this way provides a simple foundation of feeling good about themselves. Over my 18+ years in education, I have seen many students and families as they participate in this well-organized shopping event at JCPenney. These ladies dedicated their time to raise funds that have an immediate and direct impact on some of the neediest families in the Metro area. We educators are thankful that this opportunity is available for our families. Thank you, Assistance League of Omaha!

Assistance League of Omaha has been a great partner in our community. As a middle school counselor, I get to work closely with them through their Operation School Bell Program each fall. This is an amazing event that allows children that may not have the economic means to go and shop for clothes, shoes, and other essential clothing items they need. This opportunity for students is very much appreciated by the families that participate in this event. I have appreciated the ability to to partner with this wonderful organization that supports the families of our community.

The Assistance League of Omaha provides a greatly needed opportunity for students through Operation School Bell. This opportunity allows students to get new clothes that they would otherwise never be able to afford. I work in the schools and see first hand how this opportunity boosts the esteem of the students who benefit from the program. The students who often either wear old clothes that do not fit or go without basic necessities (coats, under garments)are able to buy new clothes, something that many of them have never been able to do before. Something as simple as new undergarments, a new coat, or a shirt that has never been owned by someone else means so much to these students. I have seen where this has actually increased the students attendance and participation at school. Thank you Assistance League of Omaha for Operation School Bell!

I have been a member of Assistance League of Omaha for six years. During that time I have been involved with many aspects of our program. I have seen our 347 volunteers tirelessly working in our seven philanthropic programs providing the very best to those in need. Our largest program, Operation School Bell, continues to provide new clothing, shoes and books to encourage self confidence and promote literacy for children. Their comments and their smiles are why we continue transforming lives and strengthening community.

Operation School Bell has provided an amazing service to our community for many years. Countless school aged students have been allowed the opportunity to have brand new clothes that they would otherwise likely been unable to have in their life. This process also affords parents/guardians the privilege of shopping with their child(ren) to obtain clothing that they need, and for whatever reason, parents/guardians are not in a position to provide this to them. Such an affirming process for everyone.

The process was very helpful for a school family. All three children benefited. Our first year at SJA and can't wait for next year.

I am very blessed to work with this organization year after year. The work they do to help brighten a child's day by providing for them a wonderful and fun shopping experience is extraordinary! I love seeing the smiles in the children when I ask them about how the day went.

This program meets the basic needs of children in our community by providing access to bran new clothing at no cost to parents. Parents and their students can shop for items together, providing time to bond, socialize, and again meet those basic needs with dignity. Omaha is blessed to have such a resource in our community and the people who run it are devoted, engaged, and caring. Couldn't ask for more from a nonprofit agency.

As school personnel, I have worked with Operation School Bell for the last two years. They go out of their way to help all families, meaning families that cannot access transportation, or need help with interpretation. They do their absolute best to make things accessible and easy to follow. The best part truly is seeing kids come in with their new clothes and feel so proud. I had a family of three come in with their new clothes and coats for school pictures. It could not have been more timely, and they could not have been more thrilled to show off their items to me. Such great, warm smiles to meet in the hallways every day for something Operation School Bell is able to provide for many of our families in need.

Although I have been a member of this organization for over 20 years, I think my story is worth sharing. I was a school principal who recommended a young lady to Operation School Bell. Her mother was unable to accompany her to her appointment so I stepped in. This young lady was a sixth grader who was wearing plus size clothing. I worried that there would be nothing for her to wear, but when we arrived she had a choice of three lovely coats in her size range. This was in the days when Operation School Bell operated their own facility, but it sold me on the work of this organization. Following my retirement, I joined this group to further their good work.

Assistance League of Omaha is such an amazing community partner for our students and schools. Operation School Bell provides an invaluable resource for kids whose families are struggling financially to start the school year in a positive way. Often, students light up, and parents break down, when they arrive at the event and learn they can pick out the clothes for free. Parents always express that the event lifts a great burden from their hearts.

And it doesn’t just help the families. When a student is living in poverty, teachers and administrators reach into their own pockets to pay for basic coats, hats, and gloves. Assistance League lifts that burden from our teachers and administrators, too. As a school board member, I am incredibly grateful for the smart, caring, driven women of Assistance League of Omaha. Thank you!

