The holiday season is filled with joy and traditions, but for many kids at Boys Town, it can be a bittersweet time.
After our holiday celebrations on campus, most of our youth can go home and spend time with their families—if the environment is safe and they’ve earned the privilege. However, this past year, 30% of our kids stayed on campus over the holidays. For these young people, Boys Town aims to create a sense of family and belonging through a variety of special activities that bring connection during the festive season.
Without the structure of school and with many housemates away, it’s a time when we step up our efforts to make them feel truly special. Thanks to the generosity of our incredible community partners, we filled their holiday break with love and excitement, hosting 29 events just for them. Here’s a look at some of the wonderful events and sponsors who made this season brighter for our kids:
Cobalt Credit Union hosts Annual Pasta Dinner & Gingerbread Contest
One of the highlights of the season is the annual pasta dinner, generously sponsored by Cobalt Credit Union for the past 10 years. This year’s pasta luncheon featured penne with red sauce and meatballs, bowtie Alfredo, Caesar salad, and bread, all catered by Mangia. The meal was served by Boys Town employees and enthusiastic volunteers from Valmont and Homeland Security, showcasing the community spirit that makes Boys Town a special place.
Adding to the festivities is a newer tradition that has quickly become a favorite: the Gingerbread House Contest. The contest was judged by Cobalt Credit Union’s CEO Robin Larsen, along with leadership team members Keli Wrage and Cory Parker. The winners were celebrated at a breakfast hosted by the Pancake Man, adding an extra layer of joy to the event. This year, the contest introduced new trophies that will feature plaques with the names of the winners, further cementing this activity as a cherished tradition.
A Delicious Meal at Pizza Ranch, Thanks to the Lawless Family
The Lawless family, a generous donor family, has been treating Boys Town youth to a special pizza dinner every year since at least 2009. What started with just the parents, Les and Phyllis, has grown into a beautiful family tradition, with their children and even grandchildren now joining the celebration. Each year, they generously pay for all the youth to eat at Pizza Ranch, and their kindness doesn’t stop there—they love visiting and spending time with the kids, making everyone feel like part of the family. This heartwarming tradition has become a cherished part of the Lawless family's Christmas celebrations, and the youth look forward to it every year.
Cheering Courtside at the UNO Men’s Basketball Game
The University of Nebraska Omaha Athletics generously covered the cost for every Boys Town youth to attend their basketball game, offering them an unforgettable experience sitting courtside.
Other highlights of the season included:
· A Private Sky Zone Experience
· Games and Great Food at Amazing Pizza Machine
· Strikes, Smiles, and Lunch at Spare Time Bowling
· Exploring History at the Durham Museum
· Ice Skating Adventures at Moylan Iceplex
· Prehistoric Putt-Putt Fun
· Christmas Eve Brunch at Stokes
· A Tasty Feast at A+ Buffet
Boys Town deeply values the partnerships that make these events possible. These collaborations extend far beyond financial support. The organizations shared above leave a lasting impact and demonstrate to our youth that they are surrounded by a community that genuinely cares. Whether it's serving meals, judging contests, or sharing in the joy of the season, these partnerships bring Boys Town’s mission to life in meaningful ways.
For businesses or organizations that would like to get involved in Boys Town’s activities and make a difference in the lives of our youth, we invite you to reach out. Please contact Melissa Steffes at 531-355-1795 or melissa.steffes@boystown.org
