PAST OMAHA NEWS LINKS

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24th and Lake Revitalization Takes Another Step Forward
$100,000 Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts
http://www.cityofomaha.org/mayor/mayors-office-home/archives/2590
The North Omaha Village Revitalization participants and supporters include neighborhood residents, neighborhood associations, community organizations, educational institutions, businesses, churches and faith-based institutions, and other stakeholders. Key partners include the Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Empowerment Network, Mayor Jim Suttle’s Office, City of Omaha, a collaborative group of elected officials in North Omaha, Omaha Housing Authority, NIFA, philanthropic supporters, Schemmer Associates, and H3 Studio. The community-based vision and plan was approved by the Planning Board and City Council in July 2011.

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North Omaha Revitalization - Moving Forward
Wise Planning for the Future
Omaha World-Herald Editorial on Progress in North Omaha
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120926/NEWS0802/709269976

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Groundbreaking for new $12.2 Million development in North Omaha

Great news for North Omaha. $12 Million Dollar Fair Deal Urban District breaks ground.. The first major development - single family housing - market rate and affordable, arts and culture gallery, and senior housing - in the North Omaha Village Zone Revitalization Plan. Congratulations to Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Michael Maroney and team. http://www.omaha.com/article/20120914/MONEY/709159999/1685#north-omaha-s...

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Summit on Building Stronger Police and Community Relations:
Held on Saturday, October 13, 2012

Preliminary Summary and Initial Ideas, Issues and Solutions:

Audience:
Gender: 51% Female. 49% Male.
Age: 11% 19 to 29, 25% 30 to 44, 38% 45 to 59, 26% 60 and Older.
32% Live and Work in North Omaha, 21% Live in North Omaha, 24% Work in North Omaha, 23% Neither. (77% of Participants Live, Work, or Live and Work in North Omaha)

95% Registered to Vote: 98% Plan to Vote.

Top Community Priorities: 1. Employment & Entrepreneurship 2. Education and Youth Development. 3. Violence, Crime & Incarceration 4. Housing & Neighborhood Development

In the past five years, police community relations are: 41% Better, 41% Same, 18% Worse.

I feel safe in North Omaha: 65% Agree, 19% Neutral, 16% Disagree

I trust the police: 63% Agree, 17% Neutral, 20% Disagree

The community can do more to help prevent and solve violence: 96% Agree!

Issues that must be addressed to help build stronger relationships: 1. Address racial profiling/stopping innocent people 2. Address attitudes/disrespect towards residents 3. Acknowledge that historic relationships still create lack of trust 4. Address problem officers, complaint and discipline process. 5. Officers should spend more time out of car and in the neighborhoods.

Initial Solutions to Build Stronger Relationships and Trust: 1. Educate/Train police on better ways to interact with the community 2. Educate community on how to interact with the police 3. Citizens Review Council 4. Consistent meetings with Police and Community to discuss issues and solutions 5. Residents and community must get more involved in helping the police

Community Policing in Action in Omaha: Involvement and Engagement in the Community; Partnership with Neighborhoods; Participation in Community Meetings; Problem Resolution Teams; Removing Illegal Guns; Use of Technology and Data; Partnership with Schools and Community Organizations; Police Outreach Events - Safe Night Out, Fun in the Sun, Fall Festival, etc.; Citizen Academies/Precinct Advisory & Neighborhood Watch; Community Events Partnerships and Support

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Summer 2012

Thank you to all of our partners and supporters. Major projects launched or completed over the past two months:

Launched Step-Up Omaha and summer jobs partnerships with Mayor Jim Suttle, City of Omaha, Councilman Ben Gray, State Senator Council and 20+ partners creating over 600 summer jobs;

Hosted our five year anniversary with over 400 participants;

Partnered with UNO on the Gandhi Symposium;

Partnered with Revive! Omaha Magazine to produce a 60 page special edition;

Co-hosted two weeks of employability training for youth;

Facilitating a corporate explorer camp for high school students in partnership with ConAgra focused on STEM, Leadership, and building a career pipeline;

Partnered with the NAACP and others on major Juneteenth events and activities including the Parade, Gospel and Jazz at 24th and Lake and An Evening with the Tuskegee Airmen;

Working with regional and national organizations to expand Network strategies to other urban communities;

And, we continue to press forward on the 7 Step Empowerment plan. Working together we can make great things happen! UNITE & TRANSFORM!