I am a third grade at Western Hills Elementary. I love Assistance League of Omaha and their Operation School Bell program. It is an amazing program that helps boost student confidence and attendance. Operation School Bell also improves student safety by providing warm coats during our cold winter months. Another important aspect of this program is that it teaches students math skills related to money management. I love seeing the smiles on their faces when they come to school wearing their new clothes. I can't say enough about the wonderful Operation School Bell program and the opportunities it provides for our students.

I work for a local non-profit our mission is to provide treatment to women recovering from their addiction. The Assistance League does so much for our women and their children! Starting with providing our ladies with a voucher to shop at Yesterday’s Best. They continue to help our ladies and their children by donating household items and hygiene products, they prepare graduation baskets full of goodies and other necessities, they donate children’s books, and what our ladies enjoy the most is how the Assistance League donates their time by coming into our home to do fun activities with them. I cannot express the amount of gratitude we have for the Assistance League ladies and how much they care for our women. Thank you so much, you ladies do wonderful things and bring happiness to those you serve!

I work for a local non-profit that works with the Assistance League of Omaha. They donate household items, childrens books, graduation gifts for our women, and lots of time spent doing fun activities with our women. They also provide shopping vouchers for our women to visit their thrift store. Thank you!

I work for a local non-profit that work with chemically dependent women and women with children. The assistance league has been a fundamental presence and has helped to positively impact the women’s lives we serve. From providing donations in form of children’s books, graduation gifts, fun events with the women, volunteering at our fundraisers and more! Thank you to all the ladies with the assistance league!!

We at JCPenney Westroads, Omaha NE, have partnered with the Assistance League for the Operation School Bell event for the past 8 years. The Assistance League has been an excellent organization to partner with and have provided clothing needs for 3,500+ children each season. They continue to coordinate the entire event with the schools/participants, work closely with us on merchandise needs/timing and schedule their members to help volunteer over the 10 day event. We appreciate everything they do for us at JCPenney and the community of Omaha.

Assistance League of Omaha Nebraska Inc., thank you to Operation School Bell’s Support and Columbian Elementary School. The way children feel about going to school and how they benefit from regular school attendance can be affected by their clothing. Some children might not have the extra money available for new clothing or wear worn out hand me downs. As the school counselor I have been able to go shopping with our students and was fortunate enough to experience first hand the joy and spark this experience brings to the students and their families. The ALO volunteers are so helpful outfitting the children, handing out free books and delivering a free voucher for shoes! It is priceless to be at the front door of school to greet the students come in with smiles that melt your heart showing gratitude and walk proudly down the hallways!

I went through Santa Monica in 2016. The assistance league came monthly. The ladies helped so much with ideas for new coping skills. My favorite was the writing activity that they did. I still use it to this day! They were very interested in hearing our stories and always had a loving ear. They let us do projects for our children which for me helped me feel like I was being proactive in there lives even when I wasn't physically there. I am amazed at the selflessness and care they brought every time. Three years later they still hold a place in my hear! Jessie Lager

The children at Ponca Elementary were able to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity the Assistance League of Omaha Nebraska provides. Our children were allowed to pick out items of their choice to cover and warm their bodies for the winter. The chosen children shopped and picked out items from coats, gloves, shirts, jackets, and pants. The were much more confident and ready to learn when they returned to school the following days. Thank You Assistance League of Omaha Nebraska for helping our community and Ponca Elementary School.

The school I work in has many new immigrants to the US. Many times our families are not prepared for the winters of the Nebraska and do not have the appropriate clothing such as sweaters, boots or winter coats. The Assistance League has a program that allows families in need to get the clothing they need, which in turn, raises the confidence level of our students and helps them do better in academics, behavior and attendance. The Assistance League of Omaha is the absolute best!

For several years, I have been impressed with the work done by the Assistance League of Omaha. As an Elementary School Principal, I witnessed the generosity of the League when they clothed two of the students in my school who had come to Omaha in the winter with no warm clothing.
In the past year, I have been more impressed with the work of Operation School Bell as the League had endeavored to clothe hundreds of Omaha children. Because of their willingness to step up and dress more children this year, I made a significant monetary contribution to their organization. I believe the Assistance League of Omaha is one of the most worthwhile nonprofit organizations in Omaha Nebraska.

