The Hope Center for Kids is celebrating 20 years of serving youth and children in the area.
The Center exists and continues to thrive because of founders Ty and Terri Schenzel. Their vision to provide support and a safe place for youth and children who could not see beyond their circumstances.
The couple died in a horrific car crash in South Dakota in August 2015. Despite the tragic loss, the Center celebrated the Schenzel's 20 years of contributions to youth at the 20th Birthday 2018 Gala at CHI Health Center Friday evening.
"Tonight is about being grateful, being excited about what's to come, and just celebrating what the Lord has done at the Hope Center," said Turner Schenzel, son of Ty and Terri. "I hope the Center continues on wherever the Lord wants to take it. That was the wish in my parents' hearts. To serve the city and carry God's heart for the city."
Executive Director Brenda Block says the work done at the center during the past two decades has made a great impact in the area.
"Graduation rates in North Omaha have increased dramatically and we've seen a decrease in violent crimes so we're really excited to be a part of that story and part of the great things happening in Omaha," said Block.
Block added the Center has been looking for a new site to expand and will launch a pilot site on the Holy Name Campus for a limited number of kids to see if it's a good fit so the Center can potentially help at least another 100 kids in the area.
The organization serves over 2,700 children and their families each year.