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5 YEAR EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE A BIG SUCCESS
Thank you to the 400+ leaders and residents that participated in our 5th Anniversary Empowerment Conference, Luncheon and Celebration. It was an incredibly inspiring event with one of the largest and most diverse audiences that we've ever hosted. George Fraser and Dr. john powell, two internationally-renowned keynote speakers, delivered powerful, insightful, and challenging presentations. Each of them also took time to tell the Empowerment Network and collaborative partners that what's happening here in Omaha is very rare and does not exist in most urban communities. They both communicated to the group that we are on the cutting edge with a model that will have national implications.

Panels were loaded with local experts and change makers. The response and feedback from those in attendance has been overwhelmingly positive. Thank you to all of our partners and supporters. It's time to Unite & Transform! We will continue working together to transform Omaha into a GREAT city, thriving and prosperous, in every zip code and neighborhood.

Coverage of the Events: (Thank you to KETV Ch. 7 and KMTV 3 for covering the event)
KETV Ch. 7
http://www.ketv.com/news/local-news/Empowerment-Network-celebrates-5-yea...

http://www.kmtv.com/news/local/151822585.html

STEP-UP OMAHA!
Summer Training, Employment Pathway, and Urban Pipeline
Bridging the Employment Gap by Investing in Tomorrow’s Workforce

UPDATES AS OF May 7, 2012

The application process for Step-Up Omaha has now closed. Over 900 applications were received. Applicants will receive communication within the next three weeks.

THANK YOU!
More than 20 companies have made financial and/or job contributions totally $400,000 in the last month. In addition to the City of Omaha, the sponsors include American National Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Lindsay Manufacturing, Woodmen of the World, ConAgra Foods, Pinnacle Bank, AT&T, Coventry, UPS, Omaha Steaks , Cox Communications, Wells Fargo Bank, Physicians Mutual, Security National Bank, American Harvest, Max I Walker, three foundations and a number of non-profits.Businesses and organizations that would like to support the initiative, please contact:
STEP-UP OMAHA at 402-502-3763 or info@stepupomaha.com

You can also download the STEP-UP OMAHA! Pledge Form »
or please go to www.stepupomaha.com for more information.

Media Coverage
Omaha World-Herald
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120425/NEWS01/704269979

KETV - Ch. 7
http://www.ketv.com/news/local-news/Empowerment-Network-taking-applicati...

BACKGROUND & COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
The Empowerment Network and City of Omaha in collaboration with community partners are working to provide opportunities for youth and young adults to gain valuable job training and work experience during the summer. We’re working to provide jobs, internships, vocational training, academic recovery and remediation, life skills training, and community service opportunities.

STEP-UP OMAHA! recruits, trains, and places prepared Omaha youth and young adults age 14 to 24, in mutually beneficial paid summer jobs and work experience opportunities. STEP-UP OMAHA! builds on the Empowerment Network and community partners’ successes in hiring and placing over 1,000 participants over the past four years in the Great Summer Jobs Program. Based on its commitment to building a highly competitive workforce of the future, the City of Omaha is prepared to make a significant investment in helping to expand the employment program.

STEP-UP OMAHA! a community-based initiative of the Empowerment Network and City of Omaha in collaboration with community partners: Boys & Girls Club, ENCAP, Heartland Workforce Solutions, Hope Center, Impact One Community Connection, Latino Center of the Midlands, Metropolitan Community College, Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Omaha Public Schools, Urban League of Nebraska and Victory Boxing

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April 15, 2012
Empowerment Network featured on the premier of KETV's Chronicle
The Empowerment Network was blessed with the opportunity to be on the very first edition of KETV's new show Chronicle. KETV's web-sites states, "each Sunday, KETV NewsWatch 7's Chronicle will dig deeper into the news of the day and go in-depth with experts from the community to share their knowledge. The program airs at 10 a.m. on Sundays."

The Empowerment Network would like to thank KETV for presenting this opportunity to update the community on progress and journey ahead.
Watch the show here: Watch the show here: http://www.ketv.com/Chronicle-Segment-1/-/9675214/11683426/-/cug3k4z/-/i...

April 15, 2012
The Empowerment Network, IMA and OTOC host forum with four U.S. House Candidates
On Sunday, April 15, three Omaha organizations joined forces at North High School to question Democratic and Republican candidates for the U.S. House about where they stand on issues impacting families in North Omaha and throughout the greater Omaha community. The well attended session featured questions on topics including; employment and job training, health, education, immigration reform, community development, and neighborhood revitalization.

