Who is
CHILD SAVING INSTITUTE
All families need support. At Child Saving Institute, we believe all families deserve support that’s connected, consistent and built around their real lives —not a maze of disconnected services.
For generations, CSI has been a trusted partner and community leader by intentionally bringing essential services together in one place—so families can build relationships that last. Through educational services, mental and behavioral health care, in‑home and in‑school family support and residential treatment during times of crisis, CSI is designed to serve families with a wide range of needs—without interruptions in care.
Families come to us for different reasons, but the goal is always the same: meet them where they are and remain a consistent partner as their needs change. That’s Child Saving Institute: one organization, supporting families over time.
A season of growth and MEANINGFUL CHANGE
Dear Friends,
This past year at Child Saving Institute (CSI) has been one of growth, transformation and meaningful progress. As you explore this issue of “Hope in Action” we trust those themes shine through on every page. We are incredibly proud of the
growth we’ve seen. This is only made possible from generous donors, supporters and community members, like you.
We are honored to be a trusted, steadfast source of support for children and families in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. Our expansion within the last year includes our merger with Children’s Square.
While the capital campaign for our Mary Holland campus has successfully concluded, we are thrilled to share that initial improvements will take place at the Children’s Square campus in Council Bluffs. These renovations are part of a larger capital project and have been thoughtfully planned in partnership with the Lemen family, with deep respect for the rich history and legacy of Children’s Square. You can learn more about this decision on page six of this issue.
As you read this issue of “Hope in Action” you’ll meet children and families whose lives are being changed by compassion, consistency and care. This work is only possible because of a community that believes every child deserves safety, stability and hope.
Whether you have supported CSI for years or are just getting to know us, we are grateful you are part of this journey. We invite you to continue standing beside us as we build brighter futures together.
With Heart & Humanity,
Jaymes Sime
President & CEO
Child Saving Institute
CABARET 2026
A night that made a difference
On April 10, we gathered at the CHI Health Center for Cabaret—our largest annual fundraiser— and for the first time ever in this space. Thanks to the leadership of our chairs, Shikhar and Kristin Saxena and Andy and Collette Lozier, the night was a tremendous success. The energy in the room was unforgettable, culminating in a hilarious performance by comedian Dustin Nickerson and an outpouring of community support.
Funds raised through Cabaret directly support vital programs, including Foster Care and our Behavioral Health Center, where children and families receive the care and stability they need to heal and grow.
One powerful example is Kelly, a foster mom who welcomed JJ and Maddie—two children carrying deep trauma—into her home. With support from Child Saving Institute, what began as foster care became a forever family. Over time, both children found healing, confidence and belonging, and their adoption was finalized in 2025.
Be sure to join CSI next year for Cabaret on Friday, April 16, 2027, at the CHI Health Center.
Community attendance to this annual event allows CSI programs to provide hope, safety and stability to children throughout Nebraska and Southwest Iowa.
Investing in the FUTURE OF CHILDREN
In 2025, Child Saving Institute (CSI) was proud to complete an initial capital campaign to improve and expand services at the Mary Holland campus in Omaha. This included an expansion of our mental and behavioral health services, our youth shelter and our Early Childhood Education classrooms. It’s because of this expansion that CSI has been able to serve more children and meet more families where they are.
CSI has now announced plans to begin a series of initial capital improvements on its Children’s Square campus in Council Bluffs. These improvements are focused on ensuring safe, functional and sustainable facilities that meet the evolving needs of children and families across the metro and Southwest Iowa.
This work, expected to begin later this year, represents the first phase of investment in a historic campus where several buildings are between 70 and 115 years old. The improvements are intended to reduce longstanding operational risk, address critical safety and accessibility concerns and create space for thoughtful, community informed planning for the future.
“Children deserve care in environments that support healing, safety and stability,” said CSI’s President and Chief Executive Officer Jaymes Sime. “These initial improvements allow us to responsibly care for the campus today while preparing for the needs of children and families in the years ahead.”
Following the merger of Children’s Square in the fall of 2025, CSI reviewed prior facility assessments and completed additional engineering and environmental evaluations across the campus. That work confirmed several longstanding concerns, including significant deferred maintenance, water intrusion, environmental concerns and accessibility
challenges that could not be reasonably resolved through routine repairs alone.
As part of this process, CSI evaluated renovation options and alternative uses for affected buildings, including the Lemen Visitor Center, which contains space that once served as a chapel and in more recent decades has been used largely for conference rooms and office space.
