Opportunities for Low-Income Students

Gates Scholarship — Full Cost of Attendance (Underrepresented Minority Students)

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation / UNCF

The Gates Scholarship (formerly Gates Millennium Scholars) provides funding for the full cost of college attendance — tuition, fees, room, board, books, transportation, and personal expenses — to outstanding minority students with significant financial need. The scholarship covers up to four years of undergraduate study and can be extended into graduate school for students pursuing specific fields. Approximately 300 scholarships are awarded annually from a pool of thousands of applicants. To be eligible, students must be American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/African American, Hispanic American, or Asian Pacific Islander American; be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; have a GPA of 3.3 or higher; and be Pell Grant-eligible (demonstrated financial need). The Gates Scholarship is among the most generous scholarships in existence — recipients can attend virtually any accredited college with their costs fully covered. The application opens in September with a mid-October deadline. Gates Scholars also receive mentoring, networking, and leadership development support. Omaha and Council Bluffs students from these communities are encouraged to apply.

October 15, 2026

Free ResourceNebraska Statewide

Horatio Alger National Scholarship — Up to $25,000 (Adversity + Financial Need)

Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans

The Horatio Alger National Scholarship is a separate and distinct award from the Horatio Alger Nebraska/Western Iowa state scholarship (which is co-administered by the Aksarben Foundation and is already listed in this database for Nebraska and Council Bluffs students). The National scholarship awards up to $25,000 to high school seniors from all 50 states who have demonstrated strength of character in overcoming adversity and who have critical financial need. Approximately 106 scholarships are awarded nationally per year. The Horatio Alger Association was founded to honor the American ideal that adversity and hard circumstances do not determine a person's future — the scholarship specifically seeks students who have persevered through difficult family situations, poverty, instability, or hardship. Unlike purely merit-based scholarships, Horatio Alger national emphasizes the student's personal story of resilience. Financial need is a hard requirement — family income typically under $55,000. The application opens in April with an October 25 deadline. Omaha and Council Bluffs students who have overcome significant life challenges are encouraged to apply.

October 25, 2026

NSF INCLUDES Initiative — Expanding Access to STEM for Underrepresented Communities

U.S. National Science Foundation

This NSF initiative funds organizations and institutions working to increase participation of underrepresented groups — including women, people with disabilities, and racial minorities — in STEM education and careers. Grants support collaborative projects that create systemic change in how STEM opportunities are accessed across communities. Local nonprofits, schools, and universities in Omaha and Council Bluffs can apply for funding to develop inclusive STEM programs. This is an institutional grant, not a direct award to individual students.

October 27, 2026

Free ResourceOmaha, NE (CHI Health Center)Official Source

Omaha Area College Fair — Free Annual Event with 100+ Colleges (Fall, CHI Health Center)

NACAC / Nebraska Association for College Admission Counseling (NebACRAO)

The Omaha Area College Fair is an annual fall event — typically held at CHI Health Center Omaha (formerly CenturyLink Center) — where more than 100 colleges and universities set up tables for students and families to explore. Admission representatives from Nebraska and regional colleges (UNO, UNL, Creighton, College of Saint Mary, Nebraska Wesleyan, Bellevue University), national universities, HBCUs, and out-of-state institutions are all represented. The event is FREE to attend for students and families. Students can collect materials, ask questions directly of admissions staff, and begin building their college list. The Omaha College Fair is organized in partnership with NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) and regional admission counseling organizations. There is typically also a Council Bluffs/Southwest Iowa area fair or additional metro events scheduled in the same season. The fall fair is especially valuable for juniors (who are beginning to build their college list) and seniors (who are in the thick of applications). Check nacacnet.org/college-fairs or your school counselor for the current year's date and registration.

October 31, 2026

Free ResourceNebraska (statewide — Omaha metro schools participate)Official Source

Nebraska College Application Week (NCAW) — Free College Applications + FAFSA Help for Seniors

EducationQuest Foundation / Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education

Nebraska College Application Week (NCAW) is an annual event held each October at high schools across Nebraska during which high school seniors can apply to participating Nebraska colleges and universities for FREE — application fees are waived by participating institutions. NCAW is organized by EducationQuest Foundation in partnership with the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education (CCPE). Participating high schools host NCAW events during school hours, where students sit down with counselors, complete college applications, and often begin or complete their FAFSA. NCAW removes one of the most concrete barriers to college application — the $25–$75 application fee — for students who might not apply otherwise. Participating Nebraska institutions include UNL, UNO, UNK, Nebraska Wesleyan, Creighton, Metropolitan Community College, and many others. Omaha Public Schools high schools, Millard schools, and schools in the surrounding metro area participate each year. Students who might not have applied to college due to cost, uncertainty, or inertia can use NCAW to get an application submitted in a single school day, at no cost. NCAW is typically held during the second or third week of October. Contact your school counselor to find out if your school is participating.

October 31, 2026

Coca-Cola Scholars Program — $20,000 (National Leadership Scholarship)

Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most competitive and prestigious national scholarships, awarding $20,000 one-time scholarships to approximately 150 high school seniors each year. Unlike purely grade-focused scholarships, Coca-Cola Scholars emphasizes leadership, character, and community impact — the foundation specifically looks for students who have made a meaningful difference in their schools, communities, or organizations. There is no minimum GPA requirement, though accepted students are typically very high-achieving. DACA recipients are explicitly eligible (as are U.S. citizens and permanent residents). The scholarship can be used at any accredited U.S. college or university. Becoming a Coca-Cola Scholar also brings access to the broader scholar alumni network and recognition that carries significant weight in job and graduate school applications. About 4,000 candidates advance to the semifinalist stage from roughly 100,000+ applicants — the selection process is multi-stage. The application opens in August with an October deadline. Omaha and Council Bluffs students are eligible.

October 31, 2026

Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship — Up to $55,000/Year (High-Achieving, Need-Based)

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

The Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program is one of the largest and most generous private scholarships in the United States — up to $55,000 per year for up to four years of undergraduate study ($220,000 total maximum). This is not a lottery — it is an intensely competitive merit and need-based program. Approximately 60 scholarships are awarded nationally each year from a pool of roughly 4,000 applicants. The foundation specifically seeks students who have exhibited excellence in school while overcoming significant financial barriers. Recipients are selected not just for grades and test scores, but for intellectual curiosity, leadership, persistence, and service to others. Eligible students typically come from families with household incomes under $95,000 per year (smaller family sizes face a lower threshold). The award covers college expenses at any accredited U.S. institution — public or private. Omaha and Council Bluffs students have applied and won JKC scholarships. If you are a strong student from a lower-income family, this is one of the most impactful applications you can submit. The scholarship also provides mentoring, college counseling, and community access. Apply at jkcf.org.

November 1, 2026

Ron Brown Scholar Program — $40,000 (African American High School Seniors)

Ron Brown Scholar Program

The Ron Brown Scholar Program awards $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 per year for four years) to African American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, community service, and financial need. Approximately 10–20 scholarships are awarded annually from a pool of highly competitive applicants. The program is named for the late U.S. Secretary of Commerce Ron Brown, who died in a plane crash in 1996 while on a trade mission. Scholars receive not just financial support but access to the Ron Brown Scholar community, mentoring, and career development resources. The program values community engagement and leadership as much as GPA and test scores — students who have made a meaningful impact in their communities, schools, or organizations are competitive applicants. The scholarship is renewable for four years contingent on academic performance and continued community engagement. Applications open in August with a November deadline. Omaha and Council Bluffs African American students who meet the academic and service profile are strongly encouraged to apply.

November 1, 2026

College Access ProgramNebraska Statewide

Ron Brown Scholar Program — $40,000 (African American High School Seniors)

Ron Brown Scholar Program

November 1, 2026

Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP)

U.S. National Science Foundation

This NSF program provides funding to colleges and universities to increase the number of underrepresented minority students who earn degrees in STEM fields. Alliances of institutions work together to support Black, Hispanic, Native American, and other underrepresented students through academic support, research experiences, and mentorship. Universities in Nebraska and Iowa can apply to join or form alliances under this program. Students benefit indirectly through their institution's participation.

November 20, 2026

Dell Scholars Program — $20,000 + Laptop (College Readiness Program Participants)

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation

The Dell Scholars Program awards $20,000 scholarships (distributed over six years, $2,000 per semester for up to ten semesters) plus a laptop to students who have participated in approved college readiness programs. This is a key eligibility requirement — applicants must have been enrolled in an approved college readiness or college access program (such as College Possible, AVID, Bottom Line, College Advising Corps, Gear Up, or one of 60+ other approved programs). Dell Scholars also receive technology support, emergency financial assistance, and a peer community. The program is specifically designed for students from low-income backgrounds who have demonstrated the drive to succeed despite significant obstacles. IMPORTANT for Omaha/CB students: College Possible operates in Omaha (collegepossible.org/omaha) and is an approved Dell partner program — Omaha high school students enrolled in College Possible are directly eligible to apply for Dell Scholars. Students in AVID programs at Omaha Public Schools or Council Bluffs schools are also eligible. Applicants must be Pell Grant-eligible, have a 2.4+ GPA, and plan to enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. institution. The deadline is typically December 1 of the senior year.

December 1, 2026

Scholastic Art & Writing Awards — Up to $10,000 (Grades 7–12)

Alliance for Young Artists & Writers

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation's largest and most prestigious recognition program for creative students in grades 7–12. Since 1923, Scholastic has identified teen artists and writers of exceptional talent — past award recipients include Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Joyce Carol Oates, Truman Capote, and more. Students may submit work in visual arts (painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, film, animation, and more) or writing (poetry, short story, novel, personal essay, humor, journalism, and more). Work is judged by industry professionals. Gold Medal winners at the national level receive scholarships up to $10,000. Winning work is exhibited in New York City. Regional competitions (administered through schools or directly) happen in fall/winter — winning regional work advances to national consideration. Nebraska and Iowa students participate through regional affiliates. There is a small submission fee (often $5–$10 per submission), but fee waivers are available for students with financial need. If you are a creative student in middle or high school, the Scholastic Awards are the most important national recognition you can pursue — they carry significant weight in college admissions and creative program applications.

January 15, 2027

APIASF Scholarship — Up to $20,000 (Asian Pacific Islander American Students)

Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF)

The Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF) provides scholarships of $2,500 to $20,000 to Asian Pacific Islander American (APIA) students who have financial need and strong academic records. APIASF administers a general scholarship as well as scholarship funds partnered with major corporations including Walmart, Wells Fargo, and others. Students submit one application to be considered for multiple APIASF scholarship programs simultaneously. The scholarship is open to U.S. citizens, nationals, permanent residents, and citizens of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands. Eligible students must have a GPA of 2.7 or higher and demonstrate financial need. APIASF serves students from diverse Asian Pacific communities including South Asian, Southeast Asian, East Asian, and Pacific Islander backgrounds. The Omaha metro has a growing APIA community — students of Filipino, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, South Asian, and Pacific Islander backgrounds are among those commonly served. Applications open in October with a January deadline. Becoming an APIASF Scholar also provides access to leadership development programs and a national APIA scholar network.

January 31, 2027

APIASF Scholarship — Up to $20,000 (Asian Pacific Islander American Students)

Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF)

January 31, 2027

Institutional ScholarshipNationwide (Institutions in NE/IA may apply)

Jack Kent Cooke Young Scholars Program — 7th Grade High-Achievers with Financial Need

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program is a multi-year support program — distinct from the JKC College Scholarship (which is for high school seniors and is separately listed in this database) — designed for high-achieving 7th graders from families with significant financial need. Selected Young Scholars receive up to $2,500 per year in educational funding during middle and high school, plus access to JKC's comprehensive college preparation support services: college counseling, test preparation resources, summer enrichment funding, extracurricular support, and mentoring. The program runs from 8th grade through 12th grade. Young Scholars also receive priority consideration for the JKC College Scholarship (up to $55,000/year for college). Approximately 60–80 Young Scholars are selected nationally per year. This is extremely competitive — but for a 7th grader in Omaha or Council Bluffs who has strong grades and significant financial need, applying is one of the most valuable things a parent or student can do. The application is free and opens in the fall. This is for students who are currently in 7th grade — not high school seniors.

February 28, 2027

NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM)

U.S. National Science Foundation

The NSF S-STEM program funds colleges and universities to offer scholarships to academically talented students with demonstrated financial need who are pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Participating institutions use the funding to support student success through scholarships combined with academic and career development activities. Students do not apply directly to NSF but instead through a participating college or university's S-STEM program. Check with your Nebraska or Iowa institution to see if they have an active S-STEM award.

March 2, 2027

Summer ProgramNebraska Statewide

NIH Biomedical Undergraduate Research Training (BURT) Program (T34)

National Institutes of Health – National Institute of General Medical Sciences

This grant funds universities to create structured research training programs for undergraduate students in the biomedical sciences, with a focus on students from underrepresented backgrounds. Participating students gain hands-on laboratory research experience, mentorship, and preparation for graduate school or health careers. Students apply to their university's T34 program rather than directly to NIH. Universities in Omaha with strong biomedical programs may be eligible to apply for or already hold this type of award.

September 25, 2028

Community Events & ClubsCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

IWCC Automotive Technology — AAS Degree (78 Credits, All 8 ASE Certification Areas)

Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western's Automotive Technology AAS degree is a comprehensive two-plus-year program covering all eight areas of ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification: engine repair, automatic transmissions/transaxles, manual drivetrains and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical and electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance. The curriculum runs 78 credits over four semesters and two summer sessions. Completing this program and passing ASE exams puts you on a path to ASE certification, which is the industry standard for automotive technician hiring and wage advancement. Auto technicians with full ASE certification in Omaha/Council Bluffs can earn $22–$45/hr, with master technicians at dealerships earning more. Iowa Western's program is a strong choice for Council Bluffs residents who want to stay on the Iowa side for their training. Iowa residents pay $214/credit — total tuition for the full 78-credit AAS is approximately $16,692, before financial aid. FAFSA and Iowa E2E may significantly reduce this cost for eligible Iowa residents.

Rolling / Open

Bemis Center Community Tracks — $1,000 Stipend for Local Musicians

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Community Tracks is Bemis Center's program for musicians and composers working in experimental sound and music who live within 80 miles of Omaha. Selected participants receive a $1,000 stipend plus free access to Bemis's rehearsal space, recording studio, audio equipment and instruments, and audio engineer staff. The goal is to support people who have music to make and need space and resources to make it. The 80-mile radius includes Lincoln, Bellevue, Papillion, Council Bluffs, and surrounding communities. No application fee.

Rolling / Open

EducationQuest FAFSA Completion Workshops

EducationQuest Foundation

Free in-person workshops across Omaha where students and families can complete the FAFSA with expert help. Available in both English and Spanish. Bring your tax documents and FSA ID — walk-ins welcome at most locations.

Rolling / Open

Kids Can Community Center — Summer Program

Kids Can Community Center

Free full-day summer program combining STEM, music, arts, reading, tutoring, and field trips. State-licensed, with meals included. Scholarships available so cost is never a barrier.

Rolling / Open

Operating Engineers Local 571 — Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship

International Union of Operating Engineers Local 571

If you have ever wanted to run heavy equipment — bulldozers, cranes, excavators, scrapers, graders — and get paid well to do it, Operating Engineers Local 571 is the program that will train you. Local 571 runs a four-year DOL-registered apprenticeship covering all areas of construction equipment operation. You earn wages from day one while gaining on-the-job experience and related classroom instruction. Operating engineers are among the highest-paid construction workers on any job site. By the time you reach journeyman status, you are operating equipment that costs more than most houses and completing work that makes major construction projects possible. There are no back-office alternatives for this trade — it requires skilled humans, and demand is not going away. To apply: show up in person at Local 571's training facility at 4660 S. 60th Avenue in Omaha, Monday through Friday, between 8am and 3pm. Bring a $25 non-refundable administrative fee — money order only, no cash, no personal checks. Applications are processed on an ongoing basis. Training schedule is posted on Local 571's Facebook pages. Call 402-733-1600 or email gnull@iuoe571.org for current information.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Public Library — Free Career & Job Search Resources

Omaha Public Library

Every OPL library card includes free access to LinkedIn Learning (thousands of online courses), LearningExpress career prep tools, DigitalLearn for computer and internet basics, Glassdoor company research, NEworks resume builder, and in-branch one-on-one technology help. No subscription fees — just a free library card.

Rolling / Open

St. Juan Diego Community Center — Immigration Legal Services & Food Pantry

Catholic Charities of Omaha

South Omaha anchor serving the immigrant community for over 40 years, located at 5211 South 31st Street. Services include immigration legal support, a food pantry providing essential groceries to low-income families, and microbusiness and asset development assistance for aspiring entrepreneurs. Part of Catholic Charities of Omaha's broader social services network. Described as "an anchor and gateway to all, serving and helping immigrants on a path to success."

Rolling / Open

IowaWORKS Council Bluffs — Career & Job Training Services

Iowa Workforce Development

The IowaWORKS office in Council Bluffs is a free American Job Center offering one-on-one career counseling, virtual resume-building workshops, labor market information, connections to paid training programs, and youth workforce services. Walk-ins welcome Monday–Friday.

Rolling / Open

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands — Council Bluffs & Carter Lake

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands

Free teen membership at two Iowa-side clubs — Council Bluffs (815 N 16th St) and Carter Lake (4101 N 17th St). Programs include CareerLaunch career exploration (ages 13–18), Keystone Club leadership (ages 14–18), Diplomas 2 Degrees college readiness, Money Matters financial literacy, SMART Girls health program, and post-secondary scholarships for members.

Rolling / Open

Council Bluffs Public Library — Teen Volunteer Program

Council Bluffs Public Library

Free teen volunteer program at the Council Bluffs Public Library (400 Willow Ave). Volunteers help run the Friends Bookstore, shelve books, deliver books to homebound patrons, and assist with programs and events. The library also provides free access to LinkedIn Learning, resume review via Brainfuse, and practice tests through Learning Express.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceCouncil BluffsCommunity Org

Creighton University TRIO Upward Bound Math & Science — Free STEM College Prep

Creighton University TRIO Upward Bound Programs

Creighton University's TRIO Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) program is a federally funded, completely free STEM-focused college preparation program for first-generation and low-income Omaha-area high school students interested in math, science, and STEM careers. UBMS provides the same core services as Classic Upward Bound — tutoring, advising, campus visits, SAT/ACT prep, mentoring — with additional emphasis on math and science skill-building and exposure to STEM careers. The six-week summer residential academy includes STEM-specific coursework taught by Creighton faculty. If you are a first-gen or low-income student who is interested in medicine, engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, or any STEM field — Creighton's UBMS program is a powerful, free pathway. Creighton sponsors five TRIO programs in total, serving over 2,100 students from the Omaha metro area — one of the largest TRIO footprints in Nebraska.

Rolling / Open

Iowa Legal Aid — Council Bluffs Office

Iowa Legal Aid

Free civil legal help for low-income Iowans in Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County. Iowa Legal Aid handles housing, family law, consumer rights, employment, government benefits, and individual rights cases. Services include legal advice, limited assistance, and full representation for qualifying clients.

Rolling / Open

Karen Society of Nebraska — Refugee Community Support & Navigation

Karen Society of Nebraska

Nebraska's primary organization supporting the Karen community — refugees and immigrants from Burma (Myanmar) who now number more than 5,000 in Omaha and 8,000 statewide, making Nebraska home to the largest Karen population in the United States. Programs include social services navigation (reading mail, filling out government forms, addressing immigration questions), health promotion with translation services, home visits, and wellness sessions, an After-School Program for academic support of refugee students, and a Karen Language Literacy Program. Offices in Omaha and Lincoln.

Rolling / Open

211 Nebraska — Free 24/7 Community Resource Helpline

United Way of the Midlands

Free 24/7 helpline connecting anyone in Nebraska or Iowa to health and human services. Dial 2-1-1, text your ZIP code to 898-211, or search at ne211.org to find: food assistance, emergency shelter, healthcare, mental health services, childcare, employment programs, substance abuse support, utility assistance, legal aid, and more. Community Resource Specialists are trained to connect callers to the right local programs. Also administers Save Our Seniors, Help Me Grow Nebraska, the Military and Family Helpline, and serves as the state's Aging and Disability Resource Center.

Rolling / Open

Siena Francis House — Emergency Shelter & Comprehensive Services

Siena Francis House

Nebraska's largest homeless shelter, serving over 3,150 individuals annually. Operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Provides 450 beds (350 for men, 100 for women) with daily meals, case management, and services designed to move people into stable housing. Programs include the Miracles addiction recovery program, permanent supportive housing (Siena Apartments and Cottages), street outreach connecting unsheltered individuals to the shelter, and Nebraska's first nationally certified Medical Respite Program (achieved certification in October 2025) — providing recuperation care for individuals released from the hospital who have no home to recover in.

Rolling / Open

Stephen Center — Emergency Shelter for All Family Configurations

Stephen Center

The only emergency shelter in Omaha that keeps all family configurations — including mixed-gender families — together without separation. Pettigrew Emergency Shelter provides 69 beds (32 for men, 32 for women, 5 family rooms). Case managers help residents develop individualized housing plans, while daily Life Skills classes cover anger management, finances, parenting, relationships, and job seeking. The HERO Addiction Recovery program serves co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Permanent Supportive Housing available for individuals with high barriers (mental health challenges, physical disabilities). No one turned away due to family structure.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceCouncil BluffsGov. Database

MICAH House — Emergency Family Shelter (Council Bluffs)

MICAH House

Emergency shelter for families and individuals experiencing homelessness in the bi-state metro — serving Iowa and Nebraska residents since 1986. Located in Council Bluffs at 1415 Avenue J. Provides 23 private family bedrooms accommodating families up to 10 individuals. Services include case management, daily meals, bedding and hygiene products, clothing (including professional attire), free laundry, over-the-counter medications, weekly health assessments, first aid, prenatal and childbirth support, breastfeeding resources, and adult education classes. Accepts residents from Pottawattamie, Harrison, and Mills counties (Iowa) and Douglas, Sarpy, Saunders, and Washington counties (Nebraska).