April 11, 2012
City of Omaha presents the Community Development Award to the Empowerment Network
The City of Omaha Planning Department presented its annual Community Development Award to the Empowerment Network, Deer Park Neighborhood Association, and Jeannie Dickes on Wednesday, April 11, 2012. Over 100 community leaders and partners were present during the ceremony held at the Tip Top Conference Center in Omaha, Nebraska. Willie Barney, president/facilitator of the Empowerment Network, was the keynote speaker and delivered a speech entitled, "Transforming Omaha into a GREAT city in every zip code. We can do this."

Governor Dave Heineman presented the award to the Empowerment Network and other recipients in a ceremony at the State Capitol on Monday, April 9, 2012.

April 10, 2012
Empowerment Network co-sponsors Revive! Omaha Magazine's Salute to Excellence
On Tuesday, April 10, Revive! Omaha Magazine hosted its Salute to Excellence Dinner with presenting sponsor, ConAgra Foods. Over 250 students, parents, and guardians joined the Revive! Omaha team, OPS leaders, and representatives from sponsors ConAgra, Wells Fargo, the Empowerment Network, and State Farm Insurance. Willie Barney, publisher of Revive! Magazine and president/facilitator of the Empowerment Network, and Yolanda Barney, co-publisher and vice-president of Revive!, were the hosts.

Community leaders attended to show their strong support for the OPS African-American students who were honored for achieving a 3.5 or higher. OPS Superintendent Dr. John Mackiel, School Board President Freddie Gray, School Board Vice President Mary Morrisey, Asst. Superintendent Thomas Harvey, Asst. Superintendent Dr. Janice Garnett, Councilman Ben Gray, Douglas County Treasurer John Ewing, Dr. Claudette Lee, Vicki Quaites-Ferris, Jason Ferris, and other community leaders were all present. Students received copies of Revive! Omaha Magazine's 4th Annual Salute to Excellence, a gift bag from ConAgra, and a certificate highlighting their achievements.

Salute to Excellence in Revive! Omaha Magazine:
http://www.reviveomahamagazine.com/RO2012/?q=node/38
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April 3, 2012
OPS Selects New Superintendent - Dr. Nancy Sebring
Omaha World-Herald Coverage »

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Empowerment Network receives national recognition for community building work

In a ceremony held on Friday, March 16, 2012 at FBI Headquarters, Director Robert S. Mueller, III recognized the recipients of the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award. These leaders, selected by their area FBI field office, have demonstrated outstanding contributions to their local communities through service. The FBI is grateful for the work of each of these individuals and organizations on behalf of their communities.

Weysan Dun, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Omaha Division is pleased to announce the Empowerment Network of Omaha as the 2011 recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award. Mr. Willie Barney, President of the Empowerment Network traveled to FBI Headquarters in Washington D.C., to accept the award on behalf of the organization which serves as a catalyst for uniting individuals and organizations to work toward empowering disadvantaged communities through strategic objectives and action.

“Whatever the motivation—an unfilled need, a tragic occurrence, a desire to give back—these are people who make things happen and enlist others in their cause,” said Director Mueller. “They are activists who have earned their prestige through good works.”

The goal of the Empowerment Network is to transform Omaha into a great city, thriving and prosperous, in every zip code, where citizens are actively engaged and have full access to: employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, world-class education; high-quality, mixed-income housing options; and, support services to build strong and healthy families.

The organization, in partnership with residents, religious leaders, law enforcement, and more than 100 community organizations, launched Omaha 360. The Omaha 360 initiative is a comprehensive approach aimed at reducing gun violence through prevention, intervention, enforcement, reentry, and support services. Since 2006, gun assaults in Omaha have decreased by 21%.

The Empowerment Network also worked with community partners to launch and expand non-profit organizations and initiatives, including Impact One, Communities In Schools, Alliance Building Communities, North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance, North Omaha Village Zone Revitalization Plan, and the Step-Up Omaha! jobs and employment pathway. Over 500 hundred organizations have participated and thousands of residents have been positively impacted by the work of the Empowerment Network collaborative partners.

In five years, the Empowerment Network has grown from a concept into a comprehensive community development model. The efforts are being recognized regionally and nationally by governmental entities, philanthropists, community-building organizations, and other influential leaders.

