July 2025 Newsletter
July 23, 2025
July 28, 2025
As we reach the halfway point of the year, we’re excited to share the latest updates from Kearney Community Sustainable Housing. The past few months have been full of progress, and we’re proud to report that our first apartment building is beginning to take shape in a very real and visible way.
Thanks to your generosity and belief in this mission, we’ve now raised over $1.7 million toward our $2.4 million goal. That support has helped us reach a major construction milestone—placing the final roof trusses and topping out the building. The full structure is now visible, and it's easier than ever to picture the six families who will soon call this space home.
In this update, you’ll find construction highlights, a look at what’s coming next, and ways you can stay involved as we work toward a December 2025 move-in. Whether you've given financially, or simply helped spread the word, you are part of a growing movement to ensure every family in our community has access to safe and sustainable housing.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We can’t wait to show you what’s ahead.
Construction Update
The progress at our building site has been remarkable to witness. Several major construction phases are now complete, bringing us significantly closer to welcoming our first residents.
Completed Milestones:
- Foundation: Ready to support decades of families
- Framing: The full structure now stands complete
- Exterior: Roof complete and exterior weatherproofing material applied
- Windows: Installed throughout the building
Despite a challenging late spring blizzard that caused some minor delays, the team at BD Construction has maintained excellent momentum. The weather setback was temporary, and we're pleased to report we remain on track for our December 2025 move-in timeline.
Current Work in Progress: While the exterior is taking shape, more is happening inside. Contractors are currently working on the essential systems—electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC installation, and low voltage cable for modern connectivity needs. Siding and masonry will begin shortly, and the parking lot will begin to take shape.
A Moment to Celebrate: Last month, our board members had the honor of participating in a traditional "topping out" ceremony, where we signed a roof truss brace to commemorate the completion of the framing phase. It was a powerful moment that represented not just construction progress, but the collective effort of everyone who has supported this vision.
The transformation from an empty lot has been extraordinary, and we're excited to share more updates as we continue construction.
The Families We'll Serve
Our six apartments will provide transitional housing for individuals and families facing a variety of circumstances—each with their own story of resilience and hope for stability.
Examples of individuals and families we will serve include single parents struggling to provide for their family, or survivors of domestic violence who need space to rebuild. Also, families who moved to Nebraska seeking better opportunities for their children. They bring valuable skills that strengthen our local workforce while their kids adapt to new schools and friendships.
Each family we serve will use this time to stabilize and save. We will provide them with not only a place to call home, but also the support needed to prepare for their next chapter. These aren't just apartments—they're launching pads for families to build stronger, more secure futures right here in our community.
Recognizing our Donors
This project exists because of the incredible generosity of individuals, families, and organizations who believe in our mission. While every gift—regardless of size—has been essential to our progress, we want to take a moment to recognize the major donors whose substantial commitments have provided the foundation for this work.
These partners have made gifts that not only advance our construction timeline but also inspire confidence in others to join this effort. Their belief in sustainable, affordable housing for Kearney families has been transformational.
Nebraska Dept. of Economic Development: $1,000,000
Anonymous: $500,000
Lorma & David Wiebe: $100,000
Ron & Carol Cope Foundation: $75,000
Bill & Jeanne Ross: $15,000
First National Bank of Omaha: $15,000
Abel Foundation: $10,000
We Still Need Your Help
With nearly $1.7 million raised toward our $2.4 million goal, we're in the final stretch. Every donation brings us closer to opening our doors to the families who need this housing. To donate visit https://KearneySustainableHousing.org.
We're also offering naming opportunities for each of our six apartments and the building itself—a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy while supporting this mission. We accept cash, check, stock donations, and more. To learn more about naming opportunities or donating through alternative means, contact us at Contact@KearneySustainableHousing.org.
To every donor who has contributed to this campaign: you are building more than apartments—you are building opportunity, stability, and hope for six families and our entire community. Whether your gift was $25 or $25,000, you are part of this achievement.