Assistance League of Omaha's flagship program is Operation School Bell that provides clothing for children in need throughout the greater Omaha area. They also provide emergency clothing for school children through the year. Project Harmony will also contact ALO for immediate needs in clothing for the children they serve.
ALO responds to the needs of women at Santa Monica House, teddy bears for children facing crisis, and books for various agencies throughout our city.
Assault survivor kits are provided for victims of assault. These kits are provided through area hospitals and emergency rooms. There is a change of clothes and personal items to help preserve the dignity of the survivor.
The ACT/PSAT Review Seminars is especially helpful for students taking the ACT & PSAT that are first generation college bound students. This program is open to other students as well. It focuses on test taking skills. Operation Teen Parent supports OPS' program to encourage teen parents to stay in school and provides parenting information, several scholarships, and several incentives to help the teen parents.
I could use up all of my space with more that ALO does, but I think one can get the picture of the amount of service the ALO does every year. The Assistance League of Omaha's motto is, "Transforming Lives-Strengthening Community"!

Imagine being so poor that your family could not afford to buy you a white teddy bear or new clothes. This was the degree of poverty experienced by a girl whose personal essay I reviewed. Now imagine the joy that this girl experienced when she was able to receive new clothes at Operation School Bell sponsored by Assistance League Omaha.

This experience meant so much to her that, as a high school senior, she volunteered for Operation School Bell this school year. The city of Omaha is very fortunate to have such a wonderful organization as the Assistance League of Omaha which every October provides new clothes for approximately 3300 school children in need.

David Daughton

Omaha, NE

I am a retired school nurse of 28 years. I remember a 9 year old boy that was so excited to get new clothes that he came into my office first thing in the morning to show me his new outfit & told me about all the things he received. It was like Christmas for him.

I am a school counselor. Every year, the Assistance League of Omaha allows each school a limited number of "spots." which we can fill with needy children that could use clothing. These students are allowed to go to a mall in Omaha, where they are given vouchers and shopping time, all run by volunteers with the League. My students are always so excited to come to school the next day wearing clothing, coats or shoes that they were able to shop for themselves. When the kids feel better about themselves, they learn better, and make friends easier. I'm grateful for the role the Assistance League has taken on to make these students lives a bit easier.

I have been a member for six years. I joined because of their work with children. Operation Scool Bell helps to clothe over 3000 children each year. This is one of several programs supported by the group. The group operates a Thrift Shop to help fund all of the programs.

Assistance League of Omaha continues to provide for the needs of women and children in the greater Omaha area. Established in 1976, its membership has grown and we welcome all who wish to help our community through their volunteer efforts and financial support. Our programs address emotional and clothing needs of children through Operation Teddy Bear and Operation School Bell®. Support and encouragement is given to teen parents with a special emphasis on developing literacy of their pre-school children. Students who have college aspirations may attend low-cost ACT and PSAT review sessions. Various organizations in the community receive books to promote literacy. We also help women suffering from substance abuse, and offer a sense of dignity for victims of assault by providing Assault Survivor Kits®.

The efforts of Assistance League of Omaha volunteers have touched many lives. Witnessing the happy, smiling faces of children and the appreciative comments from parents of the students attending Operation School Bell is always the highlight of my many service activities. It is truly the vision of our organization that “essential needs are met in our community and families flourish.”

If you have ever been lucky enough to be at JC Penny's during the ALO's Operation School Bell, well that says it all about this group. If not then you have not seen the smiles on a youth's face shopping for new clothes and or re-calculating what monies they have left to spend on an awesome tshirt.
It truly is something special to witness.
The women that put this together are incredible, not to mention HARD Working.

When I moved to Omaha several years ago, I wanted to get involved with an organization that focused on the needs of children and adults. A member of the Assistance League of Omaha shared many of her rewarding experiences with me so I jumped on board and joined the league. It's been an honor and privilege to work with so many wonder ALO members. They have a steadfast focus and knowledge of the needs in our community. Many volunteers give a tremendous amount of time and talent. I have witnessed first hand the positive effects on so many children, families and adults we serve in our area.

I have been in Assistance League now for over 10 years and it has been very rewarding. I work with our Emergency School Bell program, which helps provide new school clothes for families that are in crisis. The situation could be from a fire, home eviction or domestic abuse. We also have school personnel call to see if a coat can be provided for a child who shows up in the winter without one! During our formal Operation School Bell program in October, we assist over 3,000 children with new clothing. It has been very surprising to me how much need exists in Omaha. I'm so glad that Assistance League, Omaha exists and can help our local children!

