Civic Nebraska
@civicnebraska.bsky.social
We create a more modern and robust democracy for all Nebraskans.
›› CivicNebraska.org
›› CivicNebraska.org
Before heading into the season of holiday gatherings, take a moment to ground yourself with our curated list of resources for civil discourse. ›› civicnebraska.org/civic-health...
Civil Discourse Resources - Civic Nebraska
Civil Discourse Resources Resources to have better – and authentically American – arguments. America began as an argument. From the Founding to today, our American identity is rooted in debate, discou...
civicnebraska.org
November 26, 2025 at 5:16 PM
Before heading into the season of holiday gatherings, take a moment to ground yourself with our curated list of resources for civil discourse. ›› civicnebraska.org/civic-health...
A brief scene in the Netflix dramedy "A Man on the Inside" tells us a lot about how we perceive what's real and what's not – and what that means for our shared democratic reality. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251124-scr...
The screen, the table, and us - Civic Nebraska
A quiet moment in A Man on the Inside – a mother questioning her son’s digital friendship – reveals the complexity of civic life in 2025.
civicnebraska.org
November 24, 2025 at 8:41 PM
A brief scene in the Netflix dramedy "A Man on the Inside" tells us a lot about how we perceive what's real and what's not – and what that means for our shared democratic reality. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251124-scr...
When trust in the system erodes but belief in democracy remains, a vacuum is created that only communities can fill. That's where neighbors, civic groups, and local leaders step in – to show all of us what self-government looks like when it's practiced up close. civicnebraska.org/20251120-dem...
The democracy we want, and the one we see - Civic Nebraska
Americans overwhelmingly support democracy but doubt the system delivering it.
civicnebraska.org
November 20, 2025 at 11:04 PM
When trust in the system erodes but belief in democracy remains, a vacuum is created that only communities can fill. That's where neighbors, civic groups, and local leaders step in – to show all of us what self-government looks like when it's practiced up close. civicnebraska.org/20251120-dem...
If you believe in strong neighborhoods, thriving youth, and community partnerships that make a real difference, this is your place. Lead programming, support families, guide staff, build relationships, and help students grow. ›› civicnebraska.org/job/site-dir...
Site Director – Sherman Elementary – Civic Nebraska
civicnebraska.org
November 19, 2025 at 7:56 PM
If you believe in strong neighborhoods, thriving youth, and community partnerships that make a real difference, this is your place. Lead programming, support families, guide staff, build relationships, and help students grow. ›› civicnebraska.org/job/site-dir...
“This victory is not just mine,” Charlie told a raucous assembly of fellow students at Meadows, as well as a statewide audience watching along. “It belongs to every fifth grader in Nebraska who wants to make a real difference in our state.” civicnebraska.org/20251118-cha...
Charlie Couch elected Nebraska's Kid Governor® - Civic Nebraska
Charlie won the statewide election after hundreds of fifth-graders viewed campaign videos, weighed candidates’ ideas, and cast ballots between Nov. 3-12.
civicnebraska.org
November 18, 2025 at 9:05 PM
“This victory is not just mine,” Charlie told a raucous assembly of fellow students at Meadows, as well as a statewide audience watching along. “It belongs to every fifth grader in Nebraska who wants to make a real difference in our state.” civicnebraska.org/20251118-cha...
What holds democracy together? A shared sense of what’s real. At Civic Saturday on Nov. 15, we dug into how we protect that. Full gathering and sermon here ›› civicnebraska.org/20251115-the...
These Truths: a civic sermon - Civic Nebraska
In a democracy, truth is not a luxury. It’s the very scaffolding that holds up our collective life.
civicnebraska.org
November 15, 2025 at 9:48 PM
What holds democracy together? A shared sense of what’s real. At Civic Saturday on Nov. 15, we dug into how we protect that. Full gathering and sermon here ›› civicnebraska.org/20251115-the...
Less movement can mean fewer opportunities, slower wage gains, and less innovation. But there’s another side to this story, one that’s not about GDP, but about civic life: What happens to it when Americans stop moving? civicnebraska.org/20250818-ame...
