Hope in the Good Life Podcast

In the aftermath of the fall of Saigon in 1975, Lincoln was designated a "Refugee Friendly" city. This designation marked the beginning of a thriving Vietnamese community that continues to leave a lasting impact on Lincoln and the state. CSS helped resettle 257 Vietnamese refugees within the Diocese of Lincoln that year, mostly in Lincoln but also in Hastings. Among those first arrivals was Alex Tran, who was around 10 years old when his family, along with more than 20 relatives, arrived in Lincoln. Alex reminisces with us about that escape from his home country and what that experience was like through the eyes of a child.

You're invited to join CSS for a Sustainability Open House on April 24, 2025. Director of Sustainability, Jamie Carson, tells us this engaging event aims to highlight CSS's ongoing sustainability efforts, foster community feedback, and promote environmental stewardship, with a special focus on youth, families, and teachers.

Bill and Stacie Hooks have always believed in the importance of giving back as a way to show gratitude for the blessings in their lives. As the owners of Slim Chickens restaurants in Lincoln, they have been dedicated supporters of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska for years. This year, their generosity continues as they proudly serve as the silent auction sponsor (https://events.handbid.com/lp/celebration-of-hope-auction) for the Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction on March 15. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and the impact they're making in the community!

At this year's 38th Annual Celebration of Hope Gala, we are privileged to honor a true example of servant leadership. Mike Hosek has been named the recipient of the CSS Heart of Christ Award, and in this podcast, you'll hear how his early experiences shaped his commitment to leadership and service. Discover how Mike has brought more Hope in the Good Life to those served through the CSS Food Market and Meal Services Program. His story is a powerful reminder that living out the Gospel doesn't require changing the whole world at once—it simply calls us to keep saying yes to the opportunities before us.

While the potential impact from the Trump administration on refugee programs is still uncertain, CSS remains committed to serving the needs of all vulnerable individuals within our community. In this podcast, we hear about the hope provided by CSS to people who we have served through our