I have been a member of Assistance League of Omaha since 2008. I joined this non profit because of Operation School Bell. They help so many students in the Omaha area with clothing every year. Then I learned of all the other wonderful Philanthropic Programs that they support. It is special group of ladies who all volunteer their time and talents to help the Omaha Community in many ways. I am very proud to be part of this special group. They make a difference in the lives of children and adults in the Omaha Community.

I have had the opportunity to work at Operation School Bell the last seven years. I love seeing the children searching for just the right article of clothing to show off the next day at school. The smiles are so wide on their faces! One of the best smiles I see every year, is at the end of the shopping experience, they get to select a new book for their very own. Several children always ask if they get to keep the book. What fun it is for all of the participants and volunteers!

The Assistance League of Omaha helps students at my school who need warm winter clothing. For many students, these are the only items of new clothing that they have received in a long while - if ever. Seeing my students warm and confident in their new clothes, and hearing how grateful families are for this wonderful services makes me so thankful for the opportunity to work with this fantastic organization.

I am an Elementary School Counselor and have coordinated the Operation School Bell referrals at my schools for many years. This program makes such a huge difference for so many of our families! The students return to school so proud of their new clothing, and parents are so appreciative for the support! Shopping for warm/winter clothing and shoes through OSB takes a financial burden off of parents and allows them to put their limited resources toward other necessities. Students who receive the new clothing walk just a little taller when they return ~ it definitely boosts their self-esteem and gives them more confidence at school. Thank You, Operation School Bell/Assistance League of Omaha, for your continued support of our children and their families!!!

I'm an Elementary School Counselor and the OSB Coordinator at my school. I can't tell how how THANKFUL I am for OSB. We have many students who benefit from OSB. Students come back to school (after shopping at JCPenney) with a big smile on their face & tell me thank you. They love being able to shop, pick out some of their own clothes. Also, they have some new clothes that help them feel good about themselves, which helps them come to school & feel good so they can do their best learning! Thank you, OSB! I don't know what our students and our community would do without you!

As a school counselor, I have appreciated the ability to refer students and their families for clothing assistance each year. Families express their appreciation of this assistance each year. Families struggle to keep up with their children's growing bodies so often students wear pants that are too tight and or too short. Students often lack warm outwear and warm shoes or boots. I do believe that the Assistance League of Omaha helps reduce family financial stresses by assisting with clothing needs. Families can focus on other needs when they know their children have clothing that fits and is appropriate for the season.

OSB has helped so many Cody Elementary students over the years.
It is a wonderful program that truly meets the basic needs of Omaha children.
Our Cody kids are always so happy to show off there new clothes, coats and shoes. Having appropriate clothing makes a difference in self esteem!

As an employee of Omaha Public Schools I have been part of ALO's "Operation School
Bell" for 15+ years. The women of ALO have provided a wonderful service to the children of OPS generally and my school specifically. The effort and organization that they put into this program is amazing to see and it has grown every year. It is truly an amazing organization well worth the support of our community.

I have been a member of assistance league for over seven years. Our out reach to the community is so broad and we touch so many lives. Volunteering for this nonprofit has been a true joy.

I have been at both ends of Operation School Bell: First as a guardian with 2 young men who were over joyed to receive nice coats, new clothes and books from ALO women; Secondly as a volunteer seeing students thrilled from not only new clothes, but, jumping jack happy after receiving a new book!
Oh how meaningful this is to me, even as a volunteer!

I have helped with our ALO Operation School Bell for several years and every year is better than the last. We provide shopping cards to elementary aged children at our local Penney's store. We get referrals for the children in need from counselors/nurses at our local schools and then schedule the children into a time slot offered for shopping. The children come in, get their shopping card and an amount allotted and away they go. The sparkle in their eyes is beyond our expectations and is so fulfilling. Some children have never been to a department store let alone get new clothes! What would these needy families do without Operation School Bell? Their teachers always tell us the students come to school the next day in their new, clean clothes and it is an obvious boost to their self confidence. It is so satisfying to me as a volunteer to see these children and hear their stories knowing that Operation School Bell is making a huge difference in their young lives.

I worked 25 years as a School Nurse in the Omaha Public Schools. I helped register needy children in my elementary school for the annual Operation School Bell program funded by the Assistance League. First hand I saw the benefits of their fund raising efforts as clothing, shoes, and a book was given to those needy children. Through my career in the public school system I saw more families struggling to provide for their children with the increase costs of food, gas, shelter along with job losses and an influx of immigrants with limited resources. When I retired 2 years ago I joined the Assistance League of Omaha. I feel my volunteering helps to keep Operation School Bell going. The agency strives to serve more families each year.