America is staying put. That doesn't mean we're stuck.
Investing in local civic infrastructure keeps democratic life pushing forward, even if Americans are not moving right now.
civicnebraska.org
November 12, 2025 at 6:34 PM
Less movement can mean fewer opportunities, slower wage gains, and less innovation. But there’s another side to this story, one that’s not about GDP, but about civic life: What happens to it when Americans stop moving? civicnebraska.org/20250818-ame...
When everything gets pulled into the same national argument, we risk seeing others not as neighbors but symbols of what's wrong with the nation. That's when we must invest attention, time, and care in the people and places closest to us. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251109-los...
Lost in your news feed? Time to look locally. - Civic Nebraska
National outrage dominates our feeds. But we endure by focusing locally and showing up for one another.
civicnebraska.org
November 10, 2025 at 4:31 PM
When everything gets pulled into the same national argument, we risk seeing others not as neighbors but symbols of what's wrong with the nation. That's when we must invest attention, time, and care in the people and places closest to us. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251109-los...
Fifth graders around the state are voting for one of seven finalists to become Nebraska's first Kid Governor®! Check out this roundup of each student's platform from the Lincoln Journal Star. journalstar.com/news/local/e...
Meet the governor candidates: Students share vision for better Nebraska
Ever wondered what kids would do if they could be governor? Well, a group of students in the Cornhusker State are currently battling for a chance to do just that.
journalstar.com
November 7, 2025 at 6:35 PM
Fifth graders around the state are voting for one of seven finalists to become Nebraska's first Kid Governor®! Check out this roundup of each student's platform from the Lincoln Journal Star. journalstar.com/news/local/e...
Here we go! From Nov. 3-12, participating fifth-grade classrooms across Nebraska are watching each Kid Governor® candidate's campaign videos, discussing the issues, and casting their ballots. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251103-vot...
Voting begins to elect Nebraska’s first Kid Governor - Civic Nebraska
From Nov. 3-12, fifth-grade classrooms across Nebraska will vote for one of these seven amazing students.
civicnebraska.org
November 3, 2025 at 5:09 PM
Here we go! From Nov. 3-12, participating fifth-grade classrooms across Nebraska are watching each Kid Governor® candidate's campaign videos, discussing the issues, and casting their ballots. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251103-vot...
This week, Lothrop CLC kindergartners made pizza crafts, pumpkin projects, and sparkling snow globes. Third graders launched the Read and Feed Club, and fifth graders produced an awesome Halloween video with the STEM AIM Institute. Our Panthers learn, lead, and shine every day! #LothropLove
October 31, 2025 at 3:20 PM
This week, Lothrop CLC kindergartners made pizza crafts, pumpkin projects, and sparkling snow globes. Third graders launched the Read and Feed Club, and fifth graders produced an awesome Halloween video with the STEM AIM Institute. Our Panthers learn, lead, and shine every day! #LothropLove
When truth blurs and citizens tune out, power concentrates. We must pay attention, ask questions, support local journalism, protect fair elections, and stay connected. Here are five ways everyday Nebraskans can stay vigilant and take action. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251028-war...
The warning has arrived. The response starts here. - Civic Nebraska
A new report outlines clear dangers to U.S. democracy. The good news: Citizens have extraordinary power to reinforce transparency, strengthen elections, and keep civic life open.
civicnebraska.org
October 29, 2025 at 3:40 PM
When truth blurs and citizens tune out, power concentrates. We must pay attention, ask questions, support local journalism, protect fair elections, and stay connected. Here are five ways everyday Nebraskans can stay vigilant and take action. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251028-war...
The Idea of America Fellowship builds strong leaders by building relationships across lines of difference. A past fellow describes how leadership doesn’t mean always agreeing, but being willing to learn, listen, and stay in conversation. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251028-fin...
Finding friendship, candor in Idea of America Fellowship - Civic Nebraska
A 2024 Idea of America fellow shares how the fellowship gave her a much-needed perspective on local leadership.
civicnebraska.org
October 28, 2025 at 2:28 PM
The Idea of America Fellowship builds strong leaders by building relationships across lines of difference. A past fellow describes how leadership doesn’t mean always agreeing, but being willing to learn, listen, and stay in conversation. ›› civicnebraska.org/20251028-fin...