After careful consideration, those alternatives were determined not feasible due to the extent of structural and moisture related issues, particularly in the basement, and the long-term cost and risk associated with continued use.
“These buildings carry tremendous meaning for our community and for my family,” said Bruce Lemen, a lifelong supporter of Children’s Square. “I grew up on this campus, and my family has been connected to Children’s Square since its founding in the 1880s. That history matters deeply. I have been closely involved in these conversations and I believe CSI has approached this work with respect, care and an unwavering commitment to children and families.”
CSI leadership emphasized its commitment to honoring the legacy of Children’s Square. The organization plans to carefully preserve and respectfully repurpose meaningful architectural elements from the Lemen Visitor Center, including the stained glass and cupola, so they remain part of the campus story in a future context.
As part of this initial phase of work, CSI is also excited to share plans for a reimagined Lemen Visitor Center. The updated facility will become home to a small outpatient behavioral health practice, expanding access to needed services for children and
families in Council Bluffs and throughout Southwest Iowa. The practice is expected to begin serving the community in 2027.
“This is a meaningful investment in both place and people,” said CSI’s Vice President of Behavioral Health Lora Sladovnik. “It allows us to bring additional behavioral health services to the community while using the campus in ways that align with current needs.”
These improvements represent Phase One of CSI’s capital strategy for its Children’s Square campus. This work creates stability today while allowing time and space for broader strategic campus planning and continued assessment of community need.
Construction activity is expected to become visible this summer. CSI will continue to communicate openly with neighbors, partners, donors and the broader community as work progresses.
“Our focus remains on children and families,” Sime said. “These are careful, necessary steps to ensure Children’s Square campus, as part of Child Saving Institute, remains a place of hope for generations to come. We look forward to working with the community to continue to provide the highest quality of care—now and in the future.”
Inside the Spellman experience
EMPOWERING MOTHERS, ENRICHING CHILDREN
Every mother wants the same thing for her child: to be safe, to be seen and to belong especially when she’s taking brave steps toward a better future.
Alayshia drops her three-year old daughter off at the Spellman Child Development Center to receive enriching, quality education and immersive activities—all at no cost to her. This is a dream come true for the young mom studying nursing at College of Saint Mary (CSM) and it’s made possible through the Mothers Living and Learning (MLL) program.
When she became an 18-year-old single mom, Alayshia knew she would face challenges to give herself and her little girl the life they deserve. She obtained her CNA and phlebotomy licenses and started a career in healthcare. But she said she wanted more. That’s when a mentor introduced her to the MLL program at CSM.
“It almost sounded too good to be true,”
Alayshia said.
After the application and interview process, Alayshia was accepted into the program. She moved herself and her daughter into the CSM dorms, excited to start college with free childcare and a supportive community of moms by her side. Her daughter, who had never left her side before, quickly felt at home at Spellman—a testament to the center’s warm and welcoming environment.
“She is a social butterfly, and
In the photo: Alayshia and her daughter
Those small moments of being greeted by name, teachers recognizing her daughter’s personality and staff understanding what helps her feel safe made a lasting impression. That’s how Alayshia knew her and her child belonged there.
The Spellman Child Development Center, operated by Child Saving Institute, is more than a place for children to spend their day. It’s a space intentionally designed to nurture development while empowering parents —meeting families where they are and walking alongside them as partners.
Alayshia said she appreciates how involved and connected families are kept in their child’s learning at Spellman.
“I really love how everyone at Spellman really cares about the kids’ development,” Alayshia said. “I get a weekly newsletter and the kids are really learning there.”
With her daughter thriving in a supportive environment, Alayshia has been able to fully step into her own potential. In addition to her coursework, she’s an active student leader, serving as a school senator and participating in multiple campus organizations. There’s peace of mind in knowing her daughter isn’t just cared for— but encouraged.
“I see her excited to learn how to read,” Alayshia said. “Everybody who speaks with her can’t believe she’s three because she’s so well spoken.”
For Alayshia, Spellman is a foundation for her daughter’s future and a source of reassurance as she pursues her own dreams. They have found a place where they are genuinely known. A place where a young mother’s goals are supported and a little girl’s curiosity is nurtured—side by side.
By walking alongside families like Alayshia’s, CSI serves as a trusted launchpad— removing barriers, opening doors and creating opportunities for both children and parents to thrive. Alayshia continues her education with confidence, knowing her daughter is growing in a nurturing, supportive environment designed to help her succeed.