Rolling / Open

Iowa HHS — Apply for SNAP, FIP & Medicaid in Council Bluffs

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

Iowa's free online system for applying for food assistance (SNAP/FAP), cash assistance (Family Investment Program/FIP), and health coverage (Iowa Medicaid). Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County residents are Iowa residents and must apply through Iowa's system — NOT Nebraska's. Apply online at hhsservices.iowa.gov, by mail, by fax, or in person at the Pottawattamie County HHS office. Call 1-877-347-5678 to locate your nearest Iowa HHS office and get help applying. Iowa SNAP, FIP, and Medicaid programs have separate eligibility rules from Nebraska's programs.

Rolling / Open

Community Alliance — Mental Health & Substance Use Services

Community Alliance

Omaha's largest nonprofit integrated mental health and behavioral health organization, with over 200 professionals serving the metro area. Offers outpatient mental health and substance use counseling, medication management, integrated primary care, intensive outpatient programming (IOP) for co-occurring disorders, psychiatric residential rehabilitation, day rehabilitation, supported employment, homeless outreach, recovery support services, and assertive community treatment (ACT). Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance. Sliding fee scale for uninsured or underinsured clients — no one turned away based on inability to pay.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha

Completely KIDS — After-School & Summer Programs (Ages 4–14)

Completely KIDS

Enriching after-school and summer programs for children ages 4–14 at the Completely KIDS headquarters (25th and St. Mary's Avenue) plus 16 additional Omaha sites, including locations at Catholic Charities, Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army, and The Stephen Center. Programs include homework help, STEM and reading, Nature Explore and gardening, swimming lessons, healthy meals, weekend food bags, behavioral health services, and teen leadership and workforce development. Serves over 2,600 Omaha-area children annually, with a mission to break the cycle of poverty and help families overcome barriers to success.

Rolling / Open

Goodwill Omaha — Free Monthly Job Training Workshops

Goodwill Industries of Omaha

Free monthly job training workshops and career services at Goodwill Omaha headquarters (4805 N. 72nd Street). Regular monthly schedule: Computer Basics (2nd Friday, 10AM–12PM), Internet Basics (3rd Friday, 10AM–12PM), Financial Literacy & Money Management (4th Thursday, 2–4PM), and Email Basics (4th Friday, 10AM–12PM). Also offers resume building, interview skills coaching, and Microsoft Word proficiency. Employment specialists help match job seekers with appropriate positions. On-site hiring events and career fairs connect participants directly to employers — no registration required for hiring events. In January 2025, Goodwill Omaha partnered with the Adult Education Center to expand workforce development pathways.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA (multiple metro high schools)Official Source

Nebraska Methodist College TRIO Classic Upward Bound — Burke High School Students

Nebraska Methodist College TRIO Programs

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) hosts a federally funded TRIO Classic Upward Bound program specifically serving students at Omaha Burke High School. This completely free program helps first-generation college students and low-income students at Burke develop the academic skills and personal confidence to complete high school and enter college. NMC's Upward Bound provides tutoring, advising, mentoring, SAT/ACT preparation, college visit trips, and a summer enrichment component. This is a targeted, school-specific program — the federal grant requires that NMC serve students at Burke High School specifically. Burke students who are first-gen or low-income should apply to this program early — slots are limited by federal grant size and fill each year. NMC partners with Methodist Health System in Omaha, giving Upward Bound students unique access to healthcare career exploration alongside standard college prep services.

Rolling / Open

JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) — Free Leadership Program at Metro High Schools

U.S. Army / U.S. Navy / U.S. Air Force JROTC Programs

JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) is a free leadership development and college/career readiness program offered at dozens of high schools in the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro area through partnerships with the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. JROTC is NOT a military enlistment commitment — participation in JROTC does not obligate students to join the military. JROTC trains students in leadership, public speaking, physical fitness, teamwork, community service, and academic achievement. In Omaha, Army JROTC units operate at Omaha Central, Omaha North, Omaha South, Burke, Benson, Bryan, and Northwest high schools (among others). In Council Bluffs, Thomas Jefferson High School has an active Army JROTC program. Air Force JROTC (AFJROTC) and Navy JROTC units operate at additional metro schools. JROTC students are eligible for competitive JROTC scholarships: Army JROTC scholarships of up to $10,000/year for students who go on to ROTC in college; scholarship competitions within each service branch. Students can take JROTC for 1–4 years in high school. It counts as a PE credit in many districts. Parents and students interested in JROTC should contact their high school's JROTC instructor (SASI — Senior Army/Air Force/Navy Science Instructor).

Rolling / Open

Legal Aid of Nebraska — Free Civil Legal Help

Legal Aid of Nebraska

Free civil legal services for low-income Nebraskans in Douglas County and across all 93 counties statewide. Legal Aid handles housing, family law (divorce, custody, protection orders), debt, income and benefits, and immigration matters. Apply online or by phone — no walk-ins. The A2J Self-Help Center at 209 S. 19th St., Suite 200, Omaha provides computers and forms for self-represented individuals.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmahaCommunity Org

SWITA — Southwest Iowa Transit (Council Bluffs Bus Service)

Southwest Iowa Transit Agency (SWITA)

Public transit serving Council Bluffs and Southwest Iowa counties, operated by the Southwest Iowa Planning Council (SWIPCO). Provides fixed-route bus service within the Council Bluffs metro and regional service between Council Bluffs and Omaha for $3.50 one-way ($7 round trip). Student transportation available at $1.75 per child per ride. Employment-linked work routes connect workers to major employers including OSI in the metro area. Route maps and schedules available at swita.com and via the Metro Transit Yellow Route (ometro.com/routes/y). Serves Pottawattamie, Cass, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page, and Shelby counties.

Rolling / Open

Immigrant Legal Center — Free Immigration Legal Services

Immigrant Legal Center (ILC)

The Immigrant Legal Center (formerly Justice For Our Neighbors Nebraska) provides free, professional immigration legal services through licensed attorneys and DOJ-accredited representatives. Serves low-income immigrants in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, including a Council Bluffs, IA office. Services include weekly consultations and monthly legal clinics at partner locations across the metro.

Rolling / Open

Creighton University Dental Clinic — Affordable & Emergency Dental Care

Creighton University School of Dentistry

Reduced-cost comprehensive dental care provided by supervised dental students at 2109 Cuming Street, Omaha. Services include oral evaluation, restorative and preventive dentistry, dental implants, and dentures. All fees are 40–60% below private practice rates. Accepts Nebraska Medicaid (ACCESSNebraska). Regular clinic: call (402) 280-5990 for adult appointments or (402) 280-2863 for pediatric. After-hours emergency clinic operates Tuesday and Thursday evenings (5:30–8:30 PM) at the same address — fees 40–60% below private rate, and the clinic's stated policy is "We never turn away anyone in pain." Emergency after-hours appointments: (402) 280-5031.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopNebraskaOfficial Source

Financial Beginnings Nebraska — Financial Literacy Education

Financial Beginnings

Financial Beginnings is a national nonprofit that delivers free financial literacy education to students and adults through trained volunteers. In Nebraska, their curriculum is delivered in K-12 classrooms, higher education, and through partner nonprofits across the Omaha metro. Programs cover budgeting, saving, credit, banking, debt, and planning for the future. Participants pay nothing — programs are funded through financial institutions and grants. Volunteers can also apply to become certified financial literacy presenters through Financial Beginnings.

Rolling / Open

Civic Nebraska — Civic Leadership & Voter Engagement

Civic Nebraska

Civic Nebraska is a statewide nonprofit that strengthens civic participation through youth leadership, civic health programs, and voting rights initiatives. Programs include Nebraska's Kid Governor (statewide youth civic leadership program), voter registration and education outreach, and the annual State of Civic Life Conference. The 2026 State of Civic Life Conference is scheduled for May 19, 2026 in Lincoln. Civic Nebraska also publishes the Nebraska Civic Health Index and advocates for policies that expand civic participation and voting access.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA (Offutt-area military families)Official Source

MyCAA Scholarship — Up to $4,000 for Military Spouses Pursuing Education (Offutt/Metro)

Department of Defense — Military OneSource

The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Scholarship is a Department of Defense workforce development program providing up to $4,000 in education and training funding to eligible military spouses pursuing degrees, professional certifications, or occupational licenses. MyCAA is specifically for military spouses — not the service member. Eligibility: spouse of an active duty service member in pay grades E-1 through E-5, W-1 through W-2, or O-1 through O-2. The scholarship covers tuition at any accredited college, community college, university, or vocational training program — including MCC, UNO, IWCC, and other metro institutions. For Omaha and Council Bluffs families connected to Offutt Air Force Base (one of the largest employers in the metro area), MyCAA is one of the most underutilized education benefits available. Many military spouses are unaware this scholarship exists. MyCAA funds can be used for associate or bachelor's degree programs, professional certificates, and occupational licensing exams. Applications are submitted through MyCAA at mycaa.militaryonesource.mil. Contact Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647) for guidance on applying.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopCouncil BluffsOfficial Source

Council Bluffs Young Professionals (CBYP) — Foodie Friday

Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce

Council Bluffs Young Professionals (CBYP) is the young professionals' network of the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce, open to anyone ages 18–40 who wants to grow their career, build community, and connect with peers in Council Bluffs. CBYP's signature event is Foodie Friday — a free monthly networking lunch at a rotating local restaurant with no program, no pressure, and no entry fee. CBYP also hosts workshops, community gatherings, and career development events throughout the year.

Rolling / Open

Fred LeRoy Health and Wellness Center

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Established in 1998 by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, the Fred LeRoy Health and Wellness Center is the primary urban Indian health facility in Omaha, serving American Indians and others eligible for Indian Health Services. Located in South Omaha, the center provides medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, physical therapy, social services, substance abuse counseling, and youth services. The clinic team is trained in culturally sensitive, family-centered care and reflects the health needs and traditions of the Native communities it serves.

Rolling / Open

Omaha ForUs — LGBTQ+ Community Center

Omaha ForUs

Omaha ForUs is the dedicated LGBTQ+ community center for the Omaha metro, listed in the CenterLink national network of LGBTQ+ centers. The center provides safe space, community programs, and direct services for LGBTQ+ individuals of all identities. Programs include: Proud Horizons (peer support group for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–23, every other Saturday); a Mental Health Support Group (2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 6–7:30 PM, for adults navigating mental health and LGBTQ+ identity); the Pride Pantry (food assistance for food-insecure LGBTQ+ individuals); no-cost STI testing (partnership with Nebraska AIDS Project, Planned Parenthood, and Douglas County Health); on-site social work case management; monthly Glam Workshops (sewing, costume design, hair, makeup); and Florecer, a social group specifically for Latine and Chicane LGBTQ+ people in Omaha.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP) — HIV Services, PrEP & Support

Nebraska AIDS Project

Founded in 1984, the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP) leads Nebraska's response to HIV/AIDS through free testing, prevention, housing, case management, and advocacy. NAP provides free, confidential or anonymous HIV testing with same-day results for anyone age 13 and older; a free PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) program for those seeking daily HIV prevention medication; HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS) — NAP is the sole HOPWA provider in Nebraska; Ryan White Program services for people living with HIV; professional case management; mental health services and support groups; and bilingual (Spanish/English) HIV testing and education. NAP serves all 93 Nebraska counties.

Rolling / Open

KANEKO — Free Cultural Galleries & Interdisciplinary Public Programs

KANEKO

KANEKO occupies three refurbished historic warehouses in Omaha's Old Market, founded by sculptor Jun Kaneko and his wife Ree as open space for your mind. Free public galleries feature exhibitions that cut across art, science, philosophy, design, and ideas — not neatly categorized. Past programming has brought together visual artists and neuroscientists, composers and urban planners, choreographers and engineers. Current exhibitions include Jun Kaneko's collaborative drawings with three-year-old Ana Citrin and monumental ceramic works from the Kaneko collection. KANEKO resists the boundary between disciplines and invites anyone to think alongside it.

Rolling / Open

OneWorld Community Health Centers

Federally Qualified Health Center with multiple Omaha locations offering medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and support services on a sliding fee scale. OneWorld explicitly provides LGBTQ+ affirming care including gender-affirming hormone therapy, PrEP access, HIV and STI testing, and mental health services for LGBTQ+ patients. Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance. Specializes in serving uninsured and underinsured patients regardless of ability to pay. Includes health insurance enrollment assistance, interpreter services, and school-based health centers.

Rolling / Open

Charles Drew Health Center — North Omaha Community Health

Charles Drew Health Center

Comprehensive, Joint Commission-accredited community health center serving North Omaha since 1983. Offers primary care, dental, behavioral health, optometry, pharmacy, STI testing, HIV counseling, and chronic disease management. Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, and offers a sliding fee scale for uninsured patients. Committed to quality care regardless of ability to pay.

Rolling / Open

Bemis Center LOW END — Free Live Music for Sound Art & Experimental Music

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

LOW END is a free music venue inside Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts. Shows feature sound artists, composers, and experimental musicians from Omaha, across the country, and around the world — all free to attend. The programming ranges from field recording and electronic composition to experimental jazz, prepared piano, and genre-spanning performance. Confirmed 2026 shows: Mauricio López F (March 5), a Volumes performance by Phill Smith (March 28), and Riley Mulherkar (April 16). The room is small and the listening is genuine — not background music.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Astronomical Society — Monthly Meeting & Outreach

Omaha Astronomical Society

A community of people who love looking at the sky — and who want to share it. The Omaha Astronomical Society meets the first Friday of most months at UNO's Durham Science Center, open to any visitor at no charge. Monthly presentations cover topics across astronomy: planets, deep-sky objects, space missions, astrophotography, and more. Members bring their telescopes to outdoor star parties and are genuinely happy to let newcomers look through them. No telescope, no jargon, no prior knowledge required. OAS is a NASA Night Sky Network partner.

Rolling / Open

Mallory Kountze Planetarium — Monthly Public Shows

University of Nebraska Omaha

The Mallory Kountze Planetarium at UNO projects a full-dome night sky onto a curved ceiling for public shows throughout the year. Shows cover different topics — from introductory constellation tours to deep-space journeys — and run approximately 45 minutes. The planetarium is located in UNO's Durham Science Center and seats a small group per show, making it an intimate experience. Monthly schedules are released on the 15th of the prior month. Free parking available on the UNO campus. One of Omaha's most underused science gems.

Rolling / Open

Audubon Society of Omaha — Free Bird Walks & Monthly Programs

Audubon Society of Omaha

The Audubon Society of Omaha runs free monthly field trips — guided bird walks at nature areas within 50 miles of Omaha — open to anyone, any skill level, any age. Trips are free and no membership is required. Monthly indoor programs feature presentations on birds, ecology, and conservation by naturalists and scientists. February 2026 events include a presentation on Sandhill Cranes, an EZ-Does-It Birding walk at Towl Park, and a guided trip to DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge for migratory bird viewing. Binoculars are helpful but never required.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceMissouri ValleyOfficial Source

Heron Haven — Free Urban Wetland Sanctuary

Friends of Heron Haven

Heron Haven is a spring-fed wetland and wildlife sanctuary in northwest Omaha — one of the last oxbow wetlands of the Big Papillion Creek inside city limits. Admission is free, open every day from sunrise to sunset, with no registration or reservation needed. The Education Center hosts monthly Second Saturday Programs led by Master Naturalists covering wetland ecology, birds, conservation, and nature photography. An annual Wetlands Festival celebrates the sanctuary each year. Managed by the Friends of Heron Haven and the Papio-Missouri River NRD. One of Omaha's most peaceful and least-known free outdoor spaces.

Rolling / Open

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge — Migratory Bird Viewing & Interpretive Programs

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, 25 miles north of Omaha, is one of the best free wildlife viewing experiences in the Midwest. Each fall, half a million snow geese and tens of thousands of ducks and shorebirds funnel through on their way south — filling the sky in spiraling masses at dawn and dusk. Bald eagles gather by the dozens to feed. The refuge visitor center is open Tuesday through Saturday (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM) and features interpretive exhibits including artifacts from the steamboat Bertrand, which sank here in 1865. Ranger-led programs available for groups by advance arrangement.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Science Café — Free Monthly Science Talks at The Slowdown

University of Nebraska Medical Center

Once a month, a scientist from UNMC or Boys Town National Research Hospital walks into The Slowdown bar and explains their research in plain language to whoever shows up — for free. Past topics include the aging brain, how the brain heals itself after injury, the science of owls, vaccine development, why teenagers make the decisions they do, and how forensic fingerprint analysis actually works. Each talk runs about 30 minutes, followed by open Q&A from the audience and a pub quiz. No science background required, no preparation needed. Hosted by UNMC in partnership with Nebraska Science Festival. The 21+ venue means it's an adult crowd.

Rolling / Open

iNaturalist — Document Local Wildlife & Contribute to Science

California Academy of Sciences / National Geographic

iNaturalist is a free app and website that turns anyone with a smartphone into a citizen scientist. Take a photo of any plant, animal, fungus, or other organism you encounter — in your backyard, on a trail, or anywhere in Omaha — and the AI identifies it. Your observation joins a global database used by researchers to track biodiversity, species range changes, and ecological health. You can explore thousands of observations other people have made in the Omaha metro. No prior knowledge is required — the AI does the identification, and the community helps confirm it. Used by researchers worldwide, contributed to by everyone.

Rolling / Open

Common Soil Seed Library — Free Seed Borrowing & Plant Science

Omaha Public Library

The Common Soil Seed Library at Omaha Public Library is exactly what it sounds like: a library of seeds. Borrow up to 15 seed packets per month using your free library card, choose from 150+ varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers, take them home and plant them. No need to return the seeds — grow them, save them if you want, or just enjoy the harvest. The seed library celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025. Available at all 12 OPL locations. An accessible entry point into plant biology, sustainable food systems, and seed saving — with zero cost and zero prerequisite knowledge.

Rolling / Open

Joslyn Art Museum — Free General Admission

Joslyn Art Museum

One of the finest art museums in the Midwest, and it's free to walk in. No tickets, no membership required — just show up to 2200 Dodge Street and spend as long as you want among 11,000 works spanning ancient Egypt to 20th-century American painting to contemporary art. Free guided tours run every Friday and Saturday at 1 PM and every Sunday at 2 PM — drop in with no registration. The recently expanded Joslyn includes the 42,000-square-foot Hawks Pavilion and a sculpture garden you can wander through. The museum is on the ORBT bus line at 24th and Dodge and has free parking in the north lot.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramOmaha, NE (multiple MCC campuses)Official Source

Hot Shops Art Center — Free Walk-In Working Artist Complex

Hot Shops Art Center

Hot Shops Art Center is a working artist complex in North Omaha with 90+ artists operating glass studios, a metal foundry, ceramics studios, a print shop, painting studios, and an iron forge under one roof. Visiting is completely free. Walk in and explore — which studios are open varies by day, but on any given visit you might watch glass being blown, a blacksmith at the forge, a ceramicist at the wheel, or a jeweler finishing metalwork. Hot Shops also offers scheduled adult workshops in glassblowing, pottery, drawing, and other media at additional cost.

Rolling / Open

Metro Community College TRIO Student Support Services — Free Academic Support for MCC Students

Metropolitan Community College TRIO Programs

Metropolitan Community College's (MCC) TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program is a federally funded, completely free academic support program for MCC students who are first-generation, low-income, and/or have a documented disability. TRIO SSS at MCC provides academic advising and counseling, tutoring assistance, financial aid information and counseling, college transfer advising, workshop programming, and community service opportunities. The goal of the program is to help eligible students succeed at MCC, improve their GPA, earn their certificate or degree, and successfully transfer to four-year institutions. High school seniors who know they will be attending MCC should be aware of this program before enrollment — applying early after admission maximizes access to services. MCC serves the Omaha metro area at multiple campuses (Fort Omaha, Elkhorn, Papillion, Sarpy). This is a federally funded program and costs nothing to participate in.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopRalstonOfficial Source

Nebraska Writers Workshop — Free Weekly Writing Group

Nebraska Writers Workshop

A group of writers who meet every Wednesday to share what they're working on and help each other get better. Fiction, poetry, scripts — whatever you write. It's free, it's been going since 1985, and you don't need to have published anything to walk in. First and third Wednesdays are in-person at the Ralston Baright Public Library, 6–8 PM; second and fourth Wednesdays are on Zoom at 7 PM. More than 50 members, all levels, all genres. If you've been writing alone and want to share it with people who will give you honest, useful feedback — this is the room.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Poetry Society — Free Virtual Poets Reading Series

Nebraska Poetry Society

On the first Tuesday of every month, from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, the Nebraska Poetry Society hosts a Nebraska poet to read their work and talk about their literary journey — where the poems come from, how they were made, what poetry has meant to them. The event is free, virtual, and open to anyone. No registration required beyond using the link on the NPS website. A low-pressure way to hear living Nebraska poets, discover writers working in your own state, and spend an hour in a conversation about language and the world.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Poetry Slam — Nebraska Writers Collective at The Local Art Plug

Nebraska Writers Collective

The Omaha Poetry Slam is a monthly open mic and competitive poetry slam, held the second Saturday of every month at The Local Art Plug gallery in South Omaha. Doors open at 6:30 PM; the event starts at 7 PM with an open mic, followed by the slam. Open mic: anyone can sign up at the door and read. Competitive slam: bring three original poems, perform for up to 3 minutes per round, and be judged by five audience members on a 0.0–10.0 scale — top scorer wins $50. No experience required for the open mic. $10 suggested donation, not required to enter. Nebraska Writers Collective is an Omaha-based nonprofit that has run youth spoken word and community writing programs for years.

