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Local nonprofit opens counseling center for domestic‑violence survivors; council hears progress report
Summary
Light of Restoration Foundation described its first year operating a leased downtown Lincoln facility that offers counseling, support groups and a kids' play area for domestic violence survivors; the foundation seeks donations, grocery/retail partnerships and a long‑term shelter partnership and is negotiating to buy its leased building.
Representatives of the Light of Restoration Foundation presented a progress report to the Lincoln City Council on June 10, describing the nonprofit’s first year operating a leased downtown facility that provides counseling, support groups and a food program for survivors of domestic violence.
Cofounder Carmen Urthaneta described the leased property (5780 E Street, Downtown Lincoln, leased from Tamara and David Rogers) and recent interior renovations: four private offices, an auditorium used for classes, a reception area, a kids’ play area and space for support groups. "Our mission is to rescue you by offering you a safe place to be able to listen to you, counsel you, and empower you, to restore you," Urthaneta told council.
Nut graf: The foundation reported serving couples, individual women and men and children through counseling, support groups and referrals. Staff and volunteers said they have worked with about 22 married couples in group or individual counseling and are currently working with four women individually; they said about 38 children have been served with child‑focused therapy or programming. The foundation also listed local partners and small donations including a $50 gift card from Raley’s and outreach to prospective donors such as Safeway, Target and Walmart for food and essentials.
Services and capacity Speakers described programs including psychoeducation on the cycle of domestic violence, individual counseling, parenting supports and a food bank coordinated with Panera Bread donations. The foundation said the auditorium is used for classes and the facility includes a play area while staff provide supervision for children during sessions. A licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical social worker are listed on the team; the foundation also listed administrative and technical staff.
Shelter and partnerships Council members asked whether the foundation had connected with existing shelter providers. Urthaneta said the foundation had not yet established a formal shelter partnership but intended to pursue connections (councilmember suggested Acres of Hope as a potential partner). The foundation said it is in discussions with the building owners about purchasing the property and that a meeting with the owners was scheduled this week to discuss funding options; the owners have, the presenters reported, put the building up for sale.
Public testimony One client offered brief testimony, saying the counseling helped her recognize nonphysical forms of abuse and that the foundation’s programming had been a blessing. Council members thanked the foundation, asked about outreach to school districts and the police department and encouraged referral partnerships.
Ending The foundation requested continued council, community and business support for donations and partnerships; staff said they would keep council updated on purchase negotiations, shelter partnerships and outreach to schools and other agencies.
