Initiative
Village School Partnerships
Imagine a city where... every child reaches their full potential.
Connecting the Community with Local Schools
Intentional growth so each partnership remains strong and supported.
100
villages by 2035
13 villages*
50
Title 1 schools
6 schools*
107
metro schools served
83 schools*
* current progress toward the goal
How it works
Village School Partnerships connect churches, businesses, and volunteers directly with local schools to build a village of care around every student.
From mentoring students and encouraging educators to meeting tangible needs, each partnership creates a ripple effect of hope, stability, and transformation.
The partners listen to the unique needs of the school, then, empowered to take ownership and become part of the solution in their own neighborhoods, they respond with consistent, relationship-driven support.
We have a growing number of thriving Village School Partnerships across the Omaha Metro — and there's room for you. Whether you're an individual, church, business, or nonprofit, we'd love to connect you to a village.
Why it matters
Schools are already doing important work in the city. What is often missing is coordinated support from the surrounding community.
These partnerships make it easier for people to step in, stay involved, and contribute in ways that actually help — allowing every school and student to thrive.
Love Our Schools Day
September 26, 2026
Love Our Schools Day is an annual hands-on, community-wide volunteer event where individuals, families, churches, businesses, and nonprofits come together to serve local schools through meaningful projects.
Whether it's painting classrooms, planting gardens, refreshing playgrounds, or assembling care packages for teachers, every act of service contributes to creating vibrant, welcoming environments for students and staff.
We’re already having an impact
5 school districts
- Omaha
- Millard
- Ralston
- Bellevue
- Elkhorn
13 schools
- Bryan High School
- Andersen Middle School
- Rockwell Elementary
- Cather Elementary
- Millard North Middle School
- Lewis & Clark Middle School
- Miller Park Elementary
- Blumfield Elementary
- Conestoga Elementary
- G. Stanley Hall Elementary
- Betz Elementary
- Beveridge Middle School
- Martin Luther King Elementary
7,383 students and 486 staff
Want a deeper look at how this works?
What makes a Village School Partnership different from a typical school partnership?
Village School Partnerships are built for long-term, coordinated support. Using the School Connect model, they help schools and community partners move beyond occasional help and build relationships that are aligned, sustainable, and shaped by the school’s real priorities.
What is the School Connect model?
The School Connect model is the framework behind Village School Partnerships. It helps schools and community partners listen well, identify real needs, and build support that is healthy, consistent, and rooted in trust.
What is a School Champion?
A School Champion is the local point person who helps move the partnership forward. They help gather partners, stay connected to the school, and keep the work aligned with the larger vision.
What if I already have a relationship with a school?
That is a valuable starting point. Village School Partnerships can help strengthen existing relationships by adding structure, support, and a wider network of partners around the school.
What is the best first step if I want to get involved?
Start by reaching out. Within Reach can help you explore whether it makes sense to join an existing partnership, learn more about the model, or take steps toward becoming a School Champion. Take the next step by filling out this online form.
State of the City
In 2023, we listened to our neighbors and leaders across the Omaha Metro to understand what helps our city thrive and where our greatest needs lie.