“This national recognition goes to every individual and organization that has worked in a collaborative way to reduce violence and build a stronger, more cohesive community,” said Willie Barney. “We have a long way to go, but we’re beginning to see measurable progress in key areas. We will make an even greater impact as more residents and leaders get involved and do their part. Working together, we will accomplish the mission.”
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STEP-UP OMAHA!
Summer Training, Employment Pathway, and Urban Pipeline

Closing the Employment Gap by Investing in Tomorrow’s Workforce

STEP-UP OMAHA! Launch - Official Press Conference
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_6aX_XPSXk&context=C4f322e6ADvjVQa1PpcFP...

City of Omaha, Empowerment Network, and 20+ Community Partners Launch STEP-UP OMAHA!
KETV Coverage - March 1, 2012
http://www.ketv.com/news/30578884/detail.html

The Empowerment Network and City of Omaha in collaboration with community partners are working to provide opportunities for youth and young adults to gain valuable job training and work experience during the summer. We’re working to provide jobs, internships, vocational training, academic recovery and remediation, life skills training, and community service opportunities.

In 2012, Mayor Jim Suttle, the City of Omaha, Empowerment Network and community partners are challenging the business community, philanthropists, and community organizations to help us put 550+ youth and young adults to work. Employers over the past four years have included non-profits, educational institutions, governmental agencies, and for-profit businesses.

“Blue Cross Blue Shield supported youth summer employment last year and we are committed to partnering with the Empowerment Network, government, business leaders and community partners to expand the initiative moving forward,” said Steve Martin, CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska. “The program is producing measurable results.”

“We are excited to be a part of the expansion of this jobs program,” said John Kotouc, Executive Chairman of American National Bank. “The Empowerment Network has been effective with this program for the last four years. They have excellent connections to youth in the community and offer great support to employers. The youth participants are respectful and courteous. It’s wonderful to see their horizons expand as they are exposed to new work challenges.”

There are four ways that businesses and organizations can invest in this vitally important initiative:

1. Hire participants from the initiative and provide a high quality work experience
2. Provide work experience opportunities that are subsidized or partially subsidized
3. Sponsor participants financially. Participants will be placed on a separate work site.
4. Make a financial contribution to support the initiative.

Businesses and organizations that would like to support the initiative, please contact:
STEP-UP OMAHA at 402-502-3763 or info@stepupomaha.com

Download the STEP-UP OMAHA! Pledge Form »

Omaha World-Herald Coverage - March 1, 2012
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120301/NEWS01/703019856/1010384#city-expa...

Applications for participants will be made available starting on April 2, 2012. Check back for more details.

STEP-UP OMAHA! a community-based initiative of the Empowerment Network and City of Omaha
in collaboration with community partners: Boys & Girls Club, ENCAP, Heartland Workforce Solutions, Hope Center, Impact One Community Connection, Latino Center of the Midlands, Metropolitan Community College, Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Omaha Public Schools, Urban League of Nebraska and Victory Boxing

APRIL 25, 2012
STEP-UP OMAHA!
Summer Training, Employment Pathway, and Urban Pipeline

Omaha World-Herald
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120425/NEWS01/704269979

KETV - Ch. 7
http://www.ketv.com/news/local-news/Empowerment-Network-taking-applicati...

The Empowerment Network would like to thank KETV for presenting this opportunity to update the community on progress and journey ahead.
Watch the show here: http://www.ketv.com/Chronicle-Segment-1/-/9675214/11683426/-/cug3k4z/-/i...

Governor Dave Heineman presented the award to the Empowerment Network and other recipients in a ceremony at the State Capitol on Monday, April 9, 2012.

Salute to Excellence in Revive! Omaha Magazine:
http://www.reviveomahamagazine.com/RO2012/?q=node/38

March 1, 2012
City of Omaha, Empowerment Network, and 20+ Community Partners Launch STEP-UP OMAHA!
GOAL: Summer Training and Employment Opportunities for over 500 Youth and Young Adults

KETV Coverage of STEP-UP OMAHA! Launch and Challenge
http://www.ketv.com/news/30578884/detail.html

Omaha World-Herald Coverage STEP-UP OMAHA! Launch and Challenge
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120301/NEWS01/703019856/1010384#city-expa...

