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The Foundry Community exists to support, educate, and develop the Nebraska purpose-driven community.

  • Nonprofit Members

    100+

  • Nonprofits Served

    240+

  • Impact Hours

    6,500+

  • Students Served

    70+

WHAT WE OFFER

 

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

 

TESTIMONIALS

 

“Intern Foundry equipped me with the education, professional leadership skills, and something even more valuable - a vision for Nebraska's future. Through purpose-driven work, the program helped me move from a potential brain drain statistic to a community catalyst. I found my voice testifying before state legislators, built confidence mentoring peers, and discovered that staying in Nebraska isn't limiting; it's where I can lead the most meaningful change. Intern Foundry taught me that reversing brain drain starts with leaders who choose to stay, build, and inspire others to do the same.” 

— Livia Ziskey, Spring 2024 and Summer 2025 Intern Foundry Student

"The Intern Foundry program has been so important to OutNebraska. The process is so supportive and each student we've worked with has been highly motivated to add to our work,"

— Abbi Swatsworth, Executive Director, OutNebraska

"We love officing within The Foundry. The community connections are invaluable, the IF internship program has been incredibly beneficial to our organization, and the leadership provided by Julie is inspiring.  The Foundry team ensures that we are equipped with the tools and space to bring our mission to life and make an impact with our community."

— Tiffani Childress, Linked2Literacy

“One of the most important things I learned through the Intern Foundry program was how to blaze my own trail...I’m so grateful to the Foundry for helping me build that foundation.”

— Drew Baldridge, 2023 intern and 2024 coordinator

"The first meeting with [Base Camp Foundry] , I explained what my frustrations were, and they gave me the perspective shift I needed to make everything make sense. It was a relief because I was so close to getting there and I was stuck. Their help has re-positioned me to continue better prepared and better equipped."

— Base Camp Client

February 9, 2026

14 Altruistic Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Happy (almost) Valentine’s Day! Over the weekend we celebrate the love we share for our significant others, our families and our friends. Whether you’re single, dating or married, you can give the most romantic Valentine’s Day gift by giving back to your community. Check out 14 altruistic ways to celebrate this special day.

1. Send a love letter. This Valentine’s Day, spread the love by sending a love letter… not just to your partner, but to other people and organizations in your life that you value. Tell them why they matter, what they mean to you, and how much you love them.

2. Run a charity race. Many organizations local and national sponsor Valentine’s Day races to raise money. Get in shape and give back at the same time by signing up to run for love.

3. Spread some (animal) love. Animals need love too this Valentine’s Day. Check out your local animal shelter to see if any volunteers are needed, or just spend some time loving the animals in need. Who knows? You may even find one to fall in love with and take home.

4. Buy organic. Love the environment by making Earth-conscious choices this week and for the future. If you’re buying flowers for your sweet honey-bun, try buying fresh organic at your local market. Not only will you love the Earth a little more, but you also support the community.

5. Donate blood. January may have been National Blood Donor Month, but that doesn’t mean the love has to stop there. Donate at a local or national drive to really get your heart pumping.

6. Choose fair-trade. Buying fair-trade goods not only ensures great quality for your Valentine, but also helps support small business owners. Whether it’s chocolate, jewelry or a Valentine’s card, you’d be surprised at the things you can find in the world of fair-trade.

7. Remember our military. This Valentine’s day, don’t forget to remember our military men and women serving overseas who aren’t able to spend the day with loved ones. Send a package, letter or goods their way to show them you care.

8. Help your neighbor. One easy way to show love this week is to help a neighbor or community member in need. A little effort goes a long way to show you care.

9. Date for charity. Are you single this Valentine’s Day, but still looking for that special someone? Get involved and find a local speed-dating for charity event in your community to meet your potential love and help give back.

10. Clean your closet. Start spring cleaning early by going through your closet now and donate unnecessary items to those in need this Valentine’s Day.

11. Support disaster relief. With so many struggles around our nation, show you care this week by finding a cause to support disaster relief needs in your community and beyond.

12. Give a meal away. Staying in on Valentine’s Day? Why not double your efforts and put together a meal to donate to a local foodbank? Not only will you enjoy your night in, but you can be sure you made someone else’s night even more special.

13. Volunteer locally. Want to really wow your significant other with a date night? Volunteer together for a local cause to show your love for each other and the community.

14. Donate your date night. Finally, go all out for Valentine’s Day this year and donate your date night. Take the money you would have spent on a night out and give back to your favorite organizations to see the impact you can make.

This Valentine’s Day, give love to others by living an altruistic lifestyle and giving back. Try out some of these Valentine’s Day tips to truly see love blossom in your life.