Rolling / Open

Great Plains Black History Museum — Exhibitions & Community Events

Great Plains Black History Museum

Located in North Omaha's historic Jewell Building at 2221 N 24th Street, the Great Plains Black History Museum preserves and exhibits the history and contributions of African Americans in the Great Plains region — history that is rarely taught in depth anywhere else. The museum hosts regular public events throughout 2026: an HBCU College Fair (February 21), a Black History Month Scavenger Hunt (February 22), a March on Washington Celebration (August 23), Fall Feast (October 11), Veterans Day recognition for African Americans who served (November 11), and Christmas in the Village (December 6). The museum sits in the center of North Omaha's historic 24th Street cultural corridor.

Rolling / Open

Opera Omaha Poetry & Music Project — Free Annual Public Concert

Opera Omaha / Nebraska Writers Collective

The Poetry & Music Project is an annual collaboration between Opera Omaha and the Nebraska Writers Collective. Each year, students in grades K-12 from Nebraska and Iowa submit poems on a theme — 2026's theme is Memory. Professional composers select poems and set them to original music. The work is premiered in a free public concert in May 2026, open to anyone. The poets, their families, and the broader community attend. Over eight years, more than 1,000 poems have been submitted. It's a rare chance to hear original compositions built from the words of Nebraska's young writers — music that wouldn't exist without them.

Rolling / Open

Heartland Workers Center — Worker Rights & Leadership Programs

Heartland Workers Center

South Omaha organization building power with immigrant and underrepresented workers across Nebraska. Programs include the Health and Safety Training Institute (HSTI) with OSHA-focused workplace safety trainings, a Workers' Rights program developing collective action and workplace advocacy, civic engagement through the "I Vote For My Family" campaign and "Becoming a Citizen Initiative," and the Family Leadership Institute for community leadership development. Regular community gatherings (Cafecito) connect neighbors across all programs. Serves the Omaha metro as well as Columbus, Fremont, Nebraska City, Schuyler, and West Point.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmahaGov. Database

Open Door Mission — Emergency Shelter, Meals & Recovery Programs

Open Door Mission

One of Omaha's largest emergency shelter campuses, with 917 beds serving men, women, and families. Lydia House serves women and families with life-skills programming and case management to address root causes of homelessness. The Garland Thompson Men's Center includes the WorkNet/GED program for education and job readiness, and the New Life Recovery Program for substance abuse recovery. The Journey to Work program connects residents with employment. A free on-site Health and Wellness Clinic provides basic medical care. Over 5,366 nutritious meals served daily. Homeless prevention resources also available for those housed but at risk.

Rolling / Open

ACCESSNebraska — Apply for SNAP, Medicaid & TANF Online

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Nebraska's free online portal for applying for food assistance (SNAP), health coverage (Medicaid and CHIP), and cash assistance (ADC/TANF). Apply at iServe.nebraska.gov, by mail, by phone, or in person at a Douglas County DHHS office. For Omaha-area help: Economic Assistance (SNAP/TANF) at (402) 595-1258 or statewide toll-free at (800) 383-4278. Medicaid: (402) 595-1178 or toll-free (855) 632-7633. NOTE: This is Nebraska's system. Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County residents apply through Iowa HHS — see the Iowa HHS listing on this platform.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportOnline (Iowa residents)Official Source

BrainFuse HelpNow — Free Online Tutoring for Iowa Residents

BrainFuse / State Library of Iowa

Free live online tutoring available daily 2–11pm through the State Library of Iowa. Covers all K-12 subjects plus writing help and career resources. Available in multiple languages — especially relevant for multilingual families in Council Bluffs. No account required for many features. Every student in Council Bluffs has access through their Iowa residency. Also includes writing lab (essay review within 24 hours), skills building modules, and adult learning resources.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NE (metro-wide)Official Source

UPchieve — Free On-Demand 1:1 Online Tutoring & College Counseling

UPchieve

Free on-demand 1:1 online tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, SAT prep, and college counseling. No appointments needed — connect with a trained volunteer tutor immediately. Specifically designed to reach low-income high school students. Also offers college essay review, college application help, and financial aid guidance. Mission-driven: aims to serve 8 million low-income high school students in the U.S. by 2030.

Rolling / Open

T.O.O.L.S. — Trades Offer Opportunities That Lead to Success (Grades 7–12, Omaha Metro)

Nebraska Center for Workforce Development and Education

T.O.O.L.S. (Trades Offer Opportunities That Lead to Success) is a free, year-round career exploration program for Omaha-area students in grades 7 through 12. The program runs hands-on construction and trades career exploration activities — giving middle and high school students a real look at what a career in the skilled trades actually looks and feels like before committing to a training path. T.O.O.L.S. is a collaborative effort between the Omaha Federation of Labor AFL-CIO, the William Brennan Institute for Labor Studies at UNO, the United Way of the Midlands, and local business and apprenticeship partners. The trades workforce in Nebraska has a serious shortage — more than half of skilled-trade workers in the state are expected to retire in the coming years, and not enough young people are entering these fields. T.O.O.L.S. exists specifically to bridge that gap by connecting students with trades career information, employer contacts, and a clear picture of what registered apprenticeship means. If you are in middle or high school in the Omaha area and want to understand what building trades, construction, or a skilled-labor career actually looks like as a pathway — this program is a direct, free entry point.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha Performing Arts / Tenaska Center, Omaha, NE

Omaha Performing Arts Education — Community Classes & Workshops

Omaha Performing Arts

The education arm of O-PA offers classes, workshops, and camps in theater, dance, and music for all ages at the new Tenaska Center (opening Spring 2026). Financial aid is available through their Arts Access fund. Spring and summer 2026 enrollment is currently open — if cost has been a barrier to arts participation, the access programs are worth checking.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipNebraska (statewide)Official Source

Do Space Digital Lab — Free Technology Access & Learning

Omaha Public Library

Do Space is Omaha's free technology resource center, now part of the Omaha Public Library system. Originally an independent tech library at 72nd and Dodge, Do Space merged with OPL in 2026 and equipment access was restored at the Milton R. Abrahams Branch (5111 N. 90th St, Omaha) in February 2026. A new permanent home with an expanded digital lab is being built within the Central Library, expected to open in April 2026. Do Space provides free public access to high-end computers, 3D printers, laser cutters, audio recording equipment, digital cameras, and technology classes. Classes and workshops cover coding, design, 3D printing, digital literacy, and more — all at no cost. An essential free resource for anyone learning tech skills, prototyping a product, or building a portfolio.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska National Guard State Tuition Assistance — Up to $4,000/Year for Guard Members

Nebraska Military Department / Nebraska National Guard

Nebraska National Guard members who enlist or are currently serving can receive State Tuition Assistance (STA) covering up to 100% of tuition at Nebraska public colleges and universities, capped at $4,000 per fiscal year. The Nebraska STA applies to UNO, UNL, UNK, Metropolitan Community College, Southeast Community College, and all other Nebraska public institutions. Combined with federal Tuition Assistance (available through Army TA or Air Force TA programs), Guard members can often attend college at near-zero tuition cost. The Nebraska National Guard STA requires that the member be in good standing and maintain satisfactory academic progress. Application is through the Nebraska Military Department. Students interested in joining the National Guard specifically for education benefits should contact a local recruiter — who can explain the full education benefits package including the Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR), which provides additional monthly benefits for Guard members enrolled in college. The Guard is an especially strong pathway for Omaha/metro students who want to serve part-time while attending college locally. Note: STA eligibility requires enlisting in the Nebraska National Guard. This is not a standalone scholarship — it is part of the Guard service commitment.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipAmes, IA

Iowa State University — First Cyclones Scholarship (Full Tuition, First-Generation Students)

Iowa State University Office of Admissions

The First Cyclones Scholarship is a full Iowa in-state tuition scholarship at Iowa State University specifically for first-generation college students and underrepresented students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and potential. "First Cyclones" acknowledges students who would be the first in their family to earn a college degree — one of the defining identities of many Omaha and Council Bluffs area students. This is a competitive award requiring a separate application. Recipients are among the most accomplished applicants in ISU's pool and represent a commitment by ISU to build a diverse, first-generation-friendly campus. Full in-state tuition value is approximately $9,500-$10,000/year — approximately $38,000-$40,000 over four years (verify current rate). Apply by the First Cyclones scholarship deadline — this may be earlier than the general admission deadline (verify at iastate.edu). COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: If you would be the first in your family to attend college, the First Cyclones Scholarship was created for you. CB first-generation students are Iowa residents — they pay in-state tuition and are fully eligible to compete for this award. This is one of ISU's highest-profile equity scholarships. STACKING: Full-tuition competitive awards like First Cyclones do NOT stack with automatic merit tier awards.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha (Nebraska Medical Center and satellite locations)Official Source

Avenue Scholars Career Pathway Program

Avenue Scholars

A free program connecting Omaha-area high school students with career coaches, academic support, paid internships, and post-secondary planning. Avenue Scholars walks alongside students from high school into their first career — covering associate degrees and certificates.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Medicine — Hospital Volunteer Program

Nebraska Medicine

Nebraska Medicine offers volunteer roles at Nebraska Medical Center, Bellevue Medical Center, and Village Pointe Health Center. Volunteers welcome patients and guests, assist with wayfinding, visit newly admitted patients, support the Child Life team with pediatric activities, and staff information desks. All training is provided free of charge. The application and orientation process takes approximately four weeks. This is one of the most direct free pathways into clinical healthcare exposure in the Omaha metro — widely used by pre-med, pre-nursing, and allied health students as meaningful career preparation.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha metro (multiple CHI Health locations)Official Source

CHI Health — Hospital & Hospice Volunteer Program

CHI Health / CommonSpirit

CHI Health operates multiple hospitals and health facilities across the Omaha metro area, offering free volunteer opportunities for ages 14 and up. Teen volunteers gain skills and leadership experience in a hospital environment. Adult volunteers provide hospitality, patient support, and wayfinding assistance. The hospice volunteer program through CHI Health at Home provides profound exposure to end-of-life care — valuable for anyone considering nursing, social work, chaplaincy, or counseling careers. All volunteers receive complete training. Contact CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center - Bergan Mercy at (402) 398-6199 to get started.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsNebraska state parks near Omaha metroOfficial Source

Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium — Adult Volunteer & Docent Program

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

One of the world's premier zoos trains adult volunteer docents to facilitate educational experiences for guests — including biofact presentations, exhibit interpretation, guided tours, and support at special events. Volunteers receive in-depth training in conservation science, wildlife biology, and environmental education. Quarterly information sessions are held for prospective volunteers. Requires a 2-year commitment and minimum annual hours. This is one of the strongest free pathways into conservation biology, zoology, environmental education, and science communication careers in the Omaha metro. Email volunteers@omahazoo.com to learn about upcoming info sessions.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Game & Parks Commission — Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Program

Nebraska Game & Parks Commission

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) program engages volunteers in habitat restoration, trail building and maintenance, invasive species removal, pollinator garden enhancement, and environmental education at state parks and wildlife areas accessible from the Omaha metro. No prior experience is required — all work is supervised and skill development is part of the program. VIP volunteers gain hands-on experience in conservation biology, natural resources management, and environmental stewardship. The Nebraska Master Naturalist Program (nemasternaturalist.org) offers complementary 60-hour training for deeper engagement.

Rolling / Open

Networking & CommunityOmaha, NE (various venues)Official Source

CASA for Douglas County — Volunteer Court Advocate Training (Free, 30 Hours)

CASA for Douglas County

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Douglas County trains community volunteers to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children in court proceedings. The free 30-hour training spans five weeks and covers child welfare law, the court system, trauma-informed care, and effective advocacy. CASA volunteers gain direct exposure to family court, child welfare, social work, and law — making this one of the most meaningful free career exploration programs at the intersection of legal and social services. Requires a 21+ age minimum and a 2-year commitment of 10–12 hours per month. CASA is located at 2412 St. Mary's Ave, Omaha.

Rolling / Open

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands — Free Workshops & Career Events

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands

The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is the premier nonprofit sector organization in the Omaha metro, hosting dozens of workshops, trainings, and networking events year-round. Many events are free or low-cost — the annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands brings together 300+ nonprofit leaders. NAM's public events include governance workshops, fundraising training, advocacy sessions, and community events open to the public at no charge. The October Battle of the Bands community event is free and family-friendly. For anyone exploring careers in nonprofit management, fundraising, advocacy, or community development, NAM's event calendar is the single best resource in the metro.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha Metro / Western IowaOfficial Source

Aksarben / Horatio Alger Scholarship — Plan for 2027 (2026 Cycle Closed)

Aksarben Foundation / Horatio Alger Association

The 2026 deadline for this scholarship (February 15) has passed. If you are a current junior, bookmark this and apply in December 2026. The Aksarben/Horatio Alger Scholarship is a $10,000 award (over four years) for Nebraska and western Iowa students with demonstrated critical financial need. Council Bluffs — in Pottawattamie County — is considered western Iowa for the purposes of this scholarship. Participating colleges match the Horatio Alger award dollar-for-dollar, meaning your actual package may be worth significantly more at some schools. What you need: 2.0+ GPA, demonstrated critical financial need (determined by application), a commitment to pursuing a bachelor's degree, and demonstrated perseverance through hardship. Applications open approximately December 1 each year through February 15. The Horatio Alger Association also has national-level scholarships — visit horatioalger.org for the full portfolio. Set a reminder for December 1, 2026.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopOmaha, NE (by precinct)Official Source

Omaha Police Department — Citizen Police Academy (Free)

Omaha Police Department

The Omaha Police Department Citizen Police Academy is a free multi-week program offered by each OPD precinct that gives community members an inside look at police operations. Topics include criminal investigations, domestic violence response, K-9 patrol, mounted patrol, firearms safety, legal issues, and arrest and control tactics. Participants are offered a Ride-Along with an Omaha police officer during routine patrol. Each precinct runs its own academy on a rolling schedule — contact your local precinct to find the next available session. An excellent career exploration tool for anyone interested in law enforcement, criminal justice, public safety, or community policing.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopDouglas County, NE (Omaha metro)Official Source

Douglas County CERT — Free Community Emergency Response Team Training

Douglas County Office of Emergency Management / Tri-County Citizen Corps

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains community members to safely assist professional emergency responders during disasters. The free 26-hour training — offered by the Tri-County Citizen Corps covering Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, and Dodge counties — covers emergency preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, search and rescue basics, and disaster psychology. CERT graduates become certified community first responders. This training is one of the most direct free pathways into careers in emergency management, homeland security, fire service, EMS, and public health preparedness. Contact Tri-County CERT at (402) 339-4334 ext. 208 for current training dates.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceNebraska statewide (Omaha metro DHHS offices)Official Source

UNO School of Criminology — True Crime Public Lecture Series (Free)

University of Nebraska Omaha School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

UNO's nationally recognized School of Criminology and Criminal Justice — ranked among the top programs in the country — hosts a free public True Crime Lecture Series each semester. Spring 2025 features a presentation by criminologist Mark Langan on April 9, 4:00–5:00 PM, at the College of Public Affairs and Community Service (Room 132D). Everyone is welcome — no UNO enrollment required. The series covers real criminal cases through an academic lens, providing direct exposure to the fields of criminology, criminal justice, forensic science, and law. Career and internship fairs in the department are also open to community members interested in criminal justice careers.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Child Care Subsidy Program — Reduced-Cost Licensed Childcare for Working Families

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)

The Nebraska Child Care Subsidy Program helps low- and moderate-income working families pay for licensed childcare — including daycare centers, family childcare homes, and after-school programs. Families with income up to 185% of the federal poverty level may qualify (roughly $59,000/year for a family of four as of 2026). To receive the subsidy, at least one parent or guardian must be working, attending school or job training, or attending medical appointments. The subsidy is paid directly to your childcare provider — you pay only your co-pay portion based on income and family size. Apply through ACCESSNebraska at accessnebraska.ne.gov. The application process includes completing the Economic Assistance Application online and a phone interview with a DHHS caseworker. If cost of childcare is the barrier keeping you from working or attending school full-time, this is the program to apply for first.

Rolling / Open

The Durham Museum — Volunteer Docent & Visitor Experience Program

The Durham Museum

The Durham Museum — housed in Omaha's stunning historic Union Station — trains volunteer docents and visitor experience staff to bring local, regional, and national history to life for guests. Volunteers facilitate educational programs, guide exhibition areas, assist at the admissions desk and museum shop, and serve as membership ambassadors. Training is provided through printed and digital resources and shadowing with experienced staff. Regular volunteer open houses are held to onboard new cohorts. This is a meaningful pathway for anyone interested in museum careers, public history, archival work, cultural heritage, education, or arts administration.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & Clubs7023 Cass St, Omaha, NE

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts — Free Open Studios & Public Programs

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts is one of the premier artist residency programs in the country, and it opens its doors to the public through free programming including artist talks, open studio visits, curator-led tours, and hands-on workshops. The recurring Open House / Open Studios events — held in Spring and Fall — feature artist-led activities, exhibition tours, and access to artists-in-residence in their studios. All public programs are free and open to everyone. For anyone interested in careers as a visual artist, curator, arts administrator, gallery director, or arts educator, Bemis offers rare direct access to working professional artists and the contemporary art world.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Conservatory of Music — Community Music Classes & Lessons

Omaha Conservatory of Music (nonprofit)

A nonprofit community music school at 70th and Cass offering private lessons, group classes, and ensembles for all ages. Awards $290,000+ in financial aid annually — cost doesn't have to be the barrier. Adult programs include group classes and performance ensembles for non-majors and recreational musicians who just want to play.

Rolling / Open

Special Olympics Nebraska — Volunteer Coach Program (Free)

Special Olympics Nebraska

Special Olympics Nebraska trains and supports volunteer coaches who work with athletes with intellectual disabilities across 30+ sports including basketball, swimming, track and field, bowling, soccer, and more. No prior coaching experience is required — all training, certification materials, and support are provided free of charge. Coaches develop skills in adaptive sports instruction, athlete motivation, program management, and inclusive coaching. For anyone pursuing careers in coaching, athletic training, adapted physical education, therapeutic recreation, physical therapy, or sports administration, volunteering as a Special Olympics coach is one of the most meaningful and free career entry points in the Omaha metro. Special Olympics Nebraska headquarters is in Omaha.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopOmaha, NE (Creighton + multiple metro VITA sites)Official Source

Clarkson College — Spring Open House (PT, OT, Nursing & Allied Health Exploration)

Clarkson College

Clarkson College hosts a free annual spring open house for prospective students and career explorers to discover healthcare programs including Physical Therapist Assistant, Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, and Health Services Administration. Attendees can tour campus facilities, meet faculty and current students, and get detailed information about program-specific career pathways. Spring 2025 Open House is March 28. Clarkson College is a healthcare-focused institution embedded in the Nebraska Medicine health system — its graduates go directly into Omaha's largest healthcare network. The annual event is one of the best free ways to explore PT, OT, and allied health careers in person.

Rolling / Open

IRS VITA Program — Free Volunteer Tax Preparation Training (Creighton / Omaha EITC Coalition)

Creighton University / Omaha EITC Coalition / IRS

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program trains volunteers to prepare free federal and state tax returns for low-to-moderate income individuals and families (generally earning $65,000/year or less). Creighton University's Heider College of Business runs an active VITA site in Omaha, and the Omaha EITC Coalition coordinates additional VITA preparation locations across the metro. All IRS training is provided free of charge — volunteers must complete IRS certification tests in basic tax law. VITA volunteering provides hands-on tax preparation experience that is directly equivalent to entry-level accounting and tax work — it is one of the best free career development opportunities available for aspiring accountants, financial planners, and tax professionals. Training typically begins in November/December for the January–April filing season.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramScottsbluff, NE

Western Nebraska Community College — Affordable Community College in Scottsbluff, NE

Western Nebraska Community College

Western Nebraska Community College is a two-year public college in Scottsbluff offering associate degrees and certificate programs. In-state tuition is $3,840 per year, making it one of the more affordable higher education options in Nebraska. Use the net price calculator to estimate your actual cost after financial aid.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramWinnebago, NE

Little Priest Tribal College — Tribal Community College in Winnebago, NE

Little Priest Tribal College

Little Priest Tribal College is a two-year tribal college in Winnebago, Nebraska, serving the Winnebago Tribe and surrounding communities. It offers associate degrees and certificate programs with in-state tuition of $5,400 per year. The college provides an affordable, culturally grounded pathway to higher education.

Rolling / Open

IBEW Local 22 / OJEATC — Electrician Apprenticeship (Free to Apply, Earn While You Learn)

IBEW Local 22 / Omaha Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Committee

IBEW Local 22 and the Omaha Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Committee (OJEATC) accept year-round applications for the Inside Electrician, Residential Electrician, and Construction Wireman apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships are earn-while-you-learn — starting pay for entry-level (Construction Wireman) is $14/hour and increases with advancement through five pay tiers. Applications are free. Apprentices receive paid classroom and on-the-job training at no cost to them. Completing an IBEW apprenticeship leads to licensed journeyman electrician status and wages of $30–$40+/hour. This is one of the most accessible and financially rewarding free career pathways in the Omaha metro — no college degree required.

Rolling / Open

Learning for ALL — Free GED, ESL & Tutoring

Learning for ALL

Completely free adult education programs at the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center (6001 Dodge St, Omaha). Offers GED exam preparation, multi-level ESL classes, and 1-on-1 English tutoring with volunteer tutors. Available in-person and online. GED and ESL registration opens in early 2026.

