"The Connection" is more than a name. It's a way of living. We're one thread in a wide web of community interconnectedness.
Members of one church come in on Fridays with dessert and friendship. Another couple comes for game nights twice a month. They've been coming for over a year and know names, faces, life stories.
The North Platte Police Department brings people who they have found in need. Then they respond immediately when needed to ensure that we have a safe, secure environment for our clients.
Service clubs raise funds and carry out projects on behalf of our clients.
The Nebraska Homeless Assistance Fund and United Way support us generously.
A counselor donates her time to meet with groups and individuals.
Our board of directors, coming from all walks of life, donate countless hours to ensure fnancial accountability, widespread promotion, effective programs, competent staffing and resource development.
The list is endless because the groups that touch us are endless. School kids, church groups, businesses, social service agencies, state agencies, federal agencies, individuals, families, scouts, healthcare facilities....
It's not a one-way street. We insist that any resident who can work be actively looking for work or maintaining employment. We also provide a central location for people looking for day laborers to do spot jobs. And when someone needs a volunteer, we can almost always find one.
Our residents are responsible for monitoring the recycle bins and picking up trash along the hike and bike trail on the south side of North Platte. People have commented on how clean the trails are looking. Now you know why.
Much of the maintenance and repair work at the shelter is done by our residents. All are required to "do a chore," but many go way beyond that to relentlessly clean, sort, organize and touch up.
Ongoing classes upgrade skills and remind our residents of important qualities in their lives. Financial responsibility. Insurance. Job hunting. Identity theft. Relationships. Integrity. And more.
So when you think of The Connection, think of the connections.