Program areas at Aksarben Foundation
Advancing workforce development: Nebraska businesses are currently grappling with a pressing issue - a notable shortage of skilled labor. This deficiency is causing a surge in the outsourcing of various positions to other states. The resulting dynamic puts a cap on Nebraska's business expansion and hampers the potential for new businesses considering relocation to our state. However, Aksarben is dedicated to addressing this labor crisis. We have pledged to tap into our robust network of business and community leaders, working with Nebraska colleges and universities, and leveraging public, private, and philanthropic resources. Our mission is not only to expand our workforce, but also to enhance the number and quality of high-skill, high-wage jobs, elevating Nebraska's business landscape.
Investing in the future through scholarships & community grants: the Aksarben Foundation is heavily invested in fostering the future leaders of Nebraska. We have awarded numerous two and four-year scholarships to help local students attend college in our state. In a five-year agreement (2019-2023) with horatio alger, we provided 250 $10,000 scholarships for students to attend college in Nebraska, while a four-year agreement (2019-2022) with metropolitan community college facilitated $4,000 scholarships for students pursuing selected high-demand careers. Our commitment doesn't stop at scholarships. The Aksarben Foundation friends community grants support projects budgeted up to $10,000 in total. The maximum grant awarded in this category is $1,000, with all grant awards requiring a matching gift component.
The Aksarben ball: a legacy of service and volunteerism. For over 127 years, the Aksarben Foundation has been orchestrating the annual Aksarben ball, a grand event that underscores the spirit of community service and volunteerism. We take pride in honoring those individuals and families who have contributed significantly to enhancing our regional quality of life. The Aksarben ball, with its storied history, represents the essence of leadership and community development in Nebraska. The october 2022 ball was a testament to this mission thanks to the commendable efforts of the Aksarben women's ball committee.
Staff salaries, benefits, and other miscellaneous expenses (grant included) not specifically allocated to a certain program.