Assistance League is an all volunteer non-profit. The women in this organization about our community and "making a difference" in people's lives. I have been a member since 1994 and my life has truly been enriched by serving our community. Operation School Bell is our flagship program, providing new clothing to school aged children who are in need of appropriate clothes to wear to school. This might include a heavy winter coat, new jeans, underwear and socks. Each student receives a voucher for a new pair of sneakers. The smiles, hugs and thank you' s that we receive will warm any heart. I am blessed to be a member of this passionate group of women who strive every day to "make a difference".

The Assistance League of Omaha is a fantastic organization that helps our families find assistance in school clothing for the school year. Many of our families need help to find uniforms and the Assistance League of Omaha and their organizers bless our families with being able to like nice and feel great about themselves while attending our school. Thank you from the bottom of our school community's hearts.

I have worked with the Assistance League of Omaha for the past 23 years, as they have generously supported our young teen parents by supplying incentives to stay in school, scholarships for furthering the post secondary education of teen parents, and by offering an inspiring celebration for those who graduate from high school. In addition, Operation Teen Parent has promoted literacy for young families by supplying books for school libraries and additional books for individual families to keep. Such help from the Assistance League of Omaha inspires our young parents to stay in school and provides excellent role models for a better life.

Selected students between Kindergarten and 8th grade are given the opportunity to shop with a voucher at JC Penny's for much needed clothing. Some students pick out a new winter coat, while others shop for new pants or shirts. These students are also given a coupon to get shoes at Payless Shoe Store as well as a new book to take home. The students love modeling their new clothes at school and their smiles beam with confidence. Families and students are so appreciative of this wonderful opportunity. I believe your donations are directly helping children with very limited clothing. By helping meet their basic needs, students will be better able to focus on their learning.

The Assistance League of Omaha is fantastic! For many years now they have provided winter clothing to several of our students at our elementary school. These are students that would go without new clothes or and even struggle to get a winter coat or shoes. The families are always appreciative of having this assistance. I see the students come in with their new clothes and coats and smiling so much because they have something new and clothes to keep them warm. So much thanks to ALO.

They are a great nonprofit. They give money to families that are struggling financially. Without the Assistance League's help many students would have to go without winter coats or new school clothing.

The ALO has helped children and families for years! For the School Bell program or in a emergency situation, they always respond to help our families find clothing, shoes, and coats. Thank you ALO for your support!
G. Bos

I have been a member of ALO since 2008, after enjoying a wonderful career as a teacher and school administrator. My volunteer pathway to Assistance League was a planned part of my retirement, I had witnessed the benefits to children in my classrooms and my desire to be a part of an organization supporting local needs, impacting children and adults was answered fully. It is a joy to volunteer with so many tireless and motivated people and to see joy on the faces of the recipients. Thank you Assistance League of Omaha. Rock on!

I work at a school, and this is the first year I have worked with the Assistance League of
Omaha's Operation School Bell. I had heard about the program, but never really was involved, so it was interesting and exciting to be a part of it! The professionalism of the staff at ALO was amazing, especially when I had made a few errors in my submission and they had to bail me out! The parents were grateful and the kids were excited to participate. It was heartwarming to see the kids come to school 'strutting' in their new clothes! What a wonderful program. Thank you for all you do!

Assistance League of Omaha is a wonderful organization! Every fall, they serve students through their Operation School Bell by allowing them to shop for clothes they need and coats for the upcoming winter. These shopping nights and weekends are very well organized and the students love getting the chance to pick out new clothes. The next day, you can see these students beaming with pride in their new clothes. What a blessing this organization is to the Omaha Community!

WOW!!! That's what id like to say about the Assistance League of Omaha. What a neat group they are, and friendly and if we lined them up all in a row their smiles would be all you would see!
I recently got to spend some time with these wonderful people at the "Operation School Bell" event that I have actually had the pleasure of attending 3 yrs. In a row now and Ive thanked God for the Assistance every year. It gives my son and myself some quality / positive time together shopping for clothes/coats that without the help would probably be a stressful situation, as I'm sure some of you know.
I really would like to say thank you to the members of this awesome organization and how appreciative my son and I are that they continue to be so careing and so friendly. Thanks you guys you are all amazing!!!