Rolling / Open

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha — Free Volunteer Build Days (Year-Round)

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha runs volunteer build days year-round at residential construction sites across the city, plus Rock the Block neighborhood revitalization events and Habitat ReStore operations. No construction experience or tools are required — on-site supervisors train every volunteer in the tasks of the day. Volunteers ages 16 and up are welcome. Build days provide real hands-on experience in carpentry, framing, roofing, insulation, drywall, and finishing work. For anyone exploring careers in construction, skilled trades, project management, civil engineering, architecture, or nonprofit housing development, Habitat builds are one of the best free entry points in the metro. Regular build days are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (serves Nebraska + Southwest Iowa)Official Source

UA Local 464 — Plumbers, Steamfitters & HVAC Apprenticeship (Earn While You Learn)

Steamfitters & Plumbers Local Union 464

Steamfitters and Plumbers Local Union 464 runs a five-year DOL-registered apprenticeship covering plumbing, HVAC/refrigeration, and steamfitting in the Omaha metro. This is a union earn-while-you-learn program: you work full-time on real job sites, getting paid from day one, while attending related technical instruction on a schedule set by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee. No prior plumbing or pipefitting experience is required. You need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. The application window opens once per year during the first two weeks of March — this is a firm deadline, so plan ahead. The application process includes a math test and a formal interview. Completing this apprenticeship earns you journeyman plumber or pipefitter status — one of the most in-demand licensed trades in the country, with journeyman wages in Omaha reaching $30–$45/hr depending on specialty. UA Local 464 has trained the plumbers and pipefitters who build and maintain virtually every major building in the Omaha metro. If you are serious about a career that pays you well, provides benefits, and never ships your job overseas, call the union hall or visit lu464.org before March.

Rolling / Open

Laborers Local 1140 — Construction Laborer Apprenticeship (Nebraska & Southwest Iowa)

Laborers' International Union of North America Local 1140

Laborers Local 1140 trains construction laborers for the Omaha metro and Southwest Iowa — and if you are looking for the most accessible entry point into union construction with no prior experience required, this is it. Construction laborers are the foundation of every job site: demolition, concrete work, site preparation, pipe laying, tunnel work, hazardous materials handling, and more. This is physical work, but it is skilled work that requires knowledge, certifications, and judgment. Local 1140's apprenticeship program runs approximately two years, combining 3,600 hours of on-the-job training with 320 hours of classroom instruction. Starting wage is $21.60/hr in year one, increasing to $22.80/hr in year two, and reaching $24.00/hr at journeyman. With the union benefit package factored in — health insurance, pension, and annuity — the total compensation package significantly exceeds the wage rate. The Omaha Building & Construction Trades Council at the same Sorensen Parkway address explicitly covers Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, so Council Bluffs residents are served by this program. If you want to get into union construction as fast as possible, Local 1140 is your entry point. Call 402-573-7878 or visit laborers1140.com.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (serves Nebraska + Western Iowa)Official Source

SMART Local 3 — Sheet Metal Workers Apprenticeship (Nebraska + Western Iowa)

Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Local 3

Sheet Metal Workers Local 3 trains the craftspeople who fabricate, install, and maintain HVAC ductwork, architectural sheet metal, and commercial building envelope systems across Nebraska and Western Iowa. This is a skilled trade that combines hands-on fabrication work with real engineering knowledge — sheet metal workers read blueprints, calculate airflow requirements, cut and bend metal to precise specifications, and install systems that keep every major building in this metro functioning. Local 3's apprenticeship offers some of the strongest compensation in the Omaha construction trades: apprentice starting wage of $21.68/hr plus $13.51/hr in benefits ($35.19/hr total package from day one), scaling up to journeyman wages of $41.06/hr plus $19.41/hr in benefits ($60.47/hr total package). To put that in plain terms: a journeyman sheet metal worker in this local earns over $85,000/year in wages alone, plus a full union benefit package. Local 3 explicitly covers Nebraska and Western Iowa — Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County workers are served by this program. The apprenticeship requires an ACCUPLACER math assessment at MCC as part of the application process. Visit smartlocal3.com/apprenticeship or call the local for current application windows.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsPapillion, NE (serves Nebraska + Iowa)Official Source

Carpenters Training Institute — Apprenticeship (Nebraska + Iowa, Multiple Specialties)

North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters / Carpenters Training Institute

The Carpenters Training Institute runs four-year registered apprenticeships for the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters (NCSRCC), covering Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The Omaha/Lincoln training campus is in Papillion, Nebraska. This program is not just for people who build houses — carpenters in this region work across five distinct specialties: Carpenter (commercial/residential framing and finishing), Millwright (industrial machinery installation and maintenance), Pile Driver (foundation work and heavy civil construction), Floor Coverer (commercial flooring systems), and Cabinet Maker (custom millwork and casework). Each specialty is a four-year earn-while-you-learn program: 160 hours of trade-related classroom instruction per year plus full-time fieldwork. There is no tuition cost. Apprentices earn wages from day one. The Carpenters Training Institute has a formal academic articulation agreement with Metropolitan Community College — the classroom hours you complete as a carpentry apprentice count toward MCC college credits, so you are simultaneously building a career and accumulating transferable college credit. Because the NCSRCC covers both Nebraska and Iowa, Council Bluffs residents are served by the same program as Omaha residents. Contact the Papillion training center at 402-345-8658 or email rsantamaria@carpenterstraininginstitute.org.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (serves Nebraska + Iowa)

WIOA Youth Program — Dynamic Workforce Solutions

Dynamic Workforce Solutions

Federally funded workforce program serving youth in Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington Counties. Helps young people set educational and employment goals, earn credentials, and connect with paid work experience and job training in high-demand fields.

Rolling / Open

IUPAT District Council 81 / Local 109 — Painters & Allied Trades Apprenticeship (Nebraska + Iowa)

International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, District Council 81 / Local 109

The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) Local 109 in Omaha has operated since 1889 and is part of District Council 81, which covers Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Western Illinois. Painters and Allied Trades workers are not just painters — the trade covers commercial painting, wallcovering, drywall finishing, glazing, soft floor covering, and specialty coatings. Union painters work in commercial construction, industrial facilities, and public infrastructure projects. They work from blueprints and specifications that require real skill to execute. The apprenticeship teaches surface preparation, application techniques, specialty coating systems, and safety practices for working at height and with chemical materials. Because DC 81 covers both Iowa and Nebraska, Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County residents are served by Local 109. The apprenticeship program details — length, wages, current application window — are not published on the website and require direct contact with the local. Call Local 109 at (402) 556-9373 or visit iupatdc81.org and contact the Nebraska/South Dakota office for current information.

Rolling / Open

ABC Nebraska — NCCER Craft Apprenticeship Training (11 Trades, Non-Union, Omaha Training Center)

Associated Builders and Contractors, Nebraska South Dakota Chapter

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is the national association for merit-shop (non-union) construction employers. ABC Nebraska South Dakota runs a full apprenticeship and craft training program through its Omaha Training Center using NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) curriculum — the most widely recognized construction training standard in the country. If you are interested in a construction career but prefer to enter the non-union pathway, ABC Nebraska is your primary resource. Eleven trades are available through the ABC Nebraska training program: Carpentry, Drywall, Electrical, HVAC, Electronic Systems Technology, Heavy Equipment Operator, Masonry, Pipefitting, Plumbing, Sheet Metal, and Welding. That breadth of options in one program is nearly unique in this metro. The NCCER National Training Registry credential is recognized across the United States — if you build skills through ABC Nebraska in Omaha, those credentials are portable if you ever move. The program delivers 144 hours of classroom instruction per year (the NCCER Related Technical Instruction requirement). Apprentices work full-time for ABC member companies while attending classroom training — earn-while-you-learn, same model as union apprenticeships. The application process scores applicants on education, work history, and demonstrated construction training, and qualified applicants enter a ranked pool from which ABC member companies hire. Note: being added to the pool does not guarantee employment — companies hire from the pool directly. If your initial application is not competitive, ABC offers free re-evaluation pathways through completing OSHA courses, their Construction Academy, and First Aid/CPR. The Omaha Training Center is at 10640 Burt Circle, Omaha, NE 68114. Call 402-344-4258 or email training@abcnesd.org.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Master Naturalist Program — Conservation Education & Volunteer Training

Nebraska Master Naturalist Foundation

The Nebraska Master Naturalist Program trains adult volunteers (19+) in the ecology, geology, and natural history of Nebraska — then connects them to conservation work across the state. Training covers Conservation Biology, Ecology, Geology, Grasslands, Woodland Ecology, Aquatic Ecosystems, Citizen Science, Mammals, Insects, and Birds — taught by scientists, faculty, and natural resource professionals from UNO, Nebraska Game & Parks, and partner organizations. Core training is 24 hours (shorter track) or 60 hours (full certification). The River City Chapter is based in Omaha. After training, certified volunteers contribute hours to wildlife monitoring, public education, habitat restoration, and citizen science projects.

Rolling / Open

MCC Adult Education — Free GED & ESL Classes

Metropolitan Community College

Free GED instruction and testing at multiple MCC campuses across the Omaha metro, including Fort Omaha, North Express, South Express, Applied Technology Center, and others. The program also includes ESL classes. Taught by certified educators, this program serves adults without a high school diploma who want to earn a GED or improve their English skills.

Rolling / Open

Latino Center of the Midlands — GED, ESL & Citizenship Classes

Latino Center of the Midlands

Omaha's largest Latino-serving organization offers bilingual adult education at their South location (4937 South 24th Street). Spring 2026 programs: GED preparation taught in Spanish, English Language Learning (ELL) at two levels, Pre-GED foundational coursework, U.S. citizenship interview preparation, and Basic Spanish Literacy. Classes meet twice weekly (Monday–Thursday, 2-hour sessions) or Saturdays (3-hour sessions). Spring 2026 semester runs January 20–May 16. Also serves over 3,600 individuals and families annually through mentoring, youth programs, nutrition education, home gardening, the city's largest youth internship program, and civic engagement.

Rolling / Open

The Union Inside/Outside Fellowship — Free Studio & Co-Op Access for Omaha Artists

The Union for Contemporary Art

The Inside/Outside Fellowship is the Union's annual program for artists based in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro. Five artists or artist collectives are selected each year by a jury of local and national voices. Fellows receive a free 400-square-foot studio at The Union for one year plus a complimentary Co-Op Studios pass — providing access to ceramics, textile, printmaking, film photography, and digital media equipment. Four of the five fellowship spots are specifically reserved for Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area artists. The program is designed for deep studio practice and community engagement: making work and sharing it with North Omaha.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramOmaha, NE (Urban League of Nebraska)Official Source

UNO TRIO Project Achieve — Free Academic & Advising Support for UNO First-Gen Students

University of Nebraska Omaha — TRIO Project Achieve

UNO's TRIO Student Support Services program — called Project Achieve — is a federally funded, completely free academic support program for University of Nebraska Omaha undergraduates who are first-generation, low-income, and/or have a documented disability. Project Achieve provides: academic advising and personal counseling, one-on-one tutoring assistance, financial aid information and counseling, transfer advising (for students considering further study after UNO), community service connections, and workshops on time management, financial literacy, graduate school preparation, and career planning. This is distinct from UNO's Upward Bound program (which serves high school students) — Project Achieve specifically serves enrolled UNO undergraduates. Every UNO student who qualifies should know this program exists and apply. High school seniors who are first-gen or low-income and plan to attend UNO should apply for Project Achieve immediately after UNO enrollment.

Rolling / Open

UNO North Omaha Initiative — College Courses in Your Neighborhood (Urban League Site)

University of Nebraska Omaha — Office of Academic Affairs

The UNO North Omaha Initiative brings University of Nebraska Omaha courses directly into North Omaha community spaces — eliminating one of the biggest barriers to college enrollment for non-traditional, first-generation, and low-income students: getting to campus. The Initiative launched in fall 2024 and offers 12–15 credit hours per semester at the Urban League of Nebraska building in North Omaha. Courses span Black Studies, Business, Criminal Justice, Education, and Gerontology. Students receive the same UNO credit, the same UNO instructors, and the same degree pathway as students attending class on the main UNO campus — but they do it in a community space they already know and trust. Tuition assistance is available. This initiative directly targets students who might never take the step of walking onto a traditional college campus — people who have thought about college, who have the ability to succeed, but who face real logistical, psychological, or cultural barriers to enrollment. If you are a North Omaha resident who has been thinking about college but hasn't made the move — this program was designed for you. Courses are offered at the Urban League of Nebraska, 3040 Lake St, Omaha.

Rolling / Open

CIRA — Center for Immigrant & Refugee Advancement

CIRA (Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement)

Formerly the Refugee Empowerment Center (renamed 2024), CIRA provides free ESL classes at four proficiency levels, employment skills training, job placement support, cultural orientation, and youth peer mentorship for refugees and immigrants in Omaha. Interpreters are available for medical and government appointments. Services available in multiple languages.

Rolling / Open

Food Bank for the Heartland — Find Food Near You

Food Bank for the Heartland

Regional food bank distributing through more than 500 partner pantries, schools, churches, and nonprofits across Nebraska and western Iowa — including Omaha and Council Bluffs. Distributed 24.4 million meals in FY2025. Use the interactive "Find Food" map at foodbankheartland.org/food-resources/find-food/ to locate the nearest food pantry, mobile pantry stop, or food distribution event by ZIP code. New warehouse facility opened at 4645 S. 84th Street, Omaha in 2025–2026. Also runs the BackPack Program (weekend food for schoolchildren) and Kids Café (after-school meals).

Rolling / Open

Heartland Hope Mission — Food Pantry & Family Essentials

Heartland Hope Mission

South Omaha food pantry and family resource center providing working families with a week's supply of groceries, diapers, formula, baby wipes, clothing, hygiene items, and household goods. Also offers SNAP enrollment assistance, community referrals, and a New Parents Program with specialized resources for new mothers. Households may visit once per month; senior (60+) or disabled households with documentation may visit twice monthly. Second location at 15555 Industrial Rd in West Omaha.

Rolling / Open

Schoolhouse.world — Free SAT Bootcamps & Peer Tutoring

Schoolhouse.world

Free peer-to-peer tutoring platform founded by Sal Khan (Khan Academy). Offers live small-group SAT Bootcamps on rolling 4-week cycles — tutors have scored in the top 5% on the SAT. Students report score jumps of 100–240+ points. Also covers SAT Skill Builders, AP preparation, college admissions mentorship, essay workshops, and financial aid workshops. Has served over 170,000 students globally. Partnered with College Board for official SAT prep materials.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmahaCommunity Org

League of Women Voters of Greater Omaha

The League of Women Voters of Greater Omaha (LWV GO) is a nonpartisan civic organization that promotes informed participation in government and democracy. LWV GO hosts voter registration drives, candidate forums, ballot issue education sessions, and a monthly "Books After Dark" civic book club. They also produce "Go Vote Omaha," a local civic education TV show and YouTube series. LWV GO advocates for voting rights, government transparency, and equal access to the ballot. Membership is open to anyone who supports the mission.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Appleseed — Public Interest Law & Civic Advocacy

Nebraska Appleseed

Nebraska Appleseed is a nonprofit public interest law organization that advocates for equity and justice in Nebraska through litigation, policy advocacy, and community education. They work on issues affecting low-income families, immigrants, and people facing economic hardship — including housing, healthcare, education, and economic stability. Appleseed hosts public events including annual Legislative Update presentations, the Good Apple Awards gala, and educational forums open to community members. A valuable resource for understanding how to navigate and influence state-level policy.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic Support13 metro locations including 815 N 16th St, Council Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

Project Everlast — Foster Youth Support

Project Everlast

Connects current and former foster youth (ages 14–26) in Nebraska with housing assistance, educational support, employment help, and a community of peers who understand the foster care experience.

Rolling / Open

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands — Power Hour Homework Help

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands

Structured after-school homework help program at 13 locations across the metro, including Council Bluffs (815 N 16th St), South Omaha, North Omaha, Florence, and Millard. Members receive dedicated homework space, access to technology, nutritious evening meals, and leadership/career development programs. CareerLaunch for ages 13–18 provides career exploration and job readiness. Free membership at select locations; otherwise $30/year. Serves over 7,000 youth across the metro annually.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic Support2200 N 20th St, Omaha, NEOfficial Source

Hope Center for Kids — Academic Support, ACT/SAT Prep & College Prep

The Hope Center for Kids

After-school and summer program in North Omaha providing comprehensive academic support for K-12 youth: homework help, ACT/SAT preparation, college visit opportunities, and scholarship research assistance. Students receive a hot meal every weeknight. The Employment and Learning Academy provides $50 weekly stipends for teen participants who complete community service hours — those teens also earn eligibility for in- and out-of-state college visits. Serves over 2,700 youth annually. One of the most equity-critical resources in the Omaha metro.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportNorth Omaha & South Omaha centersOfficial Source

Girls Inc. of Omaha — Free Tutoring, STEM & College Prep

Girls Inc. of Omaha

Two centers in North Omaha and South Omaha offering free education programs for girls: homework help, tutoring, literacy programming, STEM (coding, robotics, aquaponics), and college/career prep. Provides free transportation from 40+ local schools, counseling services, and healthy meals and snacks. Volunteer literacy tutoring sessions available weekly (5–6pm). Served 818 girls in 2023. Art rooms, computer labs, library, woodshop, and sports field at each center.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportOnline (statewide Nebraska)

Nebraska SMART Program — Free Virtual Tutoring (All Nebraska K-12 Students)

Nebraska State College System

Free virtual tutoring program through the Nebraska State College System, connecting K-12 students with pre-service teachers studying education at Peru State College, Chadron State, and Wayne State. Available to all Nebraska K-12 students — public, private, and homeschooled — regardless of location. Students get support from education majors who are learning to teach while providing real tutoring.

Rolling / Open

Kiewit Luminarium — Interactive Science Museum with Free Access Pathways

Kiewit Luminarium

The Kiewit Luminarium on Omaha's riverfront opened in 2023 with 125+ interactive exhibits at the intersection of science, art, and human perception — exhibits that respond to light, shadow, sound, and motion. Programming includes Holland Talks, a lecture series bringing nationally known researchers to present accessible talks on topics like emotion, awe, and the science of perception; and Thursday Night Light, a weekly adults-only evening (7–10 PM) where guests explore exhibits with drinks from the bar. Free family memberships are available through partnerships with the Latino Center of the Midlands and Girls Inc. The Omaha Public Library offers Discovery Passes for free daytime admission.

Rolling / Open

The Union for Contemporary Art — Free Gallery, Theater & Community Events

The Union for Contemporary Art

An art center in North Omaha — at 24th and Lake — built because the neighborhood deserved one. The Union hosts free gallery exhibitions, theater productions, neighborhood arts programming, a community garden (the Abundance Garden), and Family Nights that open the building to the whole neighborhood. Founded in 2011 by Brigitte McQueen to address the historical arts access gap in North Omaha, The Union operates from the belief that art strengthens communities and that Black and brown artists deserve institutions built for them. The building sits a few blocks from the Great Plains Black History Museum and Culxr House, in the heart of North Omaha's cultural corridor.

Rolling / Open

Culxr House — North Omaha Arts, Music & Creative Community Hub

Culxr House

Culxr House is a nearly 8,000-square-foot arts and creative hub at 3014 North 24th Street, founded by hip-hop artist Marcey Yates in 2018 and established as a nonprofit in 2019. The building includes a performance stage with PA system and dedicated space for arts, music, civic engagement, and community events. Culxr House hosts all-ages events throughout the year — youth workshops, vendor markets, local fashion showcases, music performances, and civic programming. It operates as an incubator for local creatives: artists, musicians, designers, and entrepreneurs rooted in the historic North 24th Street corridor.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NE (Statewide Nebraska)Official Source

Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) at UNO

Nebraska Business Development Center

The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) at UNO provides free, confidential, one-on-one consulting services to Nebraska entrepreneurs and small business owners at any stage — from idea to established business. NBDC consultants help with business planning, financial analysis, loan packaging, market research, government contracting, and more. The NBDC is a statewide network funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the University of Nebraska, making it free to all clients.

