One Omaha concluded its From the Ground Up series on Nov. 14 at the Benson Theatre. One Omaha is a nonprofit providing education and training to empower communities and create resident-led engagement in neighborhood development. Its goal is to be the source for creating thriving neighborhoods in Omaha.

One Omaha hosted From the Ground Up this year. It was a three-part community-building series. According to One Omaha, residents of Omaha identified housing development as one of the most crucial issues. One Omaha created this series to engage Omahans and facilitate a space where communities can drive growth. Experts from the Omaha Metro were panelist who provided education on housing and offered strategies that communities can employ to shape their own neighborhoods.

The panelist speaking on the final night consisted of Clarice Dombeck, urban development coordinator, Spark; Greg Paskach, City of Omaha- Planning and Development dept.; and Charlie Wesche, chief of staff, NeighborWorks Lincoln.

The speakers offered their expertise and advice for how people can engage more in their neighborhoods and take action in development. Some of the topics discussed were affordable housing and how to leverage funds, preserving affordable housing for future generations and educating about Community Land Trusts (CLT). One Omaha believes education is key to these discussions. Resources and information exist, but often, individuals and communities aren’t aware of this information, or where to find it. One Omaha is on a mission to create fair and equitable neighborhoods in the Omaha area, and it’s working to make these resources accessible for all residents.

“We need to plan, protect, preserve and produce,” said Kimara Snipes, executive director, One Omaha. “It’s important the public show up and learn about these opportunities.”

One Omaha stresses the importance of residents being change-makers in their communities, especially for those historically disenfranchised. One Omaha empowers people to learn what is available and engage with their communities in order to create sustainable opportunities for everyone. It urges people and organizations to advocate for state and local government to consider all residents of Omaha with development.

“Show up, bring friends, bring your voice, there’s power in community,” said Wesche. “Assemble and discuss ideas; this creates better places to live.”

One Omaha has more events coming up in the New Year, as well as an informative blog providing a variety of perspectives on city planning and development. Visit www.oneomaha.org to learn more and get involved.