Gratefully recieved $80 for my son's school clothes tonight. The Assistance Legue's generousity is big help for me as a single mother. Although I wprk full-time, in fast food, finding money left for clothes after paying necessary living expenses seldom happens. My sons was thrilled getting "new" clothes for a change.
The ladies volunteering tonight were very nice and helpful.
Thank you so much!

As a member of this organization for over 8 years, I am very proud to say this is a group
where the majority of our 350+ members all support and work our philanthropic projects.
It takes our large membership numbers to cloth over 3400 local school children, support
Santa Monica house, distribute clothing for assault victims, give bears for children at
hospitals, assist with ACT/PSAT and involved with teen parents. Don't miss our successful
thrift store @ 36th & Leavenworth. We do all of this and more with almost 100% volunteer staffing only!

I am amazed at all times the groups this nonprofit helps.
I love the thrift store where many people search out clothing every week, the prices are reasonable and the customers love the atmosphere?
The collection for Santa Monica house will help many girls struggling to get back on track.

When it is cold outside it is hard to arrive at school ready to learn - if all you can think about is how cold you are from walking there without a decent coat.
It is hard to concentrate on studies when your shoes have rubbed painful blisters on your feet because they are two sizes too small and you try to hide your embarrassment when your teacher asks why your parents don't get you new shoes.
It is hard to make friends at school when you try to avoid questions about why you wear the same clothes everyday.
It's hard to be young and poor and powerless to change your situation.
Operation School Bell provides 50 children at our inner-city school with the opportunity to
shop for a warm coat, shoes that fit, or a few outfits to allow them to fit-in with friends.
The faces of the children change every year - but the excitement and positive effects to those served is always the same. Better attendance - more focused on studies and peer acceptance.
For many of the children it is their first time in a mall or 'new' store. The first time they can actually choose their own clothes and have things that are the right sizes or 'fit'.
We are so thankful to have this opportunity for some of our students each year.
It has truly been a blessing.

ALO does so much for so many. It has a Teen program that gives incentives to teen parents in school. We also help children with new clothes for school. Teddy bears for kids with trauma.
I could go on and on. We do this with no paid staff. Really a great non-profit

Assistance league of Omaha is a wonderful organization that is committed to helping people all over the city and surrounding areas. it is made up of hundreds of women who desire to help others.

I am a school counselor and the Assistance League of Omaha directly serves my students by providing clothing for kids in needy families. This is meaningful to kids and families and helps them tremendously. The Assistance League of Omaha is great to work with and does really good things for the community.

The Assistance League of Omaha is a wonderful organization that does much to help adults and children in the Omaha area. Through our Operation Schoolbell each year we provide new clothing and shoes for over 3500 children. Other projects include providing clothing and hygiene kits at hospitals for assault victims. As a new member of this group I am inspired by the dedication of the members and all they do.

I have been a member of Assistance League for the past 8 years. We are an organization which provides many services throughout the community. Not only do we help clothe over 3000 children each fall with school clothes, our organization is involved with providing clothing and hygiene kits to adults and children who are assault victims. In addition we support teen parents and encourage them to complete their education and also support the residents of Santa Monica House, encouraging them in reaching their goals of becoming free of dependency on drugs and alcohol. We organize low cost review sessions to prepare students to take college entrance exams and also work with the area hospitals and police to provide teddy bears to comfort children in need. Assistance League Omaha is an organization of all volunteers with over 350 members who work year round to fund our programs. I am glad to say that I have been able to be a part of this group!

Assistance League of Omaha runs a terrific program called Operation School Bell that helps children in our community get new school clothes and shoes. Students and families love this program, and I am thrilled to be able to offer some of our students such a wonderful experience.

One of our girls said to me, "In my country, girls were not allowed to go to school, but in this country people even helped us get clothes to wear at our school."

We are an all-volunteer philanthropic organization that raises money throughout the year to fund our efforts. The biggest of these is Operation School Bell, which provides new school clothes each year for needy children. Last year more than 3500 local children were helped. We also provide assault survivor kits to all the area hospitals. When a woman is assaulted, the clothes that she's wearing are often needed as evidence. The kits consist of a season-appropriate top and bottom, undies, and a toiletry kit, which allows the woman the dignity of being clothed when she leaves the hospital. These are just two of our programs that are in place to primarily help women and children in need.

The Assistance League of Omaha is a remarkable group of volunteers that continues every year with many wonderful programs for the community. The Operation School Bell program that clothes 3400+ children in need throughout the city with new school clothes, and adult programs also that help victims of assault, those in need of help in job search, and many more programs make this an amazing group in the accomplishments every year. I have been a member since 2003 and the spirit, skills, and energy of the volunteers continues to inspire me to do more also and be included in the wonderful work beings done.

