Community engagement is a cornerstone of Lincoln’s identity, with numerous organizations and initiatives dedicated to fostering connections and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
NeighborWorks Lincoln: Strengthening Neighborhoods
NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL) has been a pivotal force in community development since 1986. Their Community Building and Engagement program focuses on cultivating neighborhood capacity through appreciative inquiry and asset-based community development. NWL engages residents in environmental improvement projects, neighborhood events, advocacy, and leadership development, connecting diverse cultural communities with resources that enhance neighborhood identity and foster authentic connections. Learn more about their approach.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln: Academic Engagement
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) emphasizes community engagement as part of its land-grant mission. The university collaborates with local organizations to address community needs through research, outreach, and service-learning programs. UNL’s Public Policy Center, for instance, works on projects like Lincoln Vital Signs and Prosper Lincoln, providing data and facilitating initiatives aimed at community improvement. Discover more about their community engagement efforts.
Lincoln Community Foundation: Catalyzing Positive Change
The Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) serves as a catalyst for positive change by uniting people, institutions, and resources. Guided by data from Lincoln Vital Signs, LCF convenes diverse voices to craft the Prosper Lincoln community agenda, focusing on uplifting early childhood, housing, and social and economic connections. Explore their impact on the community.
Honesty Project: Empowering At-Risk Youth
The Honesty Project is dedicated to providing at-risk youth in Lincoln with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Through programs like Good Honest Fun and Honesty Helps, the organization offers pro-social events, skill-building opportunities, and mentorship to empower individuals and promote integrity, self-reliance, and social responsibility. Learn more about their mission.
These initiatives exemplify Lincoln’s commitment to building a connected and engaged community, where residents have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the city’s vibrant social fabric.