For families seeking more than childcare—for those looking for partnership, possibility and a place to belong—the Spellman Child Development Center is more than a program. It’s a community where families are supported, empowered and encouraged to imagine what’s next.
From uncertain to
UNSTOPPABLE
Aftera four-month stay in Child Saving Institute’s (CSI) Emergency Youth Shelter, Josh (name changed for privacy) found himself crossing a milestone he once thought was out of reach: graduating from high school and preparing for college. For Josh, the shelter wasn’t just a temporary stop—it was a turning point. The shelter provided a safe space to navigate complex emotions and confront and overcome issues from his past.
For over 130 years, CSI has been dedicated to supporting children, youth and families through moments of transition, uncertainty and growth. The Emergency Youth Shelter provides a safe and stabilizing environment for young people experiencing crisis, family conflict or court-ordered placement. Rather than serving as a last resort, the shelter functions as a bridge—offering structure, encouragement and compassionate guidance at a time when youth need it most. CSI is dedicated to empowering every young
person and family who walks through its doors to feel safe, supported and capable of building a brighter future.
“The kid that I was a year ago, he was messing up,” Josh said. “He was skipping school and everything. God really gave me another chance to do good.”
At CSI, Josh found more than a bed and temporary stability. He found people who believed in him when he struggled to believe in himself.
“I had doubts that I wasn’t going to finish high school. I had a lot of people in my life who doubted me and who said I’m not going to be successful,” Josh said. “If it wasn’t for CSI, I don’t know if I would’ve finished high school.”
Josh said that extended time meant everything. It allowed him to continue building meaningful relationships with peers who looked up to him and with staff who showed him consistent care.
“We’re kind of like one big family here,” he said. “I made so many connections through the other youth here. I’m kind of like the big brother; everybody comes to me for advice. I feel like I’m a leader here.”
“If it wasn’t for CSI, I don’t know if I would’ve finished high school.”
Today, Josh is the first in his family to attend college. This is a milestone that fills the shelter staff with immense pride.
“It’s a proud moment,” Director of Residential Programming Carolina Valencia said. “He’s a great kid. We’re really proud of him, that’s all we can say.”
Valencia walked alongside Josh throughout his entire journey at CSI. She even advocated in court to extend his stay, which ensured he had the stability and support he needed during this pivotal moment in his life. Without that extension, Josh would’ve experienced multiple moves over a few months, right as he was preparing to start college.
“There was no reason for him to be moved,” Valencia said. “He was following our programming, and we provided him with more skills for independent living. He didn’t need to go through another transition.”
The shelter staff recognize Josh as a leader, too. They watched him shine on graduation day.
“He came out of his room in his cap and gown,” Valencia said, “and the boys lined up to high-five him. We hope it motivates the other youth and lets them know we’re here for them.”
Josh’s story is a reminder that youth shelters are not last resorts; they are places of hope, guidance and transformation. They are communities where young people discover their potential and where moments of encouragement can ripple outward in powerful ways.
As Josh reflects on how far he’s come and looks ahead to his future, Josh wants other young people at the shelter to know that “anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
The hope weaver ONE MAN’S SECOND CHANCE
Rodney Bennett is a passionate community member, working at the local nonprofit Live On Nebraska. As an organ transplant recipient, Rodney understands what it means to search for hope and what it feels like when help finally arrives. Though he was an adult when he received his second chance at life with a kidney transplant, it parallels an early turning point in his life, when he was a kid living in Child Saving Institute’s (CSI) Emergency Youth Shelter.
At nine years old, Rodney found himself removed from his home and separated from his siblings. His first foster home placements were unsafe and unstable, leaving him uncertain about where he belonged and who he could trust.
“Once I got to CSI, it was much more laid back than what my foster home experiences were like,” Rodney said. “I felt much safer and I wasn’t afraid to talk to the adults. They were kind to us.”
The safety Rodney felt at CSI allowed him to relax and begin building better relationships with both staff and his peers.
In that supportive environment, he could finally be a child again, free from constant fear. One CSI staff member played a significant role in helping him discover a passion which still brings him joy today: astronomy.
“She really nurtured that interest in astronomy for me. It was impactful because you don’t always have someone who is going to push you to embrace something new.”
“By embracing that, it distracted me from some of the minutia in my life at the time, and it was my escape.” Rodney said.
