Summer is a great time for families to make memories, keep kids active and strengthen bonds without spending a lot of money. With longer days and more flexible schedules, there are plenty of fun and affordable ways to enjoy the season right here in Nebraska. Whether you’re starting new traditions or just looking for fresh ideas, this list offers 10 low-cost Nebraska summer activities your whole family will enjoy.

Youth aging out of foster care face many unique challenges that youth in more traditional or stable environments don’t, making it more difficult for them to receive academic support, continue their education and build a successful future. According to data gathered by KVC, only 55% of youth aging out of foster care graduated in 2020, with only 3% going on to earn a postsecondary degree. Education plays a critical role in helping these young individuals break the cycle and build a better future for themselves, which is why KVC Nebraska offers a wide range of resources aimed at assisting youth with their education, from our Fostering Educational Success (FES) program to the many therapy and foster care support services we provide. Explore how Fostering Educational Success is changing lives, and why this program sets students up to experience success post-foster care.

Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe, loved and supported. Yet for too many children, these foundational rights are out of reach. Child abuse and neglect are harsh realities that impact millions of young lives every year, including many right here in Nebraska. Each statistic represents a child in need of protection and a family in crisis. But there is hope: each statistic also signifies a community with the power to make a difference.

Our foster families care for children until they can either safely return home or another permanency plan can be determined. The choice to become a foster parent/family is a big deal and life adjustment. And comes with a lot of questions. Here are answers to some of your frequently asked questions about what it means to become a foster parent.

Caregiving is challenging! Caregiving takes countless forms — parenting babies, being a foster parent of teens, acting as a caregiver for an aging family member, co-parenting alongside someone else- the list goes on! No matter the setting, no matter who you’re caring for, burnout is normal. But self-care can help. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to help those in your care. Let’s explore how parents and caregivers can bolster mental health.

November is National Adoption Month, a time to celebrate all the incredible families that have grown and bonded through adoption, including the Fedoris family! From biological to adopted, explore how the Fedoris family went from two biological children to a family of eight!

Whether it’s setting aside time for self-care, exercise, or pursuing hobbies, a routine provides a foundation for mental health in families.

Preventing suicide can feel like an impossible task. Read this blog to learn about common suicide warning signs and what you can do to help.

It’s essential parents learn to recognize child mental health warning signs and know when and where to ask for help. Learn those signs here.

Books can help caregivers and kids gain the tools they need to overcome life’s challenges. Get 15 empowering book recommendations on mental health, trauma, foster care and more.