Curiosity to learn about community needs leads to passion for advocacy
June 16, 2022
Our local communities are full of dedicated nonprofits with inspiring missions. Read our interview with Angie Avis, Chief Talent Management Officer for TS Banking Group, as well as current board member of Heartland Family Service. Additionally, Ryan and Angie Avis served as the honorary chairs for the Roaring 20’s Strike a Chord Gala on June 10, 2022.
Could you tell us more about this organization and its mission?
Heartland Family Service (HFS) has served the Omaha and Council Bluffs communities for nearly 150 years. Their mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through advocacy, education, counseling, and support services. Heartland Family Service’s programs and services provide critical human services to the individuals and families who help shape the future of our community in the following areas: Child & Family well-being, Counseling & Prevention, and Housing, Safety, & Financial Stability. Last year alone HFS connected with over 140,000 individuals and families, from their 19 locations in east central Nebraska and southwest Iowa.
How did you get involved with Heartland Family Service?
I was approached by a past board member who recognized the connection between my desire to serve as well as alignment of my background and knowledge of Heartland Family Service.
What caused you to join and be part of the organization?
I wanted to be a part of something greater than myself. I wanted to become more aware of the needs of our communities and be able to serve our communities positively and proactively.
You recently served as honorary chairs at this month’s annual Strike a Chord Gala; tell us about that experience?
Serving as honorary chairs was a great experience. We were grateful to be asked and honored to be able to assist in promoting and supporting the Strike a Chord Gala! It was an easy decision for us to represent such a long standing and wonderful organization, to serve Heartland Family Service, as they have and continue to serve so many in our communities. It was the least we could do in order to honor them and their continued efforts. After having to put in person events on hold over the last few years, we were excited to be back in person, not only meeting but also exceeding our financial goal for the event! That was icing on the cake.
What have been some projects or overall impact from this organization?
HFS’s impact is seen every day. From their child and family well-being, counseling services and providing safe housing for those in need. HFS helps impact our communities consistently and directly.
Favorite story or memory with the organization thus far?
My favorite memory while serving thus far would be a tie between attending the annual strategic planning meeting and being the honorary chairs for the Strike a Chord Gala! Participating in the strategic planning meeting helped me truly understand the heart of the organization as well as being a part of impactful discussions and decisions that will continue to serve the organization into the future.
How can others help or learn more?
Volunteers are a critical part of the Heartland Family Service team. Volunteers help to diversify and expand the services they offer to their clients. To find out ways you can help visit heartlandfamilyservice.org or call 402-552-7400.
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