CSI also gave Rodney the opportunity to build friendships with youth in the shelter. During his stay, he met Alan and the two of them formed a great friendship.
“When I ended up at CSI, I really think that shaped how I connected with others,” Rodney said. “Before that, I had a really hard time connecting with other kids,”
After a six-month stay in CSI’s shelter, Rodney and Alan were both placed in the same foster home, providing a sense of continuity during an otherwise uncertain moment. As time went on, Alan was adopted by another family. After three years of receiving support in a safe, stable foster home, Rodney got the news that so many foster children long to hear: he could be with his family.
“I was really happy to be reunited with my siblings,” Rodney said. “To finally be with my sisters again and my brother, I was just elated. I was happy to be with my mom again and see the growth she had during that time.”
As Rodney grew up, he carried with him the lessons and stability CSI had provided.
“The biggest impact CSI had on me is just trying to be that advocate for people who can’t advocate for themselves,” Rodney said. “Because if there wasn’t someone who advocated for me, I wouldn’t have been placed in CSI and I probably would have stayed in a bad foster home situation.”
Rodney had to find strength early in life. But his challenges wouldn’t end there. Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, Rodney went into kidney failure and needed a transplant in order to survive.
“There were moments where I didn’t know where I was going to get some hope from. I didn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel,” Rodney said. “But something that has helped me redefine hope is that considering everything that I’ve gone through, I could have gone a completely different path in life ... What really brought hope back into my life was the transplant itself.”
The transplant instilled a new appreciation for life and fostered his ambition. Rodney created SunFlare Brands Company (a nod to his astronomy interest, which took root at CSI), a candle business where he developed the Hope Weaver candle as a tool of support for Live On Nebraska. He says it’s vital to him that he uses his second chance to make a difference and turn
adversity into something positive.
“My ambition definitely comes from a lot of those hardships in my childhood and with my transplant,” Rodney said. “I know I’ve had challenges, but I can turn those challenges into strengths.”
While receiving a transplant redefined his life, Rodney still credits CSI as an influential force in shaping his outlook on life. He hopes the youth currently in the shelter can recognize their own worth, even during difficult moments.
“No kid should feel like they’re the problem,” Rodney said. “Life is a quest, and you’re at the start of that quest. It’s going to have bad moments and it’s going to have some really ugly moments that you can’t avoid. You just have to face them. You have to work through them. You have to use the resources that are provided to you.”
Rodney understands how overwhelming it can feel to navigate life in a shelter. He acknowledges that carrying uncertainty and expectations at a young age is difficult, but he believes hope starts with perseverance.
“Don’t give up on yourself. Giving up on yourself can look like a few different things,” Rodney said. “It could look like not using the resources that are available to you to help you. It could look like completely giving up and caving right into the streets. Uncertainty is scary, but uncertainty is okay. It’s okay not to know everything. The biggest thing really is don’t give up on yourself.”
The safety and stability Rodney experienced at the CSI shelter laid the foundation for a life defined by resilience, renewal and the power of community and compassion.
“I love what CSI does for the community and for these kids and the mission,” Rodney said. “I think as I’ve grown older and I’ve had the second opportunity with my transplant, it’s forced me to really look at the things that bring value, not just to my life but to those around me.”
Where
HOPE Blooms
“I would be lost without the support of Child Saving Institute. Thank you!”
—Jarren
“As a caring father my honest opinion of Child Saving Institute has been nothing but the best ... They are setting great standards.”
—Luis, ECE parent
“They helped heal us. Never once did I ever feel judged. They never made me feel ashamed.”
—Family Empowerment Client
“At CSI, everyone has been amazing through our mental health and medication journey! Grateful for our team at CSI.”
—Liz, Mental Health Services Client
Your story can inspire someone else’s next step.
Tell the world!
GROW HOPE.
BUILD FUTURES. JOIN CSI.
CSI is a place where dedicated professionals come together to build strong foundations for children and families. Serving hundreds across Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, our organization thrives because of committed team members, leaders and support staff who bring both expertise and heart to their work.
At CSI, you’ll be part of a well-established organization that values collaboration, growth and meaningful impact. Together, our team strengthens programs, supports families and creates hope that touches hundreds of lives each year.
Here, your work matters. It strengthens families and uplifts children, creating a lasting impact. You’ll be surrounded by people who lead with heart, support one another and are united by a shared mission to champion what’s best for each child and family.