Rolling / Open

EducationQuest Foundation — Free FAFSA Completion Help & College Access Events (Omaha)

EducationQuest Foundation

EducationQuest Foundation is Nebraska's statewide college access nonprofit and one of the most important free FAFSA resources available to Nebraska students and families. EducationQuest provides free, one-on-one FAFSA completion assistance, financial aid counseling, college planning workshops, and scholarship search support to any Nebraska student — at no cost. The EducationQuest Omaha office serves the metro area with in-person events, school visits, and drop-in counseling hours. FAFSA completion events are scheduled throughout the fall and winter (peak season: October through February when FAFSA is open). Spanish-language support is available. Students who have never filled out the FAFSA — or parents who are overwhelmed by the form — should contact EducationQuest before attempting the form alone. Common FAFSA mistakes cost students thousands of dollars in lost aid. EducationQuest staff correct these errors at no charge. Key services: FAFSA completion (including FAFSA Simplification Act changes), financial aid award letter comparison, appeals guidance, scholarship search, college application support. Nebraska high school juniors and seniors are the primary audience, but EducationQuest also serves adult learners and community college students returning to school.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

MCC Automotive Technology — AAS Degree (ASE Master Level Accredited, Toyota T-TEN, MOPAR CAP)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's Automotive Technology program is one of the most credentialed automotive programs in the region — accredited by ASE Education Foundation at the Master Technician level, which is the highest accreditation available. The program covers all eight ASE certification areas: engine repair, automatic transmissions, manual drivetrains, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance. MCC has formal manufacturer training partnerships with Toyota (T-TEN program) and Mopar (MOPAR CAP) — meaning students in these specialized tracks receive additional factory training and are on a direct pipeline to dealership employment. The program also offers access to 19+ NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers) industry certifications. An ASE-certified automotive technician in Omaha typically earns $22–$45/hr depending on specialization and shop type. Dealership master technicians can earn significantly more. This program is financial aid eligible. Contact the Automotive Technology department at mccneb.edu for current program details, T-TEN and MOPAR CAP enrollment, and advising.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipRemote (National — local chapter required)Official Source

P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education — Up to $3,000 (Women, Chapter-Sponsored)

P.E.O. International

The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (PCE) provides funding to women who need financial assistance to complete or continue their undergraduate or graduate education after an interruption in their schooling. Awards are up to $3,000 and are granted through local P.E.O. chapter sponsorship — meaning the applicant must be personally recommended by a member of a local P.E.O. chapter. P.E.O. chapters exist throughout the Omaha metro area and in southwest Iowa, including Council Bluffs. If you do not personally know a P.E.O. member, you can contact P.E.O. International to be connected with a chapter near you — many chapters actively seek deserving candidates to sponsor. The PCE is specifically for women who have experienced a break in their education (due to family, work, illness, or other life circumstances) and are now returning to complete their degree. This is particularly relevant for adult learners and returning students. Deadlines are set at the chapter level, typically November through February — contact your local P.E.O. chapter for current deadlines. A separate P.E.O. Scholar Award (up to $15,000) is available for women in doctoral programs.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

MCC Electrical Technology — AAS Degree & Building Electrical Certificate

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's Electrical Technology program provides foundational training in commercial and residential electrical systems for students pursuing careers in the electrical trades. The program leads to an AAS degree and a Certificate of Achievement in Building Electrical Technology. Coursework covers electrical theory, National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance, wiring methods, motor controls, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industrial electrical systems. This program is distinct from and complementary to the IBEW Local 22 union apprenticeship — some students use MCC's Electrical Technology program as preparation for the union apprenticeship, while others use it to enter the electrical field independently or with non-union employers. The MCC Plumbing Apprenticeship program notes that 4 years of OJT is required for the Omaha Journeyman License — similarly, the electrical pathway to full licensure requires field hours in addition to the MCC credential. Contact program coordinator Marty Vaughan at mvaughan@mccneb.edu for current program details and advising.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipNebraska (statewide — MCC transfer to UNO/UNL/UNK)

NAMI Omaha — Mental Health Program Leader Volunteer Training

NAMI Omaha

NAMI Omaha trains volunteer facilitators to lead peer support groups and community mental health education presentations. Two key pathways: (1) Recovery Support Group Facilitator Training — for people with lived mental health experience who want to lead peer support groups, and (2) Ending the Silence Presenter Training — equips volunteers to deliver mental health awareness presentations in schools and community settings. All training is free and all educational materials are provided. Requires lived experience with mental health as a person with a condition or as a family member of someone with a condition. Contact NAMI Omaha at namiomaha@gmail.com to learn about upcoming training dates.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Opportunity Scholarship — Up to $4,000/Year for Community College Transfer Students

Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education (CCPE)

The Nebraska Opportunity Scholarship is a state-funded need-based scholarship of up to $4,000 per year for Nebraska residents who have completed at least 24 credit hours at a Nebraska community college and transfer to an eligible Nebraska public 4-year university — including UNO, UNL, and UNK. This scholarship is specifically designed to reduce the financial barrier for community college students who want to continue their education at a 4-year institution but face cost barriers at the transfer point. Metropolitan Community College (MCC) students in the Omaha metro who plan to transfer to UNO, UNL, or UNK are the primary target audience. The scholarship requires demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required). Application is through the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education (CCPE). This scholarship addresses one of the most critical drop-off points in the education pipeline — the "transfer gap" where community college students who intend to transfer to a 4-year school often fail to follow through due to financial uncertainty. Any MCC student planning to transfer to a Nebraska 4-year university should research this scholarship. Note: Verify current program status and funding at ccpe.nebraska.gov — state scholarship programs can experience funding changes year to year.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramOmaha, NE (multiple OPS high schools)Official Source

TRIO Upward Bound — UNO

University of Nebraska at Omaha

Federally funded program helping first-generation and low-income high school students prepare for college. Includes tutoring, SAT/ACT prep, campus visits, and a summer residential program at UNO.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Public Schools Career & Technical Education (CTE) Pathways — Free Dual-Credit Trades, Healthcare, and Technology Programs

Omaha Public Schools

Omaha Public Schools (OPS) offers more than 20 Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways across its high schools — and many of them are free, in-school programs that come with dual college credit through Metropolitan Community College. CTE pathways include energy systems and manufacturing (Omaha Northwest), urban agriculture (Bryan High Urban Agriculture Academy), medical assisting and healthcare support, culinary arts, digital technology and IT, and construction trades. Students in OPS who complete three or more courses in a CTE sequence graduate at a rate 11% higher than those who don't participate. If you are already enrolled in OPS and nobody has told you these programs exist — this is that conversation. You can start in any of these pathways and earn real college credit while still in high school, at no cost to you. Talk to your school counselor or check ops.org to find the CTE offerings at your specific high school. CTE awards from the Nebraska Department of Education were received by OPS staff and schools as recently as 2025, confirming these programs are among the strongest in the state.

Rolling / Open

Henry Doorly Zoo — Monarch Butterfly Tagging & Amphibian Citizen Science

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Henry Doorly Zoo hosts public citizen science events where visitors contribute data to real scientific research. Monarch butterfly tagging events in August and September invite visitors to carefully hold a live Monarch, attach a small numbered tag to its wing, record its measurements, and release it — contributing to the continental tracking database that maps migration routes across North America. The Amphibian Conservation Education Project (ACEP) allows anyone to survey local populations of frogs, toads, and salamanders and report water quality data online. Both programs are free with zoo admission and require no prior experience.

Rolling / Open

SCORE Greater Omaha — Free Business Mentoring

SCORE Greater Omaha

SCORE Greater Omaha connects aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with free, confidential mentoring from experienced business professionals. Volunteer mentors provide one-on-one guidance on starting a business, writing a business plan, financing, marketing, operations, and growth strategy. SCORE also hosts low-cost and free workshops on business topics throughout the year. SCORE is a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and has helped millions of entrepreneurs nationwide.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportIowa Western Community College, 2700 College Rd, Council Bluffs, IA

Khan Academy — Free Self-Paced Learning & Official SAT Prep

Khan Academy

Completely free self-paced learning platform covering every subject from elementary math through AP courses and college-level material. The official Digital SAT prep partner of College Board — the gold standard for free SAT prep, including full-length adaptive practice tests, personalized learning dashboards, and skill-specific review. No account required to start browsing. Covers math, science, reading, writing, history, economics, and AP courses for every subject. Used by millions of students globally.

Rolling / Open

Iowa Western Community College — Free Tutoring Center

Iowa Western Community College

Free academic support for enrolled IWCC students at the Council Bluffs campus: tutoring in core academic subjects, writing center services, and academic accommodation support. The tutoring center is a built-in resource for any student enrolled at IWCC — one of the most accessible college pathways in the Council Bluffs area.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportUNO Campus, Omaha, NE

UNO Math-Science Learning Center — Free STEM Tutoring

University of Nebraska Omaha

Free peer tutoring in math, science, statistics, chemistry, physics, biology, astronomy, geology, and engineering for UNO students. Peer tutors are recommended by professors and trained in mentorship. Includes study spaces, computers, and reserve study materials. Drop-in and scheduled sessions available.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportMammel Hall, UNO Campus, Omaha, NE

UNO College of Business — Free Tutoring Labs (Accounting, Finance, Stats)

University of Nebraska Omaha, College of Business Administration

Free tutoring in accounting, economics, finance, math (including MATH 1370), and statistics for UNO students. Available in-person at Mammel Hall and over Zoom. Drop-in hours and scheduled appointments Monday–Friday.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportNebraska Methodist College, Omaha, NE

Nebraska Methodist College — Free Online & Peer Tutoring

Nebraska Methodist College

Free online tutoring through NetTutor and free peer tutoring for all enrolled Nebraska Methodist College students. Particularly relevant for students pursuing nursing, healthcare, and allied health careers. Peer tutors recommended by faculty.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportOmaha, NE (check lfa-omaha.org for current locations)

Learning for ALL — Free Adult ESL, GED & Literacy Classes

Learning for ALL Omaha

Free classes and tutoring in English as a Second Language (ESL), Adult Basic Education, and GED preparation for adults in the Omaha community. Serves adults who need literacy and language skills to advance their education, careers, and daily lives. Critical resource for immigrant and refugee families in the metro.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic Support400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA

Council Bluffs Public Library — Free Homework Help Center

Council Bluffs Public Library

Free tutoring and homework help services for K-12 students through the Council Bluffs Public Library. One of the most accessible free academic support resources for students on the Iowa side of the metro who may not have transportation to Omaha-based programs.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportCouncil Bluffs, IA (and broader Iowa area)

Children & Families of Iowa — Low-Cost Tutoring for Working Families

Children & Families of Iowa

Affordable childcare and tutoring services for low-income working families in the Iowa area, including Council Bluffs. Designed specifically for families who need academic support options that fit limited budgets and working parent schedules.

Rolling / Open

MentorshipOmaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA (metro-wide)Official Source

7Sage — LSAT Prep (Law School Admissions Test)

7Sage

The LSAT is the required admissions exam for U.S. law schools. 7Sage is widely regarded as the top online LSAT prep platform. Includes a complete video curriculum, explanations for every official LSAT question ever released, performance analytics, adaptive drills, and full study plan tools. Live tier includes 60+ live classes per week plus an "Ask a Tutor" feature. Coach tier adds bi-monthly 1:1 sessions with 99th-percentile instructors. Testimonials of 25+ point score jumps. Multiple tiers for different budgets.

Rolling / Open

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands — Mentor Info Sessions (Omaha & Council Bluffs)

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands holds free quarterly mentor info sessions in Omaha and Council Bluffs, where prospective mentors learn about the program, hear from current mentors and staff, and begin the enrollment process. BBBS matches youth ages 6–18 with adult mentors through community-based and school-based programs. Serving as a Big Brother or Big Sister is valuable career experience for anyone interested in education, school counseling, social work, youth development, or nonprofit work — and BBBS specifically serves the Council Bluffs and metro Omaha area on both sides of the river.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipNational (Partner Colleges)Official Source

TheDream.US National Scholarship — DACA and Undocumented Students

TheDream.US

If you arrived in the United States before age 16 and before November 1, 2020, TheDream.US may cover your college costs. This is the largest private scholarship fund for undocumented and DACA-recipient students in the country — providing up to $100,000 over four years at a partner college (the "DREAMer's Opportunity Scholarship") or up to $33,000 over two years at a partner community college or two-year school. Awards vary by institution and program type. Council Bluffs and Omaha-area students attending a partner college are eligible. The application opens each fall for the following academic year — check thedream.us/scholarships for the current open cycle, partner college list, and specific award amounts. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have legal status. You need: proof of high school completion (diploma, GED, or HiSET), arrival documentation (before age 16, before November 1, 2020), and acceptance at a partner school.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha Metro / Council Bluffs (Likely)

Barrientos Scholarship Foundation — Latino Students in Greater Omaha Area

Barrientos Scholarship Foundation

The Barrientos Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $459,000 to Latino students in the Greater Omaha area since 2005. If you are a Latino/Hispanic student from Council Bluffs planning to attend a Nebraska college, university, community college, or trade/vocational school — you likely qualify. The foundation awards 60 scholarships of $1,000 each per cycle. One application. You need: proof of Latino heritage, a minimum 2.5 GPA, a personal essay (2+ pages), letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and FAFSA completion. Apply at barrientosscholarship.org/scholarships1. The 2026 cycle deadline is not published online — contact the foundation directly at info@barrientosscholarship.org or 402-215-5106 to confirm the deadline before applying. This is an Omaha-based organization whose geographic focus is "Greater Omaha area" — Council Bluffs has long been part of that definition for local organizations. CB-to-Nebraska-school students should apply.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipIowa (Community Colleges — IWCC Eligible)Gov. Database

Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship — Future Ready Iowa (Covers IWCC)

Iowa College Aid / Iowa Workforce Development / Future Ready Iowa

If you are heading to Iowa Western Community College for a career program — healthcare, skilled trades, IT, advanced manufacturing, or another high-demand field — the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship may cover whatever tuition and fees remain after your Pell Grant and other aid. It is called "last dollar" because it fills the final gap. For many students in qualifying programs, this makes community college essentially free. Iowa Western Community College is an eligible institution. Here is what you need to do: (1) File your FAFSA at studentaid.gov. (2) File the Iowa Financial Aid Application (IFAA) at educate.iowa.gov. (3) Apply to IWCC and enroll in a qualifying program. The scholarship is processed automatically based on your FAFSA and IFAA data — there is no separate application after those two steps. The deadline is rolling, but earlier is better. Program eligibility is tied to high-demand career fields designated by Iowa Workforce Development — contact IWCC Financial Aid at (712) 325-3200 to confirm your specific program qualifies.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha, NE (Nebraska Statewide)

Nebraska Career Scholarship — High-Demand Fields (Nebraska Residents, Up to $10,000/Year)

Nebraska Department of Economic Development / Nebraska Legislature

The Nebraska Career Scholarship is a state-funded scholarship for Nebraska residents pursuing degrees or credentials in high-demand career fields at qualifying Nebraska institutions. Awards can be up to $10,000 per year at NU system schools and Nebraska state colleges, making it one of the highest-value state scholarship programs in Nebraska. High-demand fields typically include healthcare, technology, skilled trades, engineering, and other workforce-priority areas. If you are a Nebraska resident from Omaha planning to attend UNO, UNL, or another qualifying Nebraska institution in a high-demand field, this scholarship represents a significant additional funding opportunity on top of federal aid and institution-specific merit awards. Contact the Nebraska Department of Economic Development or your institution's financial aid office for current eligible fields, application process, and deadlines. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: Nebraska Career Scholarship requires Nebraska residency. CB students (Iowa residents) are NOT eligible. Iowa equivalents: Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship (for Iowa CCs in high-demand programs — seeded in migration 023) and Future Ready Iowa apprenticeship programs.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmahaOfficial Source

OEA Foundation CTE Scholarships

OEA Foundation

Scholarships specifically for OPS seniors who have completed a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway and are pursuing a trade, vocational, or technical program. Recognizes students choosing skilled trades over a four-year degree.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipOmaha, NE (Multiple Campuses)

UNO S-STEM Scholarship — STEM Majors (Up to $15,000/Year)

University of Nebraska at Omaha / National Science Foundation

The UNO S-STEM Scholarship is funded by the National Science Foundation and provides up to $15,000 per year for students majoring in Mathematics, Computer Science, Biology, or Physics at UNO who demonstrate both financial need and academic potential. This is one of the highest-value individual scholarships at UNO and is specifically designed for STEM students who might not otherwise be able to afford college. The scholarship also includes cohort community building, mentorship, undergraduate research opportunities, and career preparation — designed to increase STEM retention and graduation rates. FAFSA must be on file to demonstrate financial need. Academic potential is assessed through GPA, test scores, and sometimes a short essay or recommendation. Apply through UNO Financial Aid or directly through the S-STEM program. Contact UNO's math, CS, biology, or physics departments for current application information. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: You are eligible. Pottawattamie County is in UNO's reciprocity zone — CB students in qualifying STEM majors with financial need should apply.

Rolling / Open

MCC Foundation Scholarships — One Application, $6 Million+ Available

Metropolitan Community College Foundation

The MCC Foundation manages more than $6 million in scholarship funds available to MCC students. One application at mccneb.awardspring.com considers you for every scholarship you are eligible for — you do not apply separately for each award. Awards cover every program area at MCC: healthcare, technology, culinary arts, automotive, welding, business, liberal arts, and more. If you are planning to attend MCC for any program, apply for Foundation scholarships as soon as the portal opens each cycle. Awards are highly competitive — the earlier you apply, the more scholarships you can still access. Most awards do not require a minimum GPA; some are need-based (requiring FAFSA), some are merit-based, and many are program-specific. Log in at mccneb.awardspring.com to see which scholarships currently match your profile. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: You CAN apply for MCC Foundation scholarships even as an out-of-state student. MCC is a Nebraska school, so Iowa residents (including CB students) pay out-of-state tuition — but scholarship eligibility is separate from tuition residency. An MCC Foundation scholarship can help offset the higher out-of-state tuition. Before enrolling at MCC as a CB student, calculate the full out-of-state tuition cost and what scholarships are available to you, and compare to Iowa Western Community College (IWCC) in Council Bluffs, where you would pay Iowa in-state tuition.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmahaOfficial Source

MetroMavs Partnership — MCC Side (Guaranteed Transfer to UNO)

Metropolitan Community College / University of Nebraska at Omaha

The MetroMavs Partnership is a formal agreement between MCC and UNO that creates a guaranteed pathway from an MCC Associate's degree to a UNO bachelor's degree. If you complete an Associate's degree at MCC with a qualifying GPA, you are guaranteed admission to UNO and receive scholarship support for your remaining undergraduate years. The strategy: start at MCC (lower cost), save money on your first two years, then transfer to UNO with your scholarship. Contact MCC's Transfer Services office for the current program terms, qualifying GPA, and eligible program areas. Contact UNO Transfer Admissions at (402) 554-3441 for the UNO-side scholarship details. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: If you are considering this pathway, be aware that MCC charges Iowa residents out-of-state tuition — calculate the full two-year MCC cost before committing. When you transfer to UNO, Pottawattamie County reciprocity gives you in-state rates at UNO. Compare the MCC start (out-of-state tuition for 2 years) + UNO transfer (in-state rates with scholarship) vs. starting at IWCC (in-state Iowa tuition) + transferring elsewhere. Run the full numbers with both financial aid offices.

Rolling / Open

Urban League of Nebraska Scholarships

Urban League of Nebraska

Annual college scholarships for graduating high school seniors in the Omaha area who want to attend a two- or four-year college or university. Awards recognize academic achievement and commitment to community.

Rolling / Open

Summer ProgramOmahaOfficial Source

AIM Institute Youth in Tech — Summer Code Camp

AIM Institute

Free technology learning experiences for students ages 7–17 at the Brain Exchange (Omaha) and through partner schools — including Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln in Council Bluffs. Summer Code Camp offers hands-on coding, robotics, and career exploration. AIM serves low-income students specifically and connects participants to high-wage, high-demand tech career pathways.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceIowa (Statewide — Online and In-Person)Official Source

ICAN — Iowa College Access Network (Free FAFSA and Scholarship Help)

ICAN — Iowa College Access Network

ICAN provides free college planning help for Iowa students — FAFSA filing, scholarship searching, college application support, and financial aid advising. If you are a Council Bluffs student who does not know where to start with the college financial aid process, ICAN is the place to start. Their website (icansucceed.org) includes a free Iowa-specific scholarship search tool that surfaces awards you may not find through national databases. ICAN advisors work with Iowa high schools and can help you understand which scholarships you qualify for, how to file the Iowa Financial Aid Application (IFAA), and how to compare financial aid award letters from different colleges. Services are free. If your school does not have an ICAN advisor on-site, you can access ICAN resources online at icansucceed.org. For FAFSA help specifically, EducationQuest (Omaha office, 888-357-6300) also provides free in-person assistance and serves both Nebraska and Iowa students.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NE (Multiple Locations)Official Source

EducationQuest — Free College Planning and FAFSA Help for Nebraska Students

EducationQuest Foundation

EducationQuest is a nonprofit organization providing free college planning services to Nebraska students and families — FAFSA assistance, scholarship searching, college planning workshops, and financial aid advising. If you are an Omaha student navigating the financial aid process and need help, EducationQuest is a free resource specifically for Nebraska residents. Call 1-888-357-6300 or visit educationquest.org to connect with an advisor. EducationQuest has helped hundreds of thousands of Nebraska students file their FAFSA correctly, find scholarships they qualify for, and understand their financial aid award letters. Their scholarship database is Nebraska-focused and surfaces awards that national databases miss. NOTE: EducationQuest's services are primarily for Nebraska residents. Iowa students (including Council Bluffs students) are served by ICAN (Iowa College Access Network at icansucceed.org — seeded in migration 023). Both are free. Both are valuable. Both Omaha and CB families should know which resource serves their state.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

IWCC Plumbing Technology — Vocational Training Program (Council Bluffs; Expansion Underway)

Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western Community College's Plumbing Technology program provides vocational plumbing training for Council Bluffs and Southwest Iowa residents at the Council Bluffs campus. The program covers residential and commercial plumbing systems, pipe fitting, fixture installation, drainage systems, and plumbing code compliance. Iowa has a separate plumbing licensing system from Nebraska — Iowa-side plumbers must be licensed under Iowa's plumbing and mechanical licensing requirements, which differ from Nebraska's Omaha Journeyman Plumber License. Training at IWCC in Council Bluffs is designed for students who will work and be licensed in Iowa, making it the more appropriate educational pathway for Pottawattamie County residents than commuting to MCC. IWCC's plumbing facilities are slated for expansion under the $55 million bond measure voters approved in November 2025 for a new Transportation & Trades building — meaning program capacity and facilities will improve significantly in the near future. Contact IWCC admissions at 712-325-3277 or admissions@iwcc.edu for current program details, credit requirements, and enrollment.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Werner HQ for orientation)Official Source

Werner Enterprises CDL Training — Student Driver Program (Paid Training + Tuition Reimbursement, Omaha HQ)

Werner Enterprises

Werner Enterprises is one of the largest trucking companies in the United States, and they are headquartered right here in Omaha. They run one of the most structured CDL training-to-employment pipelines in the industry, and it is worth knowing about whether you want to drive long-haul or just want the CDL. Here is how it works: You first attend an approved CDL-A school (Werner partners with about 800 schools across the country, including options near Omaha) to earn your CDL-A license — the school portion requires at least 160 hours of classroom and range training. After you graduate, you enroll in Werner's paid orientation and over-the-road (OTR) training program, which is based out of either their Omaha, Nebraska headquarters at 14507 Frontier Road or their Dallas, Texas facility. During this OTR training period, Werner pays you at least $650/week. After you are fully onboarded and running loads, Werner reimburses up to $15,000 of your CDL school tuition — paid out at $250/month while you are employed at Werner. First-year earning potential for Werner drivers is $45,000 or more. The trade-off: CDL school is not free upfront (Werner pays you back over time), and you are expected to stay with Werner for a period of time to receive the full reimbursement. This is a genuine earn-while-you-train pathway to a commercial driving career anchored by one of the most stable employers in the Omaha metro. Apply at werner.com/cdl-training or call 402-382-9557.