"The things that are happening in Nebraska make me optimistic for our future. However we can share that with the rest of the country, that's ultimately what we're here to do.” – Nancy Petitto, Civic Nebraska
thefulcrum.us/civic-engage...
thefulcrum.us/civic-engage...
Advancing Voting Rights and Civic Engagement in Nebraska
The 50 is a four-year multimedia project in which the Fulcrum visits different communities across all 50 states to learn what motivated them to vote in the 2024 presidential election and see how the D...
thefulcrum.us
October 27, 2025 at 4:23 PM
"The things that are happening in Nebraska make me optimistic for our future. However we can share that with the rest of the country, that's ultimately what we're here to do.” – Nancy Petitto, Civic Nebraska
thefulcrum.us/civic-engage...
thefulcrum.us/civic-engage...
Civic health is a shared belief that institutions serve the public good, education is an investment, and our state grows by nurturing talent. Those foundations weaken when we frame higher ed as a partisan battleground or reduce it to a ledger line. ››
civicnebraska.org/2025-protect...
civicnebraska.org/2025-protect...
Protecting our flagship, protecting ourselves - Civic Nebraska
When a university’s budget is slashed year after year, our state loses momentum, hope, and faith in what we can accomplish together.
civicnebraska.org
October 23, 2025 at 6:42 PM
Civic health is a shared belief that institutions serve the public good, education is an investment, and our state grows by nurturing talent. Those foundations weaken when we frame higher ed as a partisan battleground or reduce it to a ledger line. ››
civicnebraska.org/2025-protect...
civicnebraska.org/2025-protect...
There's always something fun, educational, and enriching happening at our Sherman Elementary CLC. #ThePlaceToBe
October 23, 2025 at 3:22 PM
There's always something fun, educational, and enriching happening at our Sherman Elementary CLC. #ThePlaceToBe
Let's experience Strengthening Democracy Awards one last time together, shall we? civicnebraska.org/20251021-rep...
Replay: Strengthening Democracy Awards - Civic Nebraska
Take a look back at images and video from our annual gala celebrating our fellow Nebraskans.
civicnebraska.org
October 21, 2025 at 5:44 PM
Let's experience Strengthening Democracy Awards one last time together, shall we? civicnebraska.org/20251021-rep...
Marching shows you care. Now, show you’re committed. Our open letter from June has six suggestions on where to go from here. ››
civicnebraska.org/20250614-ope...
civicnebraska.org/20250614-ope...
An open letter to 'No Kings' participants - Civic Nebraska
A march is a moment, but a movement is always in motion.
civicnebraska.org
October 18, 2025 at 9:59 PM
Marching shows you care. Now, show you’re committed. Our open letter from June has six suggestions on where to go from here. ››
civicnebraska.org/20250614-ope...
civicnebraska.org/20250614-ope...
The 2025 Strengthening Democracy Awards was a night of inspiration, art, and gratitude. Jewel Rodgers’ thunderous keynote and the joy that filled the room showed us that democracy is alive, creative, and made real by people who care and connect. Relive the evening at CivicNebraska.org/sda-2025.
October 17, 2025 at 9:27 PM
The 2025 Strengthening Democracy Awards was a night of inspiration, art, and gratitude. Jewel Rodgers’ thunderous keynote and the joy that filled the room showed us that democracy is alive, creative, and made real by people who care and connect. Relive the evening at CivicNebraska.org/sda-2025.
Kris oversees the Finance and People & Culture teams, directs core operational strategies, and works closely with senior leadership to build efficient, transparent systems that align with Civic Nebraska’s long-term goals. Welcome, Kris! civicnebraska.org/20251010-mee...
Meet Kris Hess, director of operations - Civic Nebraska
The Omahan brings deep experience in strategic planning, finance, HR, and regulatory compliance to our team.
civicnebraska.org
October 10, 2025 at 4:39 PM
Kris oversees the Finance and People & Culture teams, directs core operational strategies, and works closely with senior leadership to build efficient, transparent systems that align with Civic Nebraska’s long-term goals. Welcome, Kris! civicnebraska.org/20251010-mee...