KPTM Coverage of STEP-UP Omaha! - Story of Participant - Now Working at American National Bank
http://www.kptm.com/global/story.asp?s=17061293

February 2012
Basketball Brings Neighborhood Together
Village Basketball Alliance - Part of a Comprehensive Collaboration to Reduce Violence
Omaha 360 is an initiative of the Empowerment Network and Community Partners
KETV Report
http://www.ketv.com/video/30446069/detail.html

February 2012
Bringing Community Together - More than Basketball
Village Basketball Alliance - Positive Activities and Alternatives have an IMPACT
Omaha 360 is an initiative of the Empowerment Network and Community Partners
Omaha World-Herald Report
http://www.omaha.com/article/20120211/NEWS01/702119912/-1#fighting-gangs...

February 2012
Empowerment Network Response to Mayor's State of the City and Priorities
KVNO News Report
http://www.kvnonews.com/2012/02/supportive-response-to-mayor-suttles-pri...

January 2012
MLK Week 2012 - Honor the Legacy: Take Action Now
Empowerment Network Partners with City of Omaha, Omaha Serves and others
Over 1,500 participated in the events...MLK Lunch at Big Mama's, Get on the Bus Mobile Museum, Double Victory Documentary, Innovations in Education with Eric Mahmoud, and Red Tails Premiere at Aksarben.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQ0hxCQ8_tc&context=C304a014ADOEgsToPDskK...

Friday, December 16, 2011
Loves Jazz and Art Center - Keeping the Jazz Tradition Alive at 24th and Lake
Omaha World-Herald
http://www.omaha.com/article/20111216/NEWS01/712169874/-1#-31-000-grant-...

December 2011
Empowerment Network presents Christmas in the Village at 24th and Lake
A new tradition and community celebration in North Omaha
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFPHoJUY08w&context=C3bd8c10ADOEgsToPDskJ...

Saturday, December 10, 2011
Kandiss Crone and KMTV's Coverage of Christmas in the Village at 24th and Lake
http://www.kmtv.com/news/local/135386088.html

December 2011
Empowerment Network presents
5th Annual State of African-Americans and North Omaha
Omaha World-Herald Coverage
http://omaha.com/article/20111211/NEWS01/712119904

Thursday, November 3, 2011
WOWT
Revitalization in North Omaha - Omaha Economic Development Corporation
A Historic Building is Restored to Greatness - Green, Sustainable Development
http://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/Renovated_Building_Provides_Hope_For_...

October 2011
Tavis Smiley visits Omaha
NAACP Annual Event
KVNO – Angel Martin Reporting and Empowerment Network Response
http://www.kvnonews.com/2011/11/local-leaders-urged-to-make-poverty-a-pr...

Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Omaha World-Herald Editorial: North Omaha Revitalization
Big Boost for Revitalization
http://www.omaha.com/article/20111012/NEWS0802/710129933

Monday, October 3, 2011
Omaha World-Herald
North Omaha Plan Backed by Buffetts
http://www.omaha.com/article/20111003/NEWS01/710039958/1009#north-o-plan...

September 2011
KIOS Radio Segment
Forum hosted by Filmstreams following a showing of the Interrupters (Gang Intervention Efforts)
Moderated by Willie Barney, President & Facilitator of the Empowerment Network
Panelists: Councilman Ben Gray, Emergency Team Director for Impact One; Jannette Taylor, Executive Director for Impact One; and, Thomas Warren, Sr., President & CEO of the Urban League of Nebraska.
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kios/.artsmain/article/15/414/1859465/...

Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Omaha World-Herald
New Homes in North Omaha: $17 million dollar investment planned
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110802/NEWS01/708029925/1009#a-plan-for-n...

Friday, July 22, 2011
The Reader
Overarching Plan for North Omaha Development Now in Place
http://www.thereader.com/index.php/comments/overarching_plan_for_north_o...

Wednesday, July 13, 2011
North Omaha Village Zone Revitalization Plan Approved 7-0 by Omaha City Council

"Today is a new day for North Omaha and the City of Omaha," said Willie Barney, President and Facilitator of the Empowerment Network. "Now is the time to unite and transform Omaha!"

The Omaha City Council unanimously approved a 30 year vision for the rebuilding of key areas of North Omaha. The vision of the plan is to connect the rich history and legacy of North Omaha to a thriving, sustainable future. Over 25 residents, community leaders, elected officials, neighborhood association leaders, pastors and ministers, and others attended the city council public hearing to show their support. A dozen of the supporters stood and presented the case for North Omaha.

A number of the City Councilman took the opportunity to congratulate the participants on a history making accomplishment. Several made specific comments about the plan being driven by community-based, bottom-up involvement and engagement.

"This is history making legislation," said Ben Gray, District II City Councilman.