As a teacher, I knew first hand how this program impacts the children in this community. I had many of my students who received new clothes, coats, jeans and gloves. Now that I am retired, I am part of this wonderful organization. This fall, we will clothe about 4,000 children with new clothing. This is one of my favorite events because as I watch these children look and try on new clothing, the smiles tell the story. At the end of the evening, they love to show off their new clothing and their brand new book. So many hugs, smiles and a big thank you from the parents and children, make this event worthwhile. But this is not the only program that our organization does for the Omaha area. We provide kits to assault victims, teddy bears to fire and police to give to children, and our teen program and Santa Monica program make a difference in the lives of the people we serve. What a great organization!!

Many families have been referred and blessed by Assistance League of Omaha's "back to school" shopping outreach. In addition, the Assistance League of Omaha's Emergency Response Team has helped to clothe children in our community in need through out the school year, too.

Assistance League of Omaha is just that...........ASSISTANCE to local adults and children in need. One of ALO's great services is providing assault survival kits to hospitals and shelters that includes a sweat suit and personal care items for rape and assault survivors when clothing is retained as evidence by law enforcement officers. Otherwise the victim might have to leave the hospital in a paper gown! ALO started the program in 1994 and has distributed more than 6,200 kits since then.

I have been in the Assistance League of Omaha for 5 years and it has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. Working with such talented women and doing so much "great work" for the Greater Omaha area has enriched my life and the lives of so many children and adults.

I have been a member of Assistance League of Omaha since 1998. The organization does so much good in the community. Its biggest program is Operation School Bell which annually closed 3400+ children in the Omaha area. ALO is truly a hands-on organization. The fellowship with other members is an added blessing.

This is an organization that helps kids and what could be more important for the future of our city and country. Their members work many hours to achieve their goals. A very large percentage of members were in the educational field; therefore know the needs of children are real.

This is the most organized group of women I have ever seen. They see a need in the community and form committees to get the project finished. Operation School Bell
is their biggest program, clothing over 3500 needy children every year! Each child in
the program receives school clothes, new shoes, and a new book of their choice. It
makes such a difference in their self-confidence and attitude about attending school.
They want to look like everyone else and new clothes help them feel better about themselves!

Assistance League of Omaha is comprised of over 360 women who give their time and talents to make a positive impact on the community. Operation School Bell serves about 3500 students each year, providing them with school clothes and new shoes. As a teacher I know how exciting it is for my students to come to school with new clothes! Their smiles absolutely light up the room and I can see their confidence grow. I really appreciate the efforts of the amazing ladies of Assistance League of Omaha. Thank you!

Assistance League of Omaha has been helping people in the greater Omaha area for 40 years. They some of the activities they fund, organize, and carry-out are: Operation School Bell-provides school clothes for over 3,000 children every year; Assault Survivor Kits-provide clothing and toiletries at the local hospitals for people that have been victims of assaults; Operation Recovery-provide supports in various ways for women recovering from addiction! There are other ways they help our community, but this would be too lengthy. As a retired school teacher, I can personally vouch for the benefits this organization provides for our city,

As a school social worker for Millard Public Schools, I have seen first hand the benefits Operation School Bell for many students and their families! The Assistance League of Omaha has provided many of our students the opportunity to receive new clothing. In addition, the students are able to pick out clothing according to their needs and taste for fashion. I have observed students wearing their new clothing to school with smiles and confidence. The staff, parents and students greatly appreciate the generosity of the Operation School Bell program!

This charity is wonderful! They help thousands of kids with clothing across the metro area.

Millard students and families are so appreciative of the Assistance League of Omaha's Operation School Bell Program and all the volunteer work this amazing group does to provide clothes, shoes, coats, and books each fall. Thank you for all you do!!

Every year our school is given the opportunity to participate in Operation School Bell, allowing our students who need the most an opportunity to shop for new school clothes. I have participated for the last four years and this program is amazing! I watch our students come into school proudly wearing their new clothes and I am always grateful the the Assistance League for their help. This year we had some emergencies that came up just as we were turning in our list and we were able to connect these families with this program and it truly was a blessing at the right time. Thank you all for everything you do! Please know that we are extremely grateful :)

THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME A OPPURTUNITY TO GET CLOTHING AND COATS FOR SCHOOL

Assistance League of Omaha is a great Non Profit and I would love to thank them for helping my two boys out with winter clothing as I am a single mother and sometimes its hard to make ends meet.

