Prosper Lincoln continues as a joyful tradition that joins people and community together in powerful ways – kind of like Double Dutch jump roping. While one person usually jumps at a time, the goals of Prosper Lincoln require multiple players making collaboration the true key to these efforts.
Grounded in the newly released 2025 Lincoln Vital Signs report and shaped by hundreds of community conversations, Prosper Lincoln 3.0 centers on three renewed focus areas:
- Connections
- Housing
- Early Childhood
The first three years of Prosper Lincoln demonstrated that we need folks waking up every day to tackle the challenges and lift opportunities related to each focus area. We’re pleased to announce the new players turning the ropes as we all Jump In to the next phase of Prosper Lincoln.
Amanda Barker, director of community engagement and partnerships at Lincoln Community Foundation, is the driver for the Connections focus area. This pillar celebrates and strengthens the ties that bind us with the goal of all people thriving through community engagement and social connections. Amanda’s work centers on amplifying voices, building resident-led initiatives and increasing opportunities for people to improve their economic status.
Alex Labenz, director of policy and strategic engagement at the Coalition for a Strong Nebraska, is the new driver of the Housing focus area. With a deep understanding of systems change and public policy, Alex will help align local efforts and advocate for solutions that ensure quality housing all residents can afford.
Anne Brandt, executive director of Lincoln Littles, remains the driver of Early Childhood. Anne’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing access to high-quality early care and education. Through community engagement, advocacy and collaboration – Anne is committed to helping all children flourish socially, emotionally, physically and educationally.
Prosper Lincoln brings people together to create community-based solutions focused on attaining prosperity for all – in our lifetime and across generations. The drivers will play a vital role in this vision by combining their expertise, creativity and collaborative spirit to address complex challenges and lift Lincoln higher.
They’ll be joined in these efforts by other community leaders who are central to the Housing, Early Childhood, and Connections sectors. Once assembled, the Prosper Lincoln work groups will meet every 6-8 weeks to help develop the core activities for each pillar. Together they’ll identify key partnerships and people-first solutions that address gaps and drive lasting impact.
Whether you’re a business owner, educator, neighbor, or student, there’s also a role for you in Prosper Lincoln 3.0. Here’s how to start:
Stay connected: Sign up for updates by focus area – Connections, Housing or Early Childhood.
Share your story: Use #ProsperLincoln and tag @ProsperLincoln on Facebook.
Partner up: Reach out to Lincoln Community Foundation to explore how your organization can get involved.