Rolling / Open

MCC Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training — State-Approved (HLTH 1200)

Metropolitan Community College

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is one of the fastest, most accessible entries into healthcare — and one of the most important healthcare roles in any community. CNAs provide direct patient care: helping residents with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, assisting nurses, and providing the human presence and dignity that makes long-term care work. MCC's CNA program (HLTH 1200) is state-approved by Nebraska's Health and Human Services Regulation and Licensure division. Completing the program and passing the Nebraska State Competency Evaluation earns you CNA certification — the entry credential for working in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies. CNA positions in Omaha start at $15–$20/hr. The CNA credential is also a recognized stepping stone toward LPN, RN, and higher nursing roles — many working nurses in Omaha started as CNAs while attending nursing school. Important note: dozens of Omaha-area nursing facilities also offer FREE employer-sponsored CNA training in exchange for a work commitment — these programs pay you while you train and cover your certification exam fee. If you cannot afford MCC tuition, ask any long-term care facility in Omaha whether they offer employer-sponsored CNA training. Contact MCC CNA coordinator Susan Lund at smlund8940@mccneb.edu for program details and start dates.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

MCC Phlebotomy Technician — NHA Certification (4 Months, $2,250 + Exam Fee)

Metropolitan Community College — Workforce Education

Phlebotomists are healthcare workers trained to draw blood from patients for lab tests, transfusions, donations, and research — a skill required in every hospital, clinic, doctor's office, and blood bank in the metro. MCC's Phlebotomy Technician program through its Workforce Education division is one of the most direct, fastest certification pathways available: four months, fully in-person, leading to the NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) credential — the nationally recognized certification that employers in this field require. Total cost is $2,250, which includes books and supplies. The NHA certification exam is an additional $117. This is not a tuition-based AAS program — it is a short, focused certification course offered through MCC's workforce division, which means financial aid eligibility may differ from credit-bearing programs. Verify current financial aid options directly with MCC Workforce Education. Phlebotomy is a meaningful entry point into the healthcare field: the work is skilled, the credential is recognized across the country, and the hospital and clinic systems of the Omaha metro (CHI Health, Methodist Health System, UNMC) consistently employ certified phlebotomists. Contact MCC Workforce Education at 531-MCC-2400 for current enrollment dates and financial options.

Rolling / Open

IWCC HVAC/R Technology Diploma — Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (Council Bluffs)

Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western Community College's HVAC/R Technology Diploma is the primary trades credential for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration careers for Council Bluffs and Southwest Iowa residents. This program is specifically designed for people who live on the Iowa side of the metro and want a shorter, more affordable path to HVAC/R employment than a four-year degree. The diploma is 42 credits, completed in three terms (two full semesters plus a summer term). Upon completion, you also earn the HVAC/R Maintenance Certificate, which can be earned as a standalone credential if you complete the certificate portion first. HVAC/R technicians are in severe shortage in this metro — the region is projected to need over 5,000 HVAC workers through the near term, and every new building, hospital expansion, and industrial facility requires HVAC installation and ongoing service. Iowa residents at IWCC pay $214 per credit hour — the total program cost is approximately $9,000 in tuition before financial aid. Iowa residents with financial need may qualify for Iowa's Education 2 Employment (E2E) program, which can reduce or eliminate tuition entirely. This is one of the most cost-effective paths to a skilled trade career available to Council Bluffs residents. Contact IWCC admissions at 712-325-3277 or admissions@iwcc.edu.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsCouncil Bluffs, IA (+ Clarinda + Harlan campuses)Official Source

IWCC Welding Technology — Certificate (1 Semester) & Diploma (Council Bluffs + Regional Campuses)

Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western's Welding Technology program is one of the most accessible vocational options for Council Bluffs and Southwest Iowa residents who want to enter the welding trade. The Certificate is 16.5 credits — completable in a single semester — which means you can enter the workforce with a credential faster than virtually any other skilled trade program. The full Welding Technology Diploma provides more comprehensive training for students who want deeper skill development. The program covers the four fundamental welding processes used across all sectors of industry: GMAW (MIG welding, the most common industrial process), SMAW (Stick welding, used in construction and maintenance), GTAW (TIG welding, the high-precision process used in aerospace, pipe, and specialty metals), and Oxy-Acetylene (cutting and brazing). A key advantage: IWCC's welding program is offered not only at the Council Bluffs main campus, but also at satellite locations in Clarinda and Harlan — which means Southwest Iowa residents who cannot easily commute to Council Bluffs may have a local option. Iowa residents pay $214/credit. The 16.5-credit certificate costs approximately $3,535 in tuition — one of the lowest-cost credentialed welding pathways in the metro. Iowa E2E may eliminate cost for eligible residents.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NEOfficial Source

Heartland Workforce Solutions — Free Job Training Funding (WIOA / Individual Training Account) for Omaha Area

Heartland Workforce Solutions

Heartland Workforce Solutions (HWS) is the organization that administers federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds for the Greater Omaha area. If you are an adult, recently laid off, or a young person (ages 14–24) who qualifies based on income or employment status, HWS can pay for your approved job training — including trades programs at Metropolitan Community College, registered apprenticeships, and other WIOA-eligible training programs. This is not a loan and not a scholarship you have to compete for. It is a federal program that provides Individual Training Accounts (ITAs) — essentially a grant specifically for workforce training — to eligible residents. If you have wanted to pursue HVAC training, welding certification, CDL licensing, CNA certification, electrical technology, or dozens of other programs and could not afford the cost, HWS is the first phone call to make. HWS operates two American Job Centers in Omaha: the main center at 5752 Ames Avenue (North Omaha) and a south location at 4425 S. 24th Street. Both are walk-in accessible Monday through Friday, 8am–5pm. MCC programs are co-located and directly partnered with HWS. If you are an Omaha or Douglas/Sarpy County Nebraska resident and cost has been the barrier between you and a trades credential — walk into HWS and ask about WIOA eligibility today.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

IowaWORKS Council Bluffs — Free Job Training Funding (WIOA) for Council Bluffs & Southwest Iowa Residents

Iowa Workforce Development — IowaWORKS Council Bluffs

IowaWORKS is Iowa's American Job Center system — the Iowa counterpart to Nebraska's Heartland Workforce Solutions. Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County, and Southwest Iowa residents who want to pursue trades training, apprenticeship programs, or vocational certifications should start here. IowaWORKS Council Bluffs administers federal WIOA funds for eligible residents, which can pay for approved training programs including Iowa Western Community College (IWCC) trades programs, registered apprenticeship preparation, and other WIOA-eligible training. If cost has been the barrier between you and a trades credential — and you are a Council Bluffs or Iowa-side resident — the IowaWORKS Council Bluffs office is your first stop. Services include: WIOA Individual Training Accounts for eligible adults and dislocated workers, youth employment programs, resume help, job search assistance, labor market information, and direct referrals to approved training providers including IWCC. The Council Bluffs office is located at the Omni Centré Business Mall, 300 West Broadway, Suite 13. Call 712-352-3480 or email CouncilBluffsIowaWORKS@iwd.iowa.gov.

Rolling / Open

Xenon Academy — NACCAS-Accredited Cosmetology Program (Omaha, Multiple Enrollment Dates)

Xenon Academy Omaha

Xenon Academy is a NACCAS-accredited cosmetology school with a campus in Omaha, Nebraska. NACCAS accreditation means the program is federally recognized, which enables eligibility for Pell Grants and federal student loans — a significant cost-reduction pathway for lower-income students. Xenon's Cosmetology program is approximately 14 months long. Tuition is $18,750 (2024–2025 published rate). Federal financial aid data from 2022 shows the average net price after aid at approximately $12,983 — meaning that for students who qualify for financial aid, the real out-of-pocket cost can be substantially lower than the sticker price. Enrollment dates at Xenon Academy Omaha run in January, March, June, August, and October — five enrollment windows per year, which is more flexible than Capitol Beauty School's fewer annual starts. If you are exploring cosmetology as a licensed trade career in Omaha and want multiple options to compare, Xenon Academy and Capitol Beauty School are the two primary NACCAS-accredited programs in the metro. Cosmetology is a portable license — completing a Nebraska program and passing the Nebraska State Board exam earns you a credential that can transfer to other states through licensure endorsement. Contact Xenon Academy Omaha at 402-718-9853 or xenonacademy.net/omaha-nebraska/ for current tuition, financial aid, and enrollment dates.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramOmaha, NE (embedded in 10 partner high schools)Official Source

Creighton University TRIO Classic Upward Bound — Free College Prep for Omaha HS Students

Creighton University TRIO Upward Bound Programs

Creighton University's TRIO Classic Upward Bound Program is a federally funded, completely free college preparation program for Omaha metropolitan area high school students who are first-generation (neither parent has a 4-year college degree) and/or low-income. The program is designed to help students develop the academic skills and personal confidence needed to finish high school and be admitted to a four-year university. Upward Bound at Creighton provides: weekly tutoring in math, science, English, and foreign language; college planning advising and mentoring; SAT/ACT preparation; campus visits to colleges across Nebraska and the region; cultural activities and community service opportunities; and a six-week residential summer academy where students live on Creighton's campus, take college-level courses, and experience what college life looks like firsthand. Rising 8th graders (entering 9th grade in the fall) may apply during the spring semester. This program has changed thousands of lives in Omaha. If you are a first-generation or low-income high school student in the Omaha metro, Creighton's Upward Bound is one of the most important free resources available to you.

Rolling / Open

College Possible Omaha — Free Multi-Year College Coaching (10 Omaha High Schools)

College Possible Omaha

College Possible is a national college access organization with a strong Omaha presence — one of the most important free college coaching programs in the metro. Since 2011, College Possible Omaha has provided free, personalized college coaching to over 3,570 students. The program is embedded directly in 10 Omaha-area high schools, beginning with students in their junior year of high school. College Possible coaches help students find the right college, navigate the admissions process, secure financial aid with as little debt as possible, and stay enrolled and on track through degree completion — providing 6+ years of support from junior year of high school through college graduation. The program serves students from low-income backgrounds at no cost whatsoever — no fees, no applications costs, no strings attached. Students who are eligible for Dell Scholars or other college access scholarships may gain additional resources through College Possible's national partnerships. The 10 Omaha-area high schools served are: Bellevue East, Benson, Central, Millard South, North, Northwest Magnet, Papillion-La Vista, Ralston, South Magnet, and Westview. Students at these schools should ask their school counselor how to connect with their College Possible coach. College Possible students are 30% more likely to enroll in college after high school and 3x more likely to earn a bachelor's degree than peers from similar backgrounds.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA (metro-wide school delivery)Official Source

Junior Achievement of the Midlands — JA Finance Park, JA BizTown & Career Programs

Junior Achievement of the Midlands

Junior Achievement of the Midlands (JA Midlands) delivers in-school financial literacy, career exploration, and entrepreneurship programs to students across the Omaha metro area — including Council Bluffs schools — through a network of volunteer business educators. JA programs are school-based and free to participating students. Key programs include: JA BizTown (grades 4–6) — a hands-on simulated town where students run banks, restaurants, and stores; JA Finance Park (grades 7–9) — a realistic personal finance simulation where students create personal budgets and make real-world financial decisions; and JA Inspire (high school) — career exploration connecting students with local employers, industry professionals, and career pathway information. JA Finance Park is arguably the most impactful financial literacy program available to middle school students in the Omaha metro — it teaches budgeting, net income vs. gross income, housing costs, transportation costs, insurance, and savings in a hands-on way that students remember. Spanish language support is available for JA BizTown. Schools request JA programs through JA Midlands — students participate through their school. JA also hosts the JA Inspire career exploration event open to high school students from the metro.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NEOfficial Source

Job Corps Omaha — Free Residential Trades Training for Low-Income Youth Ages 16–24

U.S. Department of Labor — Job Corps

Job Corps is a federally funded, completely free residential education and job training program for young people ages 16–24 who come from low-income backgrounds. It is one of the most consequential free programs available to young people in the Omaha metro who face significant barriers to education and career entry — and it is dramatically underutilized because not enough people know about it. Here is what "free and residential" means: Job Corps provides housing, meals, healthcare, and a living allowance in addition to the training itself. You do not need to pay for anything. The Omaha Job Corps Center is located at 4521 Leavenworth Street. Job Corps nationally offers training across ten industries including Construction, Transportation (including CDL), Advanced Manufacturing, and Health Care — the core trades and vocational sectors covered in this phase. The specific trades programs offered at the Omaha center require direct verification because programs vary by center and change over time. To find out exactly what trades training is currently available at the Omaha center and whether you are eligible, call the Job Corps national line at 1-800-733-JOBS (1-800-733-5627) or visit enroll.jobcorps.gov. If you are a young person, 16–24, from a low-income household, and you do not know what you want to do or how to afford training — this is the conversation to have.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmaha, NEOfficial Source

Goodwill Omaha — YouthBuild: Construction Pre-Apprenticeship + GED Completion (Free, Ages 16–24)

Goodwill Industries of Greater Omaha

Goodwill Omaha's YouthBuild program is one of the most important free resources in this city for young people who have left school without a diploma and want a real path into the trades. YouthBuild is a nationally recognized model that combines two things that are usually kept separate: academic credential completion (GED or high school diploma) and real construction trades pre-apprenticeship training — in the same program, at the same time, for free. Participants build actual houses for low-income and homeless individuals. The construction work is the training. By the time you finish, you have both your academic credential and hands-on construction experience that can open the door to a registered apprenticeship with IBEW, the Carpenters, the Laborers, or other union trades. The program runs Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm. It is designed for at-risk youth ages 16–24 who do not have a high school diploma. The program is free. This is not a community service program — it is a career-building program that takes the most significant structural barrier that keeps young people out of the trades (no diploma + no experience) and eliminates both at once. Contact Goodwill Omaha for current enrollment and intake information.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipRemote (National — local chapter required)Official Source

P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education — Up to $3,000 (Women, Chapter-Sponsored)

P.E.O. International

Rolling / Open

UNCF Scholarship Portal — 400+ Scholarships for African American Students

United Negro College Fund (UNCF)

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) administers more than 400 scholarships through a single unified portal at uncf.org/scholarships. Students create one profile and are automatically matched and considered for multiple UNCF-administered scholarships simultaneously. Individual awards range from $500 to $7,500 or more, with some corporate-partnered scholarships reaching higher amounts. Most awards require a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrated financial need, though requirements vary by fund. Many awards are open to students at any accredited institution (not just HBCUs). Deadlines are rolling throughout the year — each scholarship fund has its own deadline. The most important action is to create a UNCF profile at uncf.org/scholarships and keep it active as scholarships open and close throughout the year. UNCF has helped more than 500,000 students earn college degrees. Omaha and Council Bluffs African American students are strongly encouraged to create a UNCF profile and apply to all matching scholarships. This is one of the most efficient scholarship search tools available for African American students — one profile, hundreds of opportunities.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipCouncil Bluffs, IA / Pottawattamie County

UNCF Scholarship Portal — 400+ Scholarships for African American Students

United Negro College Fund (UNCF)

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha, NE

Aksarben Foundation Scholarships — Nebraska & Western Iowa Students

Aksarben Foundation

The Aksarben Foundation administers multiple scholarship programs for Nebraska and western Iowa (including Council Bluffs / Pottawattamie County) students beyond the Horatio Alger award. The Aksarben general scholarship pool awards $1,000–$5,000 per year to students pursuing higher education at Nebraska or Iowa accredited institutions. Scholarship categories vary by year and may include general merit/need awards, women in STEM awards, and field-of-study specific awards. Some Aksarben scholarships are partnered with corporate sponsors. The Aksarben Foundation also administers a paid internship program that places Nebraska and western Iowa college students with Omaha-area employers in STEM and business fields — a parallel opportunity worth investigating at aksarben.org. Deadlines for the general Aksarben scholarship pool are typically in February–March. Aksarben has been a cornerstone of Nebraska civic and educational life since 1895 — the name is Nebraska spelled backwards. Council Bluffs students are explicitly named in Aksarben's western Iowa eligibility. Visit aksarben.org/scholarships-and-internships for current scholarship opportunities and deadlines.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Community Foundation — Southwest Iowa Scholarship Funds (Check Status)

Omaha Community Foundation (Iowa Affiliates)

The Omaha Community Foundation is not just for Omaha. Its Iowa Affiliates program explicitly covers Pottawattamie County and has a dedicated Southwest Iowa Scholarships page at omahafoundation.org/iowa-affiliates/southwest-iowa-scholarships. Multiple scholarship funds within this program are specifically for Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County students. The main 2026 universal application deadline was February 15, 2026 — that cycle has closed. However: some individual fund deadlines may extend beyond the universal deadline. Go to omahafoundation.org/iowa-affiliates/southwest-iowa-scholarships to check whether any Council Bluffs-specific funds are still accepting applications. If all 2026 funds are closed, bookmark this page and apply through the universal application when it opens in October 2026 for the 2026–2027 academic year. The universal application matches you to all funds you are eligible for — you apply once and the system finds every scholarship you qualify for. Awards range from $2,000 to $20,000 depending on the individual fund.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipCouncil Bluffs, IA / Iowa (statewide)Official Source

Iowa National Guard Tuition Benefit (NGIB) — 100% Tuition at Iowa Public Colleges for Guard Members

Iowa National Guard / Iowa College Aid

Iowa National Guard members can receive up to 100% of tuition at Iowa public colleges and universities through the Iowa National Guard Tuition Benefit (NGIB) program, administered in coordination with Iowa College Aid. The NGIB covers Iowa Western Community College (IWCC) in Council Bluffs — making this a particularly strong pathway for Council Bluffs students who want to serve part-time while earning a college degree close to home. Eligible institutions include IWCC, University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, and other Iowa public 2-year and 4-year institutions. Combined with federal Tuition Assistance available to Guard members, IWCC Council Bluffs tuition can often be covered at near-zero cost. The program requires enlistment in the Iowa Army National Guard or Iowa Air National Guard and maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Iowa Guard members should also explore the Iowa National Guard ISEP (Iowa Student Ed Prep) and the Iowa National Guard Student Loan Repayment program. For Council Bluffs residents who want to serve locally, the Iowa Army National Guard has units in Council Bluffs and the surrounding metro area.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

UNO Goodrich Scholarship Program — Learning Community & Advising Support

University of Nebraska Omaha — Goodrich Scholarship Program

The UNO Goodrich Scholarship Program — established by the Nebraska Legislature in 1972 — is far more than a scholarship. It is a comprehensive college success program built around an intentional learning community that provides every Goodrich Scholar with holistic support from enrollment through graduation. The program includes: the MavEd core curriculum (a structured academic and life skills sequence), academic advising by dedicated Goodrich faculty advisors, peer mentoring through the Goodrich Organization (GO!), connections to professional internships and employer partners, and ongoing community engagement with organizations like Partnership 4 Kids and Big Brothers Big Sisters. The 85% graduation rate — far above national averages for low-income and first-generation students — is the direct result of this community-first model. Goodrich Scholars are any Nebraska resident with financial need and academic merit; there is no income cutoff that disqualifies you from the scholarship component, and the learning community benefits every Scholar equally. Any Nebraska resident attending UNO who wants to be part of this community should apply. Application for the scholarship (and learning community access) opens October 1 of each year. Visit goodrich.smapply.org to apply.