Thank you for all you do for Omaha and my family!
Christin

This organization's work is greatly appreciated in Omaha by the children and families it assists. It is run and led entirely by volunteers which maximizes the dollars raised for the programs. It's great to see the smiles on the faces of kids who get to shop for new school clothes, many for the first time.

The programs that Assistance League of Omaha offers is phenomenal! Our students benefit greatly from Operation School Bell and the assistance that they provide. We are able to identify who doesn't have their basic needs met and Assistance League helps us provide for our students. We are so thankful for all they do. The students have the opportunity to pick out their own new clothes and coats which for some is a brand new experience. They are so excited!

As a public school teacher, I have witnessed the need for adequate clothing for school children in need and warm coats to endure the Nebraska winters. Operation School Bell, a philanthropic program of ALO, provides clothing for needy area school children. For many of these children, it is the first time they actually get to shop for new clothes. ALO will also provide emergency clothing when contacted by various agencies that work with children in crisis. Having family members and close friends that work with foster children makes me very aware of the need. Many of these children arrive with the clothes on their backs or all of their worldly possessions in a paper bag. ALO also provides teddy bears for first responders and hospitals to give as comfort to children. The ALO programs also help women recovering from addiction, provide clothing and toiletries for women that have been assaulted, support for a program that helps teen parents graduate from high school, and more. The women in this organization volunteer many hours to raise the funds to support these programs and to carry out the goals of the organization. They make our city a kinder and more loving place to live.

I have been volunteering with Assistance League of Omaha for 5 years. This organization gives one the opportunity to help others in our community who are less fortunate or who may be in difficult or crisis situations. Our motto "Touching lives - Making a difference" inspires our members to take action, not merely talk, when seeing a need for assistance or support. I see from the inside the many dedicated, admirable women who give their time unselfishly to improve the lives of others.

I have been a long time volunteer. The fulfillment with ALO however has been optimum. As a member, one can find many ways to meet the needs of children and adults in the greater Omaha area. Seeing the joy on children's faces when they try on their new clothes provided by ALO's Operation School Bell is heartwarming. I also love to see our Thrift Shop customers smile as they find treasures in our shop. The simple fact is that ALO and its members provide a chance to serve others!

I have been a member of Assistance League of Omaha since 2007. I joined after retiring from 30 years of teaching; I met wonderful, dedicated, talented women who are passionate about helping others. We work very hard to raise enough money to support our programs. Assistance League of Omaha has offered many opportunities for growth both personally and professionally. It's work feeds my soul.

Our signature program is Operation School Bell, which provides a shopping experience at a mall and new clothes for over 3400 children each year.

Here is a thank you from a 6th grade English language learner: " My new clotes made me feel about how I shood be happyer about my life. After I got my new clothes I felt happyer. When I first try them on I felt like "Wow". I was astonished by the new clothes. I wore them on the first day!"

Here is another from a 5th grader: "Thank you for your gift. Now I have many clothing and thanks for the head phones that came with the shirt. My mom was happy. I got good clothes Because of you, I couldn't have done it without you. Thanks for the shoes that you could by with the gift card. Thanks for putting money for use and it is hurting to be cold so you needed a jacket so we don't miss school or be sick. What should I say. You guys thank you so much. I wish I can set a party for you guys or I could make you guys the Best."

Seeing the joy on the children's faces makes all of our work worthwhile. Knowing that women who are assaulted can leave the hospital with some dignity feels good. Helping women who are overcoming drug and/or alcohol dependency transition back into a productive life is gratifying. Encouraging young teens who have become parents too early to stay in school and celebrating their achievement is heartwarming. We do much good work. Assistance League has changed my life. I am thankful for it.

Our daughter was sexually assaulted. One positive moment during that horrific evening was when she was handed a kit containing a change of clothing and a hygiene kit so she could shower, brush her teeth, etc. In the kit was a piece of paper that said, "Provided with caring concern form the Assistance League of Omaha." When a woman is physically or sexually assaulted, law enforcement takes all her clothing as evidence. We discovered that ALO provides Assault Survivor Kits to all Omaha area hospitals and, in fact, is the only nonprofit or agency who provides this wonderful service. Because of ALO's kindness, our daughter was able to walk out of the emergency room with some dignity.