Pioneered by local philanthropists Dick Holland, Mike Yanney, Susie Buffett, Andy Holland, Wally and Barb Weitz, Dianne Lozier, and Jerry and Cookie Hoberman, along with Mayor Mike Fahey, the study, Investing in Omaha's Children and Youth, was conducted by SRI International to provide comprehensive insights into obstacles that impede children's success in our community.

The goal of the study, as stated in the report, is to:

". . . find out what more could be done to ensure that all Omaha youth receive the education, training, and support needed to enable and motivate them to seize economic opportunities and achieve a productive future."

The initial focus of the study was to find ways to improve academic performance, raise high school graduation rates, and reward every economically disadvantaged high school graduate in the Omaha Metropolitan Area post-secondary educational financial assistance. Six initiatives were identified to

• Make the most of early childhood
• Provide academic support and career awareness
• After-school mentoring and tutoring for excellence
• Reduce truancy and recovering lost youth
• Address adolescent behavioral health
• Finance higher education

To learn more about the study or the Master Plan for implementation, download the report.  To indicate your interest in future updates or possible volunteer opportunities, contact Patrick McNamara, Director of Philanthropic Services, at patrick@omahafoundation.org.