Councilman Franklin Thompson quoted from a World-Herald editorial in support of the plan, "every Omahan has an interest in seeing North Omaha prosper." And, he also reminded the attendees of a quote attributed to Shirley Franklin, former mayor of Atlanta, "in order for the city to win, North Omaha has to win."

I'm excited to see that the arts is included as a vital economic aspect in the plan. - Deb Bunting of the Nebraska Arts Council.

Charles Drew is happy to support this plan. We have made a four million dollar investment in our recent expansion right in the middle of this zone. We are still here and ready to continue serving the community. - Dr. Richard Brown - CEO of Charles Drew Health Center

The Village Zone vision and action plan identifies iconic and transformational projects that will be catalysts to the revitalization of North Omaha. We will build on the incredible assets of North Omaha and complement the surrounding development in Downtown, North Downtown, Midtown Crossing, Creighton University campus, and the Metropolitan Community College master plan. The purpose is to accelerate the transformation of North Omaha into a great place to live, raise a family, do business, worship, and play.

Omaha World-Herald Coverage of the City Council Approval
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110712/NEWS01/110719851/0#north-omaha-mak...
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4 New Green, Sustainable Homes Built in the Heart of North Omaha

Rebuilding the Village - Block by Block, Neighborhood by Neighborhood, Family by Family

On Saturday, July 9, 2011, the Omaha Economic Development Corporation in partnership with Prospect Hill/Highlander Neighborhood Associations, and the North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance hosted an exciting Neighborhood Open House & Celebration.

Neighborhood residents, neighborhood association leaders, elected officials, community leaders, and others were on hand to participate in the ribbon cutting ceremony. The event marked the completion of four of the greenest homes in the city, right in the heart of North Omaha.

The celebration also included free food, face painting, and display tables from the Urban League of Nebraska, Building Bright Futures, City of Omaha, Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Early Childhood Services, Family Housing Advisory Services, and Impact One.

The events were hosted by Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Alliance Building Communities, Holy Name Housing, Wells Fargo Bank, Family Housing Advisory Services, and the Empowerment Network!

Omaha World-Herald Coverage of the Open Houses
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110709/NEWS01/707099866#new-homes-boost-d...

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NORTH OMAHA VILLAGE ZONE - Omaha World-Herald Editorial - Published June 7, 2011

"All of Omaha has a common interest in seeing north Omaha prosper.

The long-range economic development plan unveiled last week — in a detailed, 500-plus page document called the North Omaha Village Revitalization Plan — deserves support from all Omahans.

No one should minimize the challenge ahead. Implementing that vision will require perseverance, teamwork and effort from all sectors of Omaha. A resurgence of north Omaha will be a long-term initiative and will take the constant, dedicated work of every sector — the business community, the city government, neighborhood residents and community leaders."

http://www.omaha.com/article/20110607/NEWS0802/706079995/-1#world-herald...

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NORTH OMAHA VILLAGE ZONE REVITALIZATION PLAN APPROVED BY PLANNING BOARD - June 1, 2011

Village Zone Plan approved 7 to 0 by Planning Board.
The 30 year vision seeks to connect the rich history of North Omaha with a thriving, sustainable future!

With the financial support of Alliance Building Communities, Nebraska Investment Finance Authority, and philanthropic partners, the Empowerment Network facilitated a community-based process to build consensus on a comprehensive 30 year vision for North Omaha. The Village Zone Plan represents over two years of intense work and has engaged hundreds of residents, stakeholders, elected officials, City of Omaha staff, Mayor Jim Suttle’s Office, economic development specialists, business leaders, and potential financial supporters. The process consisted of community visioning and feedback sessions, focus groups, advisory and executive team meetings, and one-on-one discussions with stakeholders. Experienced urban design and architectural consultants, H3 Studio and Schemmer Associates were contracted to help develop the plan.

The vision is to connect the rich history of North Omaha to a thriving and sustainable future. The Village Zone plan builds on the work and previous North Omaha studies, City of Omaha master plan, North Omaha Development Project, and Empowerment Network Village Strategy.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Omaha World-Herald Coverage of Planning Board approval of the Village Zone
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110602/MONEY/706029917#reimagining-north-...

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HARMONY WEEK
Over 1,000 participants engaged during the 3rd Annual Harmony Week - Safe Summer Kick-off Events. The annual celebration is presented by the Empowerment Network, City of Omaha, Mayor Jim Suttle's Office, Impact One, and over 100 Omaha 360 partners. The purpose is to raise awareness about gun violence, encourage residents and organizations to get involved, and start the summer with safe and positive activities. Harmony Week was recognized by the City of Omaha by a City Council resolution that passed 7-0.

