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Lincoln nonprofit Light of Restoration outlines services for domestic violence survivors and seeks partners
Summary
Light of Restoration Foundation co-founder Carmen Urnaneta presented a downtown Lincoln leased space and ongoing services for survivors of domestic violence, described counseling and support groups, and said the group is pursuing partnerships and a permanent shelter in future.
Carmen Urnaneta, co‑founder of the Light of Restoration Foundation, described the nonprofit’s first year of operation and its leased downtown Lincoln facility during a City Council presentation on June 10.
The organization provides counseling, support groups and a children’s therapy program for survivors of domestic violence. Urnaneta said the foundation has four private offices, a large auditorium for classes, a kitchen, two bathrooms and a children’s play area at its 578 E Street location. She said the group has helped 22 married couples, several individual clients and about 38 children in its first year.
“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,” Urnaneta said. She thanked donors, volunteers and business partners including Panera Bread, which the foundation said has provided food bank support. The foundation’s founding team includes Jose Ordaneta (president), licensed therapists and administrative staff listed in the presentation.
Council members asked about outreach to schools and local shelters. Staff and foundation members said they have not yet connected with Acres of Hope and are pursuing local housing referrals including Section 8 applications for clients. Urnaneta said the foundation is negotiating with the property owners, David and Tamara Rogers, about purchasing the leased building and has a meeting scheduled with them to discuss funding options.
Two clients spoke briefly at the end of the presentation and described receiving counseling and mental‑health support through the foundation. Council members praised the group’s work and suggested sharing flyers with schools and police and exploring partnerships with existing shelter providers.
No council action was required; the presentation served to inform council and the public about the foundation’s services and future goals, which include expanded outreach, fundraising, retail partnerships for donated goods and developing access to shelter placements for survivors.