RSVPs close at 11:59 pm CDT today [10.6.25]. Reserve your seat now and join us for a powerful evening honoring civic courage and community.
Get tickets here ›› bit.ly/SDA25tix
Get tickets here ›› bit.ly/SDA25tix
October 6, 2025 at 2:37 PM
RSVPs close at 11:59 pm CDT today [10.6.25]. Reserve your seat now and join us for a powerful evening honoring civic courage and community.
Get tickets here ›› bit.ly/SDA25tix
Get tickets here ›› bit.ly/SDA25tix
Leo Louis II has been a force for civic connection in Omaha – from gang intervention and urban farming to rallies, youth mentorship, and the film MY OMAHA. We’re proud to honor him with the 2025 Founder’s Award. Join us 10.16.25 to celebrate! ›› civicnebraska.org/strengthenin...
Strengthening Democracy: Leo Louis II - Civic Nebraska
The Omahan is the 2025 Adam Morfeld Founder’s Award honoree for a lifetime of community organizing, bridge-building, and civic leadership.
civicnebraska.org
October 3, 2025 at 2:41 PM
Leo Louis II has been a force for civic connection in Omaha – from gang intervention and urban farming to rallies, youth mentorship, and the film MY OMAHA. We’re proud to honor him with the 2025 Founder’s Award. Join us 10.16.25 to celebrate! ›› civicnebraska.org/strengthenin...
Strengthening Democracy Awards are almost here. Join us Oct. 16 as we celebrate six Nebraskans whose everyday actions make our democracy stronger. Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can basis.
RSVPs close Oct. 6. Be a part of this inspiring evening! ›› civicnebraska.org/20251002-six...
RSVPs close Oct. 6. Be a part of this inspiring evening! ›› civicnebraska.org/20251002-six...
Six remarkable Nebraskans. One unforgettable night. - Civic Nebraska
Civic Nebraska’s Strengthening Democracy Awards are Oct. 16 – and ticket reservations close soon! Don’t miss this powerful evening of recognition and inspiration at the historic Livestock Exchange Bal...
civicnebraska.org
October 2, 2025 at 8:27 PM
Strengthening Democracy Awards are almost here. Join us Oct. 16 as we celebrate six Nebraskans whose everyday actions make our democracy stronger. Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can basis.
RSVPs close Oct. 6. Be a part of this inspiring evening! ›› civicnebraska.org/20251002-six...
RSVPs close Oct. 6. Be a part of this inspiring evening! ›› civicnebraska.org/20251002-six...
Civic Nebraska’s new Apiary Fellowship empowers local leaders to strengthen democracy from the ground up. 🐝
Nominations open through Oct. 31. ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-api...
Nominations open through Oct. 31. ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-api...
The Apiary: a fellowship to empower local civic leaders - Civic Nebraska
The yearlong fellowship brings together emerging leaders from towns, cities, and campuses across our state.
civicnebraska.org
September 29, 2025 at 2:09 PM
Civic Nebraska’s new Apiary Fellowship empowers local leaders to strengthen democracy from the ground up. 🐝
Nominations open through Oct. 31. ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-api...
Nominations open through Oct. 31. ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-api...
We're proud to honor Ella Fundus with the 2025 Young Civic Leader Award. Through years of service, Ella has empowered young people, amplified unheard voices, and helped shape Nebraska’s civic future. Join us 10.16.25 to celebrate Ella and her fellow honorees! ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-str...
Strengthening Democracy: Ella Fundus - Civic Nebraska
The Lincolnite is honored for her service and commitment to empowering others, particularly youth with disabilities, through theater, mentorship, and advocacy.
civicnebraska.org
September 29, 2025 at 12:55 PM
We're proud to honor Ella Fundus with the 2025 Young Civic Leader Award. Through years of service, Ella has empowered young people, amplified unheard voices, and helped shape Nebraska’s civic future. Join us 10.16.25 to celebrate Ella and her fellow honorees! ›› civicnebraska.org/20250929-str...