Shared meals create predictable routines, encourage meaningful conversations and strengthen relationships between caregivers and youth. While nutrition is an important part of the equation, the emotional benefits of eating together can be just as powerful. Whether you’re a foster parent, kinship caregiver or shared living provider, making time for regular family meals is one meaningful way to help children and teens feel safe, supported and at home.

At KVC Nebraska, strengthening family and community support systems is at the heart of everything we do. Through behavioral healthcare, foster care, Shared Living, in-home family support and prevention services, we’re helping build the connections that allow Nebraska individuals, youth and families to thrive.

For many children and teens, summer means freedom, fun and a welcome break from school routines. But for parents and caregivers, the season can also bring new challenges. Longer days, less structure and increased screen time can impact youth mental health in ways that are easy to overlook — especially for children who have experienced trauma or instability. To help your family navigate the season, here are our practical, therapist-approved strategies to support your children and teens through the unique emotional ups and downs of summer break.

May is Foster Care Month, a time to recognize the vital role foster families play in supporting children and strengthening communities across Nebraska. For Cathi, foster care has been part of her life for decades. From experiencing foster care in her own home as a child to becoming a dedicated foster parent herself, Cathi brings a unique, deeply personal perspective to what it means to care for children and support families. Her journey reflects both the challenges and the profound impact of fostering — and offers an honest look at how one person can make a lasting difference. Hear Cathi’s inspirational story.

KVC Nebraska offers foster care youth mental health support that is trauma-informed and compassionate, but we also take the time to educate caregivers on strategies to support youth wellbeing. See why nature is a simple, accessible tool caregivers can use consistently to help youth in their care feel connected, grounded and at peace.

Spring often brings a sense of hope and new beginnings, but for many families, the transition between seasons can also feel overwhelming. But with a few intentional coping strategies, families can support one another through these shifts and build habits that strengthen mental wellness all year long. These practical tips are designed to help families in Nebraska navigate seasonal change with compassion, connection and balance.

At KVC Nebraska, we believe every young person and individual deserves a safe, supportive environment as they work toward independence. Shared Living is one way we provide a pathway to independence for individuals of many different backgrounds and experiences who may need a little extra help. Shared Living providers are the backbone of this program, opening their homes to youth and other individuals in need. If you’re interested in becoming a Shared Living provider in Nebraska, here’s what you need to know.

Have you ever thought about welcoming a child in need into your home? Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back, open your heart and make a difference in someone’s life? If you’re curious about how to become a foster parent in Nebraska, you’ve come to the right place. The most important trait in a foster parent is openness to love and support. We know you would be so good at this! Don’t believe us? Here are 10 signs you’re ready to take the next step and start providing foster care in Nebraska.

How can parents keep children and teens engaged and emotionally healthy over winter break? It starts with understanding why structure, connection and simple daily rhythms make such a big difference this time of year.

When we take care of ourselves and our emotions, we’re better equipped to show tolerance to those around us. Skills we can learn through therapy make a difference in our own lives and increase our capacity to show kindness and openness to others. Let’s explore why therapy can be transformative in building our acceptance and empathy muscles.