Rolling / Open

MCC Welding Technology — AAS Degree & AWS Certification Pathways (GMAW, GTAW, Pipe, SMAW)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's Welding Technology program is one of the most comprehensive welding education programs in the Omaha metro, covering the four primary welding processes used in industry — GMAW (MIG welding), GTAW (TIG welding), SMAW (Stick welding), and Pipe Welding — plus structural and manufacturing welding specializations. The program leads to an AAS degree and career certificates. MCC's welding curriculum is designed around American Welding Society (AWS) certification standards — completing the program prepares you for AWS certification testing, which is the industry credential that unlocks higher-wage welding positions and specialized work in aerospace, pressure vessels, and structural steel. Welders with pipe welding certification and AWS credentials in Omaha can earn $28–$50/hr depending on specialization and employer. The manufacturing sector in this metro employs welders across a wide range of industries. This program is financial aid eligible — Pell Grant and FAFSA funds can be applied. Contact program coordinator Chris Beaty at 531-622-4663 for program details, schedules, and advising.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

MCC Diesel Technology — AAS Degree (Diesel Service & Heavy Equipment Tracks)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's Diesel Technology program prepares technicians for the commercial truck, heavy equipment, and agricultural equipment industries — one of the highest-demand segments of the skilled trades market nationwide, and particularly relevant in Omaha given the city's position as a logistics and transportation hub. The AAS program offers two specialization tracks: Diesel Service (focused on commercial trucks, fleet maintenance, and Class 6–8 vehicles) and Heavy Equipment (focused on construction and earthmoving equipment). A shorter Diesel Truck Career Certificate is also available for faster entry into the workforce. MCC's Diesel program offers access to Kubota Technology training and certification. Diesel technicians are among the highest-paid non-degree trades workers — commercial truck technicians in Omaha can start at $22–$28/hr and advance to $40+/hr with specialized certifications and experience. The program is financial aid eligible. Contact program coordinator Scott Resler at 531-622-5803 for current program details, schedules, and tracks.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

IWCC Electrical Technology — Certificate & Diploma (Council Bluffs)

Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western Community College offers Electrical Technology training in both Certificate and Diploma formats at the Council Bluffs campus. The program covers residential and commercial electrical systems, wiring methods, National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance, motor controls, and industrial electrical theory. For Council Bluffs and Southwest Iowa residents who want foundational electrical training without commuting to Omaha, IWCC's Electrical Technology program provides the technical education needed to enter the electrical field or prepare for a union apprenticeship. Iowa residents pay $214/credit at IWCC — a meaningful cost advantage over Nebraska institution tuition for Pottawattamie County residents. The certificate provides a faster entry point; the diploma provides more comprehensive training. Contact IWCC admissions at 712-325-3277 or admissions@iwcc.edu for current program details, credit requirements, and start dates.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipAmes, IA

Iowa State University — George Washington Carver Scholastic Leadership Award (Full Tuition)

Iowa State University Office of Admissions

The George Washington Carver Scholastic Leadership Award is one of Iowa State University's most prestigious and competitive scholarships — covering full Iowa in-state tuition for exceptional student leaders. Named for George Washington Carver (who attended ISU), this award is specifically for students with strong academic records and demonstrated leadership, with a focus on underrepresented student groups. A separate competitive application is required. Recipients participate in a cohort leadership experience and have access to dedicated support resources. Full in-state tuition at ISU is approximately $9,500-$10,000/year (verify current rate) — making this a scholarship worth approximately $38,000-$40,000 over four years. Apply by the Carver application deadline — this is typically earlier than the general March 1 admission deadline (verify exact date at iastate.edu). COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: You are Iowa residents and fully eligible. The Carver Award has historically been particularly accessible to CB students because Iowa residency is inherent to the award. If you are a CB student from an underrepresented background with strong academics and leadership, this scholarship is worth a focused application. STACKING: Carver Award recipients do NOT also receive automatic merit tier awards (Loyal/Forever/True Scholar). Carver replaces them — it is a higher award.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipCouncil Bluffs, IA

Pottawattamie Promise — Full-Ride Scholarship at Iowa Western (Verify Status)

Iowa West Foundation / Peter Kiewit Foundation / Iowa Western Community College

IMPORTANT: The 2026 application deadline for Pottawattamie Promise has likely passed (historically March 1), and the iwcc.edu/promise page is currently returning a 404 error. If you are a Pottawattamie County student planning to attend Iowa Western, call IWCC Financial Aid immediately at (712) 325-3200 to ask whether any 2026 slots remain or whether a late application is possible. Do not assume it is closed until you have spoken with a financial aid counselor directly. What this scholarship is: a last-dollar scholarship covering 100% of tuition, fees, and books at Iowa Western for up to two years — everything not already covered by the Pell Grant and other scholarships. Estimated total value: $16,000+. It also includes individual support and guidance through the enrollment process. If you missed 2026, set a calendar reminder for February 2027 to apply for the next cycle. This is the most generous local scholarship available to IWCC-bound Pottawattamie County students.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipOmaha, NE (NU System — Statewide)

Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship — Nebraska Residents, NU System

Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation

The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship is one of the most significant private scholarship programs available to Nebraska residents — providing substantial financial support to students attending University of Nebraska system institutions (UNO, UNL, UNK, UNMC). The scholarship is need-based and highly competitive, designed to make NU system schools accessible to Nebraska students who face the greatest financial barriers. Award amounts are significant — verify the current award amount at buffettscholarships.org. This is a named scholarship administered in partnership with the NU system schools; application process and deadlines are coordinated through each campus's financial aid office. If you are a Nebraska resident with significant financial need attending or planning to attend UNO or another NU system school, this scholarship is worth applying for through your campus financial aid office. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: This scholarship requires Nebraska residency. As Iowa residents, CB students are NOT eligible for the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship. CB students at UNO (who pay in-state tuition through reciprocity) should contact UNO Financial Aid at (402) 554-2327 to explore what need-based institutional aid is available to reciprocity-zone students.

Rolling / Open

Creighton University Institutional Need-Based Grant

Creighton University Office of Financial Aid

Creighton University awards institutional grant dollars based on demonstrated financial need — separate from and on top of any merit scholarship. Filing your FAFSA is how you access this aid. Creighton meets a significant portion of demonstrated need through a combination of federal Pell Grant, federal loans, work-study, and Creighton institutional grant dollars. If your family has financial need, do not assume Creighton's $47,000+/year tuition is out of reach — the actual out-of-pocket cost varies significantly based on your FAFSA data and your merit scholarship level. The net price calculator at creighton.edu will give you a preliminary estimate of your expected cost. IMPORTANT: To receive Creighton institutional grant aid, you must file your FAFSA annually, on time. The federal FAFSA priority deadline and Creighton's internal aid process both affect your grant amount. Council Bluffs students are equally eligible for need-based institutional aid — being an Iowa resident does not affect FAFSA-based Creighton institutional grants.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipCedar Falls, IA

Susan T. Buffett Foundation Scholarship (Nebraska Residents — NU System)

Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation / University of Nebraska System

The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship is one of the most significant private scholarship awards available to Nebraska residents attending University of Nebraska system schools (UNO, UNL, UNK, UNMC). It is a major need-based award for Nebraska residents with demonstrated financial need. The scholarship is highly competitive and represents a substantial commitment to keeping college accessible for Nebraska students who could not otherwise afford it. Apply through your NU system school's financial aid office — application process and deadlines are coordinated through each campus. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: This scholarship requires Nebraska residency. As Iowa residents, Council Bluffs students are NOT eligible for the Susan T. Buffett Foundation Scholarship. Even though CB students pay in-state tuition at UNO through the reciprocity agreement, the Buffett Scholarship is limited to Nebraska residents. If you are a CB student with significant financial need attending UNO, look at UNO's other need-based institutional aid, the Goodrich Scholarship Program, and federal aid (FAFSA-based).

Rolling / Open

UNI Inspire Award — Need-Based ($1,000/Year, Stacks with Merit Awards)

University of Northern Iowa Student Financial Aid

The UNI Inspire Award provides $1,000 per year to admitted UNI students who demonstrate financial need through FAFSA. It is awarded automatically — no separate application beyond your FAFSA. The Inspire Award is renewable for up to four years as long as you maintain enrollment and continue to demonstrate need through annual FAFSA filing. CRITICAL STACKING ADVANTAGE: The Inspire Award stacks with UNI's admission-based merit awards. A Council Bluffs student with financial need could receive all of the following simultaneously: Panther Impact Award ($1,000-$4,000/year) + Presidential Scholarship ($4,000/year, if selected) + Inspire Award ($1,000/year) = up to $9,000/year total. This stacking combination is unique and powerful — making UNI one of the most financially accessible options for CB students with a combination of academic merit and financial need. File your FAFSA and the Iowa Financial Aid Application (IFAA) at educate.iowa.gov by April 1 to maximize all Iowa-related aid alongside the Inspire Award.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramAmes, IA (Iowa State University)

Iowa State University — OneApp Scholarship Portal (Check Spring Deadlines)

Iowa State University Office of Student Financial Aid

If you are planning to attend Iowa State University in fall 2026, the scholarship work is not over yet. ISU's OneApp portal (scholarships.iastate.edu) is the single application for hundreds of ISU scholarships — departmental awards, college-based scholarships, and special interest funds. While the main automatic merit consideration deadline (tied to your admission application) has passed, many departmental and college-specific scholarships have spring deadlines that run through March, April, and May 2026. Log in to the OneApp portal now, check which scholarships are still open, and apply. You will also want to make sure your FAFSA is on file and your Iowa Financial Aid Application (IFAA) is submitted at educate.iowa.gov — ISU financial aid packages include both federal and Iowa state aid. If you have questions, contact ISU Student Financial Aid at (515) 294-2223. Council Bluffs students attending ISU pay Iowa in-state tuition and are eligible for the same awards as any Iowa resident.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

MCC HVAC/R Technology — AAS Degree & Certificates (EPA 608, Refrigeration, Heating)

Metropolitan Community College

Metropolitan Community College's HVAC/R Technology program trains heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technicians for one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the country. There is a nationwide shortage of qualified HVAC/R technicians, and the Omaha metro is no exception — every commercial building, every hospital, every school, and every data center in this city depends on people who can install, diagnose, and repair these systems. MCC's program leads to an AAS degree and career certificates, and includes the coursework needed to pass the EPA 608 refrigerant handling certification (required by federal law to work with refrigerants commercially). The program covers residential and commercial heating systems, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, controls and electrical systems, and EPA compliance. Entry-level HVAC/R technicians in Omaha start at approximately $17–$20/hr; experienced technicians with EPA certification and 5+ years of experience routinely earn $30–$45/hr. MCC's HVAC/R program is financial aid eligible — meaning you can use Pell Grants, FAFSA, and Nebraska Opportunity Grant funds to reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket cost. Contact program coordinator Chris Pitschmann at 531-622-2101 or cpitschmann@mccneb.edu for program details, start dates, and advising.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (Fort Omaha Campus)Official Source

MCC Plumbing Apprenticeship Program — AAS Degree & Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate (Evening)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is designed to be taken alongside full-time work — the program runs in the evenings specifically so that students can work on plumbing job sites during the day and attend class at night, which is the traditional apprenticeship model. All instructors in MCC's plumbing program are licensed journeyman or master plumbers — real tradespeople teaching real trade skills. The four-year AAS program provides the related technical instruction (RTI) component of a full plumbing apprenticeship. Completing the program and accumulating the required on-the-job training hours puts you on the path to the Omaha Journeyman Plumber License. MCC also offers a shorter Plumbing Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate for students who want to build foundational skills before entering a full apprenticeship program. Plumbing is one of the most durable and recession-resistant trades: pipes exist in every structure ever built, they require maintenance, and they cannot be outsourced. Licensed journeyman plumbers in Omaha earn $25–$45/hr. The program is financial aid eligible. Contact Luke Littleton at 531-MCC-4756 for current program details, start dates, and prerequisites.

Rolling / Open

MentorshipOmaha, NEOfficial Source

Capitol Beauty School — NACCAS-Accredited Cosmetology Program (Omaha, Founded 1923)

Capitol Beauty School

Cosmetology is a licensed trade. To work as a professional cosmetologist in Nebraska — to cut, color, style, and chemically treat hair in a salon — you need to complete an approved cosmetology program and pass the Nebraska State Board exam. Capitol Beauty School has been training licensed cosmetologists in Omaha since 1923. It is one of the oldest vocational training institutions in the metro and is accredited by NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences), the recognized accreditor for cosmetology schools. That accreditation matters: it makes the program eligible for federal financial aid (Pell Grant, student loans), which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. The Cosmetology program is 1,800 clock hours, delivered at 35 hours per week Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4pm — completing in approximately 44 weeks (roughly 10–11 months). Program cost is $20,500 in tuition plus a $1,350 kit, for a total of approximately $22,850 (including a $1,000 enrollment deposit). Capitol Beauty also offers an Esthetics (skin care) program as a separate track. As of early 2026, start dates for 2026 are full and waitlisted. 2027 start dates are available: February 8, April 19, June 28, September 7, and November 15. If you are planning ahead for a cosmetology career, book a 2027 date now. Financial aid is available to reduce the cost — contact Capitol Beauty at 402-333-3329 to discuss financial aid options.

Rolling / Open

100 Black Men of Omaha — Leadership Mentoring Academy (Free, Grades 9–12)

100 Black Men of Omaha, Inc.

100 Black Men of Omaha, Inc. is the only organization in Omaha that ensures young Black men are specifically mentored by Black men — providing crucial representation alongside the mentoring relationship. Founded in 1995, the organization operates several youth programs with the Leadership Mentoring Academy (LMA) as its flagship. The LMA serves young men in grades 9–12 and focuses on goal setting, positive decision-making, career exploration, high school graduation planning, and post-secondary education readiness. The results speak: the LMA has had a 100% graduation rate since 2008, and 85% of LMA graduates attend post-secondary educational institutions. During the 2024-25 year, 100 Black Men of Omaha impacted 1,040 youth across the Omaha community. Additional programs include the Saturday Academy for younger students, financial literacy programming, and the African American History Challenge. The LMA is free and serves young Black men in the Omaha metro. If you are a young Black man in Omaha looking for mentors who look like you and who will walk with you from high school through college — this is the program. Apply at 100blackmenomaha.org or visit their SHARE Omaha page.

Rolling / Open

MentorshipOmaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA (school-based metro-wide)Official Source

Nebraska Methodist College TRIO Upward Bound Math-Science — Benson High School Students

Nebraska Methodist College TRIO Programs

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) hosts a federally funded TRIO Upward Bound Math-Science program specifically serving 60 students at Benson High School in Omaha. This completely free STEM-focused college preparation program helps first-generation and low-income Benson students develop strong math and science foundations and pursue college degrees and careers in STEM fields. The program combines tutoring, advising, and mentoring with dedicated STEM enrichment — strengthening math and science skills with the specific goal of encouraging Benson students to pursue and complete four-year degrees in STEM. NMC received a grant renewal for this program, confirming its continued operation. NMC's healthcare system connections mean Benson UBMS students get exceptional exposure to health science careers. Benson High School students who are first-gen or low-income with any interest in science, math, or healthcare should apply.

Rolling / Open

TeamMates Mentoring Program — Free School-Based Mentoring (Omaha & Council Bluffs)

TeamMates Mentoring Program

TeamMates Mentoring Program is Nebraska's premier school-based mentoring organization, founded by Tom and Nancy Osborne (former Nebraska Cornhuskers football coach and Athletic Director). TeamMates pairs students in grades 3–12 with a caring adult volunteer mentor who meets with them one hour per week at school during the academic year. Mentors help students identify their strengths, set goals, and develop a sense of hope, purpose, and vision for their future. The program is completely free, school-based (meetings happen on school grounds during the school day or before/after school), and requires no transportation from students or families. TeamMates operates in Omaha Public Schools, Millard Public Schools, and Council Bluffs Community Schools — among many other Nebraska and Iowa districts. The Council Bluffs Community Schools has a dedicated TeamMates District Coordinator, confirming active CB participation. Students who want a mentor can apply through their school's TeamMates chapter — contact your school counselor or principal to find out if your school participates. If your school does not currently have a TeamMates chapter, contact teammates.org to start one. This is one of the most impactful free mentoring resources in the metro.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (17 locations)Official Source

Completely KIDS — Free After-School Programs & Teen Leadership (17 Omaha Sites)

Completely KIDS

Completely KIDS provides free and low-cost after-school and summer programs for children ages 4–17 at its headquarters (25th and St. Mary's Avenue) and 16 additional locations throughout Omaha — making it one of the most geographically distributed youth development organizations in the metro. For older teens, Completely KIDS offers dedicated Teen Leadership and Workforce Development programming alongside the core academic support services. Programs include homework help and academic enrichment, STEM and reading programs, healthy meals, nature and gardening programs, behavioral health services, swimming lessons, and structured leadership development. The Teen Leadership and Workforce Development track is particularly relevant for high school students thinking about college and career readiness — it builds exactly the soft skills, personal organization, and goal-setting foundations that mentors and college access programs reinforce. Completely KIDS serves 2,000 children ages 4–17 with critical services after school and throughout the summer. The program operates in OPS school areas (South, North, and Central Omaha). Fees are low-cost or free depending on family income.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportOnline (OPL library card required)Official Source

Omaha Public Library — Tutor.com (Free Live Online Tutoring)

Omaha Public Library / Tutor.com

Free live online tutoring available 9am–9pm daily with a free OPL library card. Covers K-12 subjects, writing review, math support, and ACT/SAT/AP test prep. Students can also submit papers and math questions asynchronously for written feedback anytime. LearningExpress Library included — full-length practice tests, tutorials, and college and career prep resources. One of the highest-impact free academic resources in the metro.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceCouncil Bluffs, IA / Iowa (statewide)Official Source

ICAN — Iowa College Access Network: Free FAFSA Help & College Planning (Iowa / Council Bluffs)

ICAN — Iowa College Access Network

ICAN (Iowa College Access Network) is Iowa's statewide college access organization — the Iowa counterpart to Nebraska's EducationQuest Foundation. ICAN provides FREE college access counseling, FAFSA completion assistance, and financial aid guidance to Iowa students and families, including Council Bluffs students and families. ICAN offers one-on-one counseling appointments (in-person and virtual), FAFSA completion workshops, college campus visit coordination, scholarship search assistance, and financial aid award letter comparison. Spanish-language services are available. Council Bluffs is in Pottawattamie County, Iowa — ICAN serves students throughout Iowa including the Council Bluffs metro area. For Council Bluffs families navigating Iowa state aid (Iowa Tuition Grant, Iowa Voc-Tech Grant, Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship, Iowa Grant), ICAN counselors are especially valuable because they specialize in Iowa-specific aid programs. All services are free. Students can access ICAN online at icanoccupy.org or request an appointment by phone or email.

Rolling / Open

Tutoring & Academic SupportMultiple MCC campus locations, Omaha metro

Metropolitan Community College — Free Learning & Tutoring Center

Metropolitan Community College

Free academic assistance across all subjects for enrolled MCC students. Staff includes specialists in reading, writing, math, ESL, and subject-specific support. Bilingual staff available in Spanish. Multiple campus locations across the Omaha metro. Particularly valuable for first-generation and ESL students navigating college-level coursework.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipCouncil Bluffs, IA

IWCC Healthcare Program Scholarships — Nursing, Allied Health, EMT, Medical Assisting

Iowa Western Community College / IWCC Foundation

Iowa Western Community College offers nursing, EMT/paramedic, medical assisting, dental assisting, and other allied health programs. The IWCC Foundation has scholarship funds specifically for students in healthcare programs — accessed through the same single application portal at iwcc.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com. Healthcare is one of the highest-demand career fields in the Council Bluffs and Omaha metro — and completing a healthcare program at IWCC can lead directly to employment in a field with strong wages and job security. ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY: Healthcare programs at IWCC may qualify for the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship (Future Ready Iowa) — a state program that covers remaining tuition and fees after federal grants for students in qualifying high-demand career fields. Contact IWCC Financial Aid at (712) 325-3200 to confirm your program qualifies for the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship. Combining Iowa Last-Dollar with FAFSA and IWCC Foundation scholarships may make a healthcare program at IWCC essentially cost-free for qualifying students. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: You are fully eligible as Iowa residents. Healthcare programs at your local community college, supported by state last-dollar funding — this is a high-value pathway.

Rolling / Open

ESL Omaha — Free English Classes (No ID Required)

ESL Omaha

Free English as a Second Language classes at six levels — beginner through advanced — at 10845 Harney St, Omaha. Evening classes run Tuesday nights (all adults welcome). Daytime classes run Thursday mornings (women only). No paperwork, no documentation, no ID required. Limited childcare available during class. Current session runs through May 2026.

Rolling / Open

Youth Emergency Services (YES) — Shelter & Support for Homeless Youth

Youth Emergency Services

The only organization in the Omaha metro solely focused on youth homelessness — serving young people since 1974. YES provides a comprehensive continuum of care for youth and young adults ages 16–25: a 24/7 staffed Emergency Shelter, the Transitional Living Program (apartment-style housing for up to 18 months for ages 16–21), a Maternity Group Home (for pregnant and parenting youth ages 16–21), and the Drop-In Center at 2602 Harney Street offering food, clothing, showers, laundry, and connections to services for anyone ages 16–25. Street Outreach meets unsheltered young people where they are and connects them to the Drop-In Center and shelter.

Rolling / Open

NeighborWorks Home Solutions — Free Homebuyer Education & Counseling

NeighborWorks Home Solutions

HUD-approved housing counseling and homebuyer education in the Omaha metro. Offers comprehensive financial and homeownership counseling to prepare first-time buyers for long-term success, plus ongoing support for existing homeowners. Partners with the City of Council Bluffs Community Development Department on the Infill Homebuyer New Construction Program, which provides down payment and closing cost assistance to qualifying Council Bluffs buyers (homebuyer education required to participate). Free homebuyer education classes and counseling appointments available through their Family Housing Advisory Services partner at (402) 934-7921. Main office: (402) 451-2939.

Rolling / Open

Free ResourceOmahaFombra Verified

Metro Transit Omaha — Bus System, Fares & Half-Fare Program

Metro Transit (City of Omaha)

Omaha's public bus transit system with routes throughout the metro area. Current fares: Adult $1.25/ride or $55/month unlimited pass. Half-fare program ($0.60/ride, $27.50/month) available for Medicare cardholders, people with disabilities, and qualifying seniors — complete a half-fare application at ometro.com to receive a photo ID card. K–12 students ride FREE at all times. Express routes: $1.50/ride. Downtown Green Route: $0.25. Transfers: $0.25. Pay with cash, Umo smart card, or the Umo contactless app. Route maps and trip planning at ometro.com. Metro also partners with MCC, UNO, Creighton, and other institutions for transit benefits.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Public Library — Free Computers, Internet & Technology Access

Omaha Public Library

All 12 Omaha Public Library branches provide free public computers, high-speed internet, and printing. Do Space technology programs — formerly an independent technology library, now managed by OPL since January 1, 2026 — are housed at the Abrahams Branch with expanded services coming to the new Central Library (opening April 19, 2026). Do Space distributed free laptops, hotspots, and one year of home internet access to 945 Omaha residents as part of its Tech Pack Program. Branches also offer digital literacy classes through DigitalLearn and technology help from staff. Free Wi-Fi available at all branch locations. An Omaha Public Library card (free to all Douglas County residents) also unlocks LinkedIn Learning, LearningExpress, and other online career tools.