The key message is "A CITY UNITED, WORKING TOGETHER TO REDUCE GUN VIOLENCE." We would like to thank all of the volunteers, partners, supporters, and participants. Let's continue to work together to make it a safe summer. You are making a difference. Please continue to STEP UP AND STEP FORWARD!

May 19-27, 2011
Harmony Week • See details »

Harmony Sunday in the Park
May 22, 2011
A Harmony Week event hosted by Omaha 360, Empowerment Network, and the City of Omaha
http://www.kptm.com/story/14694212/a-city-unites-hundreds-gather-at-memo...

PEACE in the STREETS III
Saturday, May 21, 2011
A Harmony Week event hosted by Impact One and Omaha 360
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsgoCw7Q0MA&feature=youtu.be

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EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE, LUNCHEON, AND SUMMIT
“I have not seen this level of community organization and planning in any community I’m familiar with, not in my 25 years of public service." Shirley Franklin, former mayor of Atlanta speaking about the Empowerment Network and Empower Omaha Partners, at the Unite & Transform Empowerment Luncheon on May 19, 2011.

Over 400 leaders and residents participated in the Empowerment Network's Unite & Transform: Partnering Towards Prosperity Conference, Luncheon, and Summit. It was an amazing and powerful day from beginning to end. Participants left inspired, challenged, informed, and energized. Omaha has everything that it needs to accomplish visionary objectives and measurable goals. Thank you to all participants, collaborative partners, volunteers, and supporters! Four years after the public launch of the Empowerment Network and Empower Omaha partnerships, we are beginning to make measurable progress. We have a long way to go, but we believe that the next four years hold great potential, possibilities, and promise. We will work together to transform Omaha into the first major city in the country to solve long-standing gaps in employment, entrepreneurship, education, housing, and quality of life - traditionally based on race and geographic segregation. Omaha will become a thriving and prosperous community by extending the "greatness" of Omaha to every zipcode. It's time to Unite and Transform our community.

"Omaha has the opportunity to reach a new level of greatness. Make it so." - Shirley Franklin, former Mayor of Atlanta and CEO/Board Chair Purpose Built Communities.

Empowerment Conference and Luncheon
May 19, 2011
Angel Martin Reporting for KVNONews
http://www.kvnonews.com/2011/05/15-year-vision-for-north-omaha-revealed/

Empowerment Conference and Luncheon
May 19, 2011
Omaha World-Herald Coverage
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110520/NEWS01/705209903/1009#ex-atlanta-m...

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Village Basketball Alliance
An Omaha 360 initiative launched by Hope Center, ENCAP, and Impact One
May 2011
http://www.action3news.com/category/170799/video-landing-page?clipId=581...

April 22, 2011
Omaha Economic Development Corporation - Honored by National Organization for Green Development
http://www.omaha.com/article/20110422/MONEY/704229911#affordable-green-h...

April 9, 2011
Empowerment Network – 4th Annual Violence Intervention and Prevention Summit
Omaha 360 – A City United to Reduce Gun Violence
http://www.kmtv.com/story/14415959/omaha-violence-roundtable?redirected=...

March 30, 2011
Education Collaboration to Help Close the Achievement Gap
Omaha Public Schools, OEA – Teacher’s Union, CIS, & Empowerment Network
http://omahaoea.org/
http://omahaoea.org/media/home/The_NEA_Foundation_Funds_Union.pdf

February 12, 2011
Empowerment Network Community Meeting - KETV Coverage
Focus: Jobs and Business Development in North Omaha
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5H7lpTm4Yo&feature=fvst

February 2011
Working to Save the State’s only Focus School (Underwood, now Wilson)
Over 100 Parents and Families Travel to State Legislature
KVNO – Angel Martin Reporting
http://www.kvnonews.com/2011/02/underwood-parents-pack-hearing-room/

Communities In Schools - Local Affiliate Launched in Nebraska
Launched in partnership with the Empowerment Network, Omaha Public Schools, and Philanthropic Support
November 2010
http://www.kmtv.com/story/13522218/new-program-in-schools-fights-drop-ou...