If you’re passionate about helping people thrive and looking to grow your career within a mission-driven organization, we invite you to explore opportunities and join the team at CSI.
New this year:
SUMMER CAMP at CSI
This summer marks an exciting new chapter at Child Saving Institute with the launch of our Summer Camp program for school - aged children. As families shared the growing need for dependable, engaging childcare when school is out, we listened—and responded.
Our 11-week Summer Camp, hosted at CSI’s A.W. Clark Child Development Center, is designed for children ages five to ten, offering
consistent, all‑day care that supports working families while giving kids a summer full of discovery and connection. Campers are grouped as Bobcat (ages five to seven) and Bison (ages eight to ten) to ensure activities are age- appropriate and engaging.
Each week introduces a new theme brought to life through hands- on projects, on-site enrichment experiences, special visitors and weekly off-site field trips. The program balances fun with structure, creating a space where kids can build friendships, confidence and curiosity.
To further support families, an optional back‑to‑school care week (Aug. 10 to 14) is available for those needing coverage before the school year begins.
We’re proud to expand our continuum of care and meet families where they are— this summer and beyond.
Early Childhood Education: What Sets Us Apart
At A.W. Clark Child Development Center and Spellman Child Development Center, we’re proud to offer more than traditional childcare —we provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning through Teaching Strategies’ Creative Curriculum.
This research-based curriculum is thoughtfully designed to support the whole child at every stage of development. From infants and toddlers to preschool and pre- K, each age group follows a curriculum tailored specifically to their developmental needs, ensuring children are supported exactly where they are.
The Creative Curriculum emphasizes hands- on, play-based learning that builds confidence, creativity and critical thinking. Through engaging projects and daily exploration, children strengthen social - emotional skills while also developing early literacy, math, language and problem -solving abilities. Learning feels natural—because play is at the heart of it.
Our teachers are equipped with intentional tools and guidance that allow them to individualize learning for every child, while staying aligned with state early learning standards and Head Start guidelines. Families stay connected through meaningful communication that brings classroom learning home.
By investing in high‑quality curriculum and skilled educators, our childcare centers create safe, nurturing spaces where children not only learn, but thrive.
OUR IMPACT IN NUMBER
In 2025 CSI supported children and families
4,802
CSI therapists served
97% of children in CSI’s Early Childhood Education met or exceeded widely held benchmarks
1,100 children, supporting meaningful progress in their mental health of families served had a household income of less than $25,000
47.6%
Our Impact in Numbers
99%
of children in foster/kinship care remained safe
of 80 93%
increase in mental health clients served over the prior year of short term mental health needs addressed
foster families had no substantiated CPS reports of clients reported improved mental health
children and teens served in 2025 through foster care or kinship placements at CSI
more children served in ECE due to expanded classrooms and services
of youth attended school while in shelter (a 6% increase from the previous year)
4545 Dodge St | Omaha, NE 68132
402.553.6000 | childsaving.org
csiomaha childsavinginstitute
Upcoming Events
Don’t miss a moment of the fun and philanthropic opportunities we have planned! Visit childsaving.org for more information about these events and ways to get involved.
CULINARY REMIX: MUSIC, MOMENTS, MISSION — REIMAGINED
August 21, 2026 | 6 p.m.
Mid America Center | 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs
This event brings together food, live music and meaningful recognition to celebrate community champions while raising vital support for children and families served on the Children’s Square campus.
PURSEONALITIES
October 02, 2026 | 10:30 a.m.
Embassy Suites La Vista Hotel & Conference Center 12520 Westport Pkwy
PurseOnalities brings together fashion and purpose. The event features a legendary silent auction with designer handbags and luxurious packages. “The Glass Castle” Author Jeannette Walls will speak at this year’s event.
SUBSTITUTE SANTA DONATION DRIVE
December 8–10, 2026 (Omaha)
December 1, 2026 (Council Bluffs)
Child Saving Institute, 4545 Dodge St | Omaha, NE 68132
Children’s Square Campus, 520 N 7th St | Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Help CSI provide holiday joy to hundreds of local children and teens. Donations to Substitute Santa In-Kind Donation Drive serve foster children, youth living in the emergency shelter and families seeking services at CSI.
CABARET
April 16, 2027 | 6 p.m.
CHI Health Center | 455 N 10th St | 6pm
Save the date for Cabaret 2027! Join us for a night of laughter, for good! Visit childsaving.org/cabaret to learn more as the event approaches.