Rolling / Open

Cox Connect2Compete — $9.95/Month Internet for Low-Income Families

Cox Communications

Low-cost home internet for income-eligible households with at least one K–12 student. Provides up to 100 Mbps with Wi-Fi modem rental included for $9.95/month in the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro area (Cox service area). No credit check required. Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in June 2024. Cox Connect2Compete is one of the primary remaining low-cost home internet programs for families with school-age children. Households without K–12 students may qualify for Cox ConnectAssist at $30/month. Apply online or call 855-222-3252.

Rolling / Open

Heartland Family Service — Financial Stability Programs

Heartland Family Service

Heartland Family Service (HFS) has served the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro for 150 years, offering financial stability programs including credit counseling, foreclosure prevention counseling, and homebuyer education. Services are available on a sliding fee scale based on income, with most services free or very low-cost for low-income households. HFS serves over 140,000 people annually from 20 locations in eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa, making it one of the largest human services organizations in the region. Accepts Medicaid and Medicare.

Rolling / Open

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska — Omaha Behavioral Health & Social Services

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska operates a social services and behavioral health office in Omaha, providing drug and alcohol counseling, individual and family counseling, and youth prevention services. The Ponca Department of Social Services focuses on improving the lives of tribal members and their families, with special emphasis on children, youth, and elders. Behavioral health services are available in Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Niobrara, and Sioux City (IA).

Rolling / Open

MCC Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) — Certificate of Achievement (Nebraska EMS Board Approved)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC's EMT program prepares students for certification as Emergency Medical Technicians — the trained first responders who staff ambulances, fire department EMS units, and emergency departments across the Omaha metro. This is the base credential for emergency medical services careers, a demanding field that requires genuine competence under pressure and the satisfaction of knowing that your work directly saves lives. The MCC program is approved by the Nebraska State Board of Emergency Medical Services. The curriculum covers: 110 hours of didactic (classroom) instruction, 55 hours of hands-on lab skills, and 12 hours of clinical experience in actual emergency settings. Completing the program qualifies you to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam, which is the national certification required for EMT employment. EMT certification is also the prerequisite for Paramedic training — MCC offers a separate Paramedicine program for students who want to advance beyond EMT. Starting wages for EMTs in Omaha are approximately $16–$22/hr depending on employer. Omaha Fire Department, American Medical Response (AMR), and numerous hospital-based EMS systems hire EMTs in this metro. This program is financial aid eligible. Contact Craig Jacobus at 531-622-3004 for current schedule and enrollment.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopOmaha

Omaha Emerging Developers — Monthly Meetup

Omaha Emerging Developers

Omaha Emerging Developers is a monthly meetup designed specifically for recent university and coding school graduates, self-taught programmers, and anyone new to software development. Meetings are held monthly at Agape Red and provide a welcoming, low-pressure environment to network, learn, and grow alongside other people who are in the early stages of their tech careers. Unlike more advanced technical meetups, Omaha Emerging Developers focuses on career navigation, job search strategies, first-job experiences, and foundational technical skills. Free to attend.

Rolling / Open

1 Million Cups Omaha — Weekly Entrepreneur Meetup

Nebraska Startup Academy

1 Million Cups (1MC) is a free weekly program designed to educate, engage, and connect entrepreneurs. Omaha's 1MC meets every Wednesday morning at 8:30 AM at The Ashton Building at Millwork Commons, where local founders present their businesses to a supportive community of peers, mentors, and advisors — who provide real-time feedback and connections. Free coffee is served at 8:00 AM, with presentations beginning at 8:25 AM. Events are free and open to the public — attend whether you want to present your idea, support a founder, or simply learn from others. The Omaha chapter is organized by the Nebraska Startup Academy. A January 21, 2026 event was confirmed.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopBellevueOfficial Source

Neale Woods Millard Observatory — Public Stargazing Events

Fontenelle Forest

The Millard Observatory at Neale Woods is the largest telescope in the Omaha metro area, housed in a 600-acre woodland preserve in North Omaha. Fontenelle Forest hosts public stargazing events where naturalists use the observatory telescope to show visitors the moon, planets, and star clusters — explaining what they're seeing in plain language. Admission to the stargazing event is separate from regular Neale Woods access. The preserve itself features 7 miles of walking trails along the Missouri River. A December 2025 evening event was confirmed.

Rolling / Open

Fontenelle Forest — Guided Hikes, Night Hikes & Science Programs

Fontenelle Forest

Fontenelle Forest is 2,100 acres of old-growth forest, bluffs, and floodplain 15 minutes south of downtown Omaha in Bellevue — one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Naturalists lead regular guided programs including daytime hikes, night hikes (exploring the forest in darkness with a guide), full moon hikes, and Solstice and Equinox events. The Raptor Woodland Refuge houses birds of prey year-round. The ADA-accessible boardwalk allows wheelchair access to the forest interior. Free admission available through the Omaha Public Library Discovery Pass — check out a pass at any of 12 OPL locations.

Rolling / Open

OPL Discovery Pass — Free Museum & Nature Access with Your Library Card

Omaha Public Library

The Omaha Public Library's Discovery Pass program lets you check out free admission passes to 12+ cultural and science venues in the metro — including the Kiewit Luminarium, Fontenelle Forest, the Durham Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, and the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Reserve a pass online at omahalibrary.org or pick one up at any of the 12 OPL branch locations. All you need is a valid Omaha Public Library card, which is free for Douglas County residents. Each pass covers multiple people per visit — check each venue's specific pass terms. A single library card unlocks free access to most of Omaha's major science and nature destinations.

Rolling / Open

WorkshopOmahaCommunity Org

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts — Free Galleries & Public Programs

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Always free admission. The Bemis Center in Omaha's Old Market hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by local, national, and international artists working in painting, sculpture, video, installation, performance, and experimental forms. Public programming includes ARTalks — conversations with artists and panel discussions open to anyone — open studios where you can watch international resident artists at work inside the building, film screenings, and performances. Artists from around the world live and work here; the public is invited to engage with them and their work.

Rolling / Open

Vocal Fry — Monthly Spoken Word Open Mic at The Union

Nebraska Poetry Society / The Union for Contemporary Art

Vocal Fry is a monthly spoken word and poetry open mic at The Shirley Tyree Theater inside The Union for Contemporary Art in North Omaha. Co-hosted by the Nebraska Poetry Society and The Union, it runs every third Thursday of the month — doors open at 6 PM for sign-ups, performances start at 7 PM. Poets, storytellers, and spoken word artists of all levels are invited to sign up at the door. No experience required. Some performers are regulars; others are stepping to a mic for the first time. Either way, the room is welcoming. Free to attend and perform.

Rolling / Open

Omaha Community Playhouse — Open Auditions & Community Volunteer Programs

Omaha Community Playhouse

The nation's largest community theater — and the actors on stage are community volunteers. Omaha Community Playhouse runs 10+ productions per year, and they hold open auditions for every show. Anyone can audition: submit an online form and a photo, show up on one of two or three audition dates per production, and read for a part. No professional experience required. The Playhouse also uses more than 2,000 community volunteers annually in technical, backstage, costume, and front-of-house roles. If you've ever wanted to be part of making a live production — on stage or behind it — this is how you do it.

Rolling / Open

Networking & CommunityOmaha, NE (new Central Library location, April 2026)Official Source

EducationQuest: Free College Planning

EducationQuest Foundation

Free college planning services for Nebraska students and families — including help completing the FAFSA, understanding financial aid, college application support, and need-based scholarship programs. Offered in English and Spanish.

Rolling / Open

Do Space — Free Digital Skills and Community Technology Center

Do Space (Omaha Public Library)

Do Space is a free technology library and community learning center now operated by Omaha Public Library. It provides free access to computers, 3D printers, recording equipment, VR hardware, and maker tools — alongside free classes and workshops on digital skills, coding, design, and career readiness. Do Space is relocating to a new Central Library location in April 2026. No membership fee — completely free and open to the public. Do Space serves as an equalizer: anyone without home internet, a quality computer, or money for training can access professional-grade tools and learning at no cost.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipNebraska (statewide)

MCC CDL-A Truck Driving — Commercial Driver's License Class A Preparation (Day & Evening)

Metropolitan Community College

MCC offers CDL-A (Commercial Driver's License, Class A) preparation training — the license required to operate 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, flatbeds, tankers, and virtually every large commercial vehicle. Omaha is one of the most important logistics hubs in the United States, home to Werner Enterprises (one of the largest trucking companies in the country), Union Pacific Railroad, and a massive regional distribution sector. CDL-A drivers in Omaha are in acute demand, and qualified drivers can command $55,000–$85,000+/yr with the right employer and endorsements. MCC offers both day and evening schedule options. Before enrolling, you must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, complete a DOT physical, and pass a drug screen — these are federal requirements, not just MCC requirements. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL in Nebraska (21+ for interstate commercial driving). The program is financial aid eligible. Contact Kitty Lillethorup at 531-622-5827 for current schedule, cost, and enrollment requirements.

Rolling / Open

Nebraska Nurses Foundation Scholarship — Nebraska Nursing Students

Nebraska Nurses Foundation / Nebraska Nurses Association

The Nebraska Nurses Foundation (NNF), affiliated with the Nebraska Nurses Association, awards scholarships to Nebraska nursing students pursuing their initial RN licensure (LPN-to-RN bridge, ADN, or BSN programs) or advancing their nursing education (BSN-to-MSN, DNP). Award amounts typically range from $500–$2,000, with multiple scholarships awarded per cycle. The application deadline is typically in March or April for the following academic year. Priority is given to Nebraska residents enrolled in Nebraska nursing programs, though some awards consider Iowa residents enrolled in Nebraska nursing programs (IWCC students completing nursing at partnering NE institutions may qualify). Nebraska is experiencing significant nursing shortages — these scholarships are designed to support the pipeline of new nurses into the state's healthcare system. Students should also check with their specific nursing program (MCC, UNO, Nebraska Methodist College, Clarkson College) for institution-specific nursing scholarships in addition to NNF awards. Visit nebraskanurses.org for current scholarship opportunities and application instructions.

Rolling / Open

ScholarshipCouncil Bluffs, IAOfficial Source

STARS Scholarship — Council Bluffs Schools Foundation

Council Bluffs Schools Foundation / Iowa West Foundation

Up to $3,500 per year for custodial parents going back to school. This scholarship covers the costs that the Pell Grant does not: books, fees, uniforms, equipment, computers, transportation, and child care. If you are a parent raising a child on your own and you want to go back to school — this is for you. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with no single published deadline. Start with an inquiry at cbsf.org/stars-scholarship. You will need to be Pell Grant eligible (complete your FAFSA first), a Pottawattamie County resident, a U.S. citizen, and enrolling full-time. Contact the STARS office at stars@cbsf.org or (712) 322-8941 to get started.

Rolling / Open

UNO MetroMavs Partnership Scholarship — MCC to UNO Transfer Pathway

University of Nebraska at Omaha / Metropolitan Community College

The MetroMavs Partnership is a formal scholarship and guaranteed transfer agreement between Metropolitan Community College (MCC) in Omaha and UNO. If you complete an Associate's degree at MCC with a qualifying GPA, you are guaranteed admission to UNO AND receive a scholarship to support your continuation. This pathway is designed for students who want to start at a community college (lower cost, closer to home) and then transfer to UNO for a four-year degree. The financial value of starting at MCC (lower tuition) plus the MetroMavs scholarship at UNO can make the combined cost of a four-year degree significantly lower than attending UNO directly for all four years. Contact MCC's transfer services office and UNO's transfer admissions office to get the current scholarship amount, GPA requirements, and eligible MCC programs. COUNCIL BLUFFS STUDENTS: If you start at MCC, you will pay out-of-state tuition at MCC (Iowa resident + Nebraska community college = out-of-state rates). However, when you transfer to UNO, Pottawattamie County reciprocity applies and you pay in-state rates. The MetroMavs scholarship applies at the UNO side of the transfer. Run the numbers — it may still be financially advantageous depending on your situation.

Rolling / Open

Institutional ScholarshipLincoln, NE

Creighton University School of Law — Free Pre-Law Info Sessions

Creighton University School of Law

Creighton Law offers free pre-law faculty information sessions on select Tuesdays at 3:00 PM at its campus in Omaha. Attendees can meet faculty and current law students, take a tour of the law school, sit in on a class, and speak one-on-one with admissions staff about the path to law school — including application requirements, LSAT prep, and financial aid. Open to anyone considering law school; you do not need to be a Creighton undergraduate to attend. Creighton School of Law is one of only two ABA-accredited law schools in Nebraska and a primary feeder to the regional legal market in Omaha and Council Bluffs.

Rolling / Open

University of Nebraska–Lincoln — Emerging Scholars Award (First-Gen / Need-Based)

University of Nebraska–Lincoln Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid

The UNL Emerging Scholars Award is targeted at first-generation college students and students with demonstrated financial need (typically Pell Grant-eligible). This award is designed to supplement FAFSA-based financial aid packaging and make UNL more accessible for students from lower-income backgrounds. Students do not need to submit a separate application — eligibility is determined through the FAFSA and UNL's institutional aid process. First-generation students (neither parent holds a 4-year college degree) are given priority consideration. The award is renewable with continued enrollment and FAFSA filing. If you are a first-generation or low-income student considering UNL, filing your FAFSA as early as possible (ideally by October 1) maximizes your institutional aid consideration. Iowa and Council Bluffs students are eligible — verify current award amounts and any residency considerations at financialaid.unl.edu.

Rolling / Open

InternshipOmahaOfficial Source

UNO IS&T Summer High School Internship

University of Nebraska at Omaha — College of IS&T

Hands-on summer internship working alongside UNO professors and graduate students in research areas including robotics, bioinformatics, software engineering, cybersecurity, and Unity game development. Students work 20 hours per week on campus.

Rolling / Open

Heartland Workforce Solutions Youth Services

Heartland Workforce Solutions

Free career and job training services for youth and young adults in the Greater Omaha area. Connects participants with job opportunities, job skills training, resume help, and career pathway planning.

Rolling / Open

Big Brothers Big Sisters — MentorU Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands

One-on-one mentoring program pairing high school students with adult volunteer mentors at select Omaha and Council Bluffs high schools. Mentors meet weekly online and in person throughout the school year.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramCouncil BluffsFombra Verified

Urban League Whitney Young Academy

Urban League of Nebraska

Youth development program that prepares young people with communication skills, decision-making, mentorship, and community service. Part of the Urban League's broader education and empowerment programs for Omaha youth.

Rolling / Open

Avenue Scholars Southwest Iowa — Career Pathway Program

Avenue Scholars Southwest Iowa

Council Bluffs-based career coaching and internship program for low-income and first-generation high school students in Southwest Iowa. Career coaches are embedded in partner high schools — including Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln — to guide students from school into high-demand, high-wage careers. Includes paid 8–10 week internships and certificate or associate degree planning.

Rolling / Open

OJEATC Electrical Apprenticeship Program

Omaha Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Committee

Earn-while-you-learn electrical apprenticeship in partnership with IBEW Local 22. Three tracks available: Inside Wireman (commercial/industrial), Telecommunications, and Residential. The Construction Wireman entry-level track is a four-year program starting at $14/hr and progressing to $22/hr. No prior experience required — training provided.

Rolling / Open

MCC Career Academy — Free Trades & Tech Training

Metropolitan Community College

Free college-level career training for Nebraska high school juniors and seniors. 20+ programs offered including Welding, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Construction, Diesel Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Culinary Arts, Nursing Assistant, and Digital Technology. Students earn college credit before graduation — up to 54 credit hours in a two-year track. Tuition is waived for Nebraska high schoolers; students pay only for tools and materials.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramCouncil Bluffs

Partnership 4 Kids — College & Career Mentoring

Partnership 4 Kids

Year-round mentoring and postsecondary support for students in 16 Omaha Public Schools from elementary through high school. High school students explore career interests, build financial literacy, and access college readiness support. The organization provides last-dollar-in scholarships to help members complete post-secondary education debt-free. 90% of participants come from low-income households.

Rolling / Open

Youth Leadership Council Bluffs — 9-Month Leadership Program

Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce

Youth Leadership Council Bluffs (YLCB) is an intensive, 9-month leadership development experience produced by the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce. The program runs September through May and immerses participants in sessions covering local government, economics, healthcare, education, community development, and leadership skills. Students and young adults gain exposure to community leaders across sectors, develop civic awareness, and build a lasting professional network in the Council Bluffs area. Applications typically open in spring. The program is designed for high school students and emerging young leaders in the Pottawattamie County area.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (metro-wide)Official Source

United Way of the Midlands — Emerging Leaders (Volunteer & Nonprofit Career Pathway)

United Way of the Midlands

Emerging Leaders is a free program for professionals under 40 in the Omaha metro who want to give back through volunteerism, advocacy, and community engagement. The 600+ member network volunteers with JAG Nebraska (mentoring high school students on career readiness), participates in Day of Caring and Shine Bright volunteer events, and receives invitations to professional development programming and special events. For anyone exploring nonprofit careers, social impact work, community organizing, or philanthropic careers, Emerging Leaders provides direct exposure to the sector and relationships with established nonprofit professionals.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (DJ's Dugout, Miracle Hills area)Official Source

Project Harmony — Child Advocacy Center Volunteer Program

Project Harmony

Project Harmony is the Omaha metro's child advocacy center, providing response, treatment, and prevention services for children impacted by abuse and neglect. Volunteers support the organization's multidisciplinary work and gain exposure to child welfare case management, forensic interviewing, trauma-informed services, and the coordination between law enforcement, child protective services, medical staff, and mental health professionals. Project Harmony also hosts 400+ professional trainings per year for educators, medical staff, law enforcement, and social workers — some of which are open to community members. Meaningful career exposure for social work, counseling, law, and child welfare fields.

Rolling / Open

DC402 — Omaha Cybersecurity & Hacker Meetup (Free, Monthly)

DC402 / DEF CON 402

DC402 is Omaha's local cybersecurity and ethical hacker community, affiliated with DEF CON — the world's largest hacker conference. The group meets every second Tuesday of the month at DJ's Dugout in the Miracle Hills area. Meetings are free, informal, and cover security topics, CTF (Capture the Flag) challenges, hardware hacking, IoT security, and other technical discussions. An active Slack channel supplements the monthly meetups. DC402 community members also co-organize Kernelcon, Omaha's annual regional security conference. For anyone exploring careers in cybersecurity, penetration testing, security research, or IT security, DC402 is the free, welcoming, no-credential-required entry point into Omaha's security community.

Rolling / Open

Community Events & ClubsOmaha, NE (serves Nebraska + Iowa)Official Source

Ironworkers Local 21 — Structural & Reinforcing Steel Apprenticeship (Nebraska + Iowa)

Iron Workers International Local 21

Ironworkers Local 21 is one of the most compelling apprenticeship opportunities in the entire Omaha/Council Bluffs metro — and one of the few union apprenticeships that explicitly covers both Nebraska and Iowa. If you have ever looked at a building going up, a bridge being constructed, or a stadium being built and wondered who puts the steel together — that is an ironworker. Local 21 apprentices earn $23.50/hr starting pay (65% of journeyman scale) from the first day on the job. Every six months, your wage increases. By the time you complete the four-year program, you hold a journeyman ironworker card recognized across the country. The program requires 204 hours of classroom instruction per year alongside full-time fieldwork. You do not need any prior construction experience. You need to be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, pass a drug screen, have reliable transportation, and be physically capable of working at height. The application is available online — there is no paper-only requirement. This program explicitly covers Omaha, Nebraska, Iowa (including Council Bluffs), and South Dakota. If you are a Council Bluffs or Omaha area resident who wants a physically demanding, well-paid, career-defining trade — Local 21 is worth your full attention.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramCouncil BluffsOfficial Source

Iowa Western Adult Learning Center — GED, HiSET & ESL

Iowa Western Community College

Free adult education classes at Iowa Western's Adult Learning Center in the Omni Centre, Council Bluffs. Programs include GED/HiSET exam preparation, English as a Second Language (ESL) at multiple levels, and adult basic education. Classes run Monday–Friday with extended hours. A $25 registration fee is due at enrollment and is valid through June 30.

Rolling / Open

MentorshipCouncil BluffsOfficial Source

Iowa Western Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Iowa Western Community College SBDC

The Iowa Western Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free, confidential one-on-one business advising to entrepreneurs and small business owners in southwest Iowa and the Council Bluffs area. Advisors help with business planning, financial projections, loan preparation, marketing, and connecting clients to funding. The SBDC also hosts monthly lunch-and-learn workshops on business topics. Funded by the SBA and Iowa Western Community College.

Rolling / Open

College Access ProgramIowa City, IA (University of Iowa)

University of Iowa — AcademicWorks Scholarship Portal (Check Spring Deadlines)

University of Iowa Student Financial Aid

If you are planning to attend the University of Iowa in fall 2026, the AcademicWorks portal (uiowa.academicworks.com) is where you find and apply for UI scholarships. Hundreds of scholarships are available — merit, need-based, departmental, and identity-based — and Iowa residents have access to Iowa-preference awards that out-of-state students do not. While the main priority scholarship deadlines were earlier in the year, departmental and college-level awards often have spring deadlines in March, April, and even May. Log in to uiowa.academicworks.com now using your UI account (or create one if admitted), see which scholarships are currently open, and apply. Council Bluffs students attending the University of Iowa pay Iowa in-state tuition. Make sure your FAFSA and Iowa Financial Aid Application (IFAA) are both filed at educate.iowa.gov — your UI financial aid package includes Iowa state grants for which the IFAA is required. Contact UI Student Financial Aid at (319) 335-1450 for a personalized aid review.

Rolling / Open