Empowerment Network – 10 Year Goals Community Meeting
http://www.ketv.com/news/25784461/detail.html
November 13, 2010

End of Summer Prayer Walk and Rally
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=13155192
September 14, 2010

Face of Success – African-American Male Summit
http://www.owh.com/article/20100826/NEWS02/708269891/1120
August 26, 2010

Empowerment Network’s
Adopt-A-Block Neighborhood Partnership Strategy in Action
Hope of Glory Church
http://www.ketv.com/news/24633430/detail.html
August 2010

Adopt-A-Block Neighborhood Partnerships – Abide Network
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12901592
July 30, 2010

Ndamukong Suh Reaches out to Omaha Youth
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12863307
July 23, 2010

July 2010
Power Players - Part I – African-American Leaders and Residents Unite through Empowerment - by Leo Biga
http://leoadambiga.wordpress.com/2010/07/09/power-players-ben-gray-and-o...

July 2010
Power Players – Part II – African-American Leaders and Residents Unite through Empowerment - by Leo Biga
http://leoadambiga.wordpress.com/2010/08/02/part-ii-after-decades-of-wal...

Keeping Kids of the Street and Money in their Pocket
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12699572
June 23, 2010

Harmony Week on Morning Blend Show
http://www.clipsyndicate.com/video/play/1464406/empower_omaha
May 2010

Police Chief: Anti-violence Groups Paying Off
http://www.owh.com/article/20100513/NEWS01/705139852/-1
May 2010

Omaha 360 Violence Intervention and Prevention – Formal Launch
http://www.ketv.com/news/23532722/detail.html
May 2010

Omaha 360 Violence Intervention and Prevention – Launch
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12473568
May 2010

Organization Grows with Challenges
Omaha World-Herald
http://www.momaha.com/article/20100512/NEWS01/705129898/143#organization...
May 12, 2010

Ways to Help Curb Violence
Omaha World-Herald
http://www.momaha.com/article/20100510/NEWS97/305109930/143#ways-to-help...
May 10, 2010

Building Communities – Block by Block
Omaha World-Herald
http://www.omaha.com/article/20100508/NEWS01/705089764/143
May 8, 2010

Jobs for At-Risk Youth Hard to Come By
http://www.omaha.com/article/20100504/NEWS01/705049901
May 4, 2010

A Movement to Take Back the Streets
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=12292827
April 2010

Community Leaders Speak Out Against Recent Violence
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=11961541
February 2010

Prayer Rally and 10 Point Plan to Stop Violence
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=12021014
February 2010

Leaders Seek Support in Fight Against Violence
http://www.ketv.com/news/22520888/detail.html
February 2010

Stopping the Violence in Omaha
http://www.kptm.com/Global/story.asp?s=11418541
November 2009

Collaboration Gets Credit for Drop in Violence
http://www.kptm.com/Global/story.asp?s=11357756
October 2009

Fight Against Violence Needs Funding Support
http://www.ketv.com/news/21319339/detail.html
October 2009

Omaha Leaders Provide Update on Violence – 2009
http://www.ketv.com/news/21371281/detail.html
October 2009

Jobs Programs Put Youth on Track to Careers
http://www.ketv.com/money/19996992/detail.html
July 2009

Group Rallies Against Violence
http://education.tmcnet.com/news/2009/05/18/4184087.htm
May 2009

Job Fair to Address High Unemployment
http://www.ketv.com/news/18449629/detail.html
January 2009

Empowerment Network – State of African-Americans and North Omaha 2008
http://www.ketv.com/video/18273404/index.html
December 2008

Spiritual Battle Underway to Fight Violence
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=7191639
Fall 2008

Empower Omaha Making a Difference – One Year Later
http://www.ketv.com/news/14182076/detail.html
September 2007

Omaha Group Takes Aim Against Violence
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=11356132

Group Wants to Empower Omaha through Prayer
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=7224099

Church and Empower Omaha Reach Out
http://www.ketv.com/news/13843244/detail.html
August 2007

Group Tries to Empower Omaha
http://www.ketv.com/news/13730963/detail.html
July 2007

Empower Omaha Reaches Out to Youth and Young Adults
http://www.ketv.com/news/13215727/detail.html
April 2007

Launch of Empower Omaha
http://www.ketv.com/news/13213583/detail.html
April 2007

World-Herald – Omaha in Black in White Series
http://www.omaha.com/article/20090618/SPECIALPROJECTS/706179826#omaha-in...
April 2007

Empowerment Network hosts 1st Community Summit
http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/4873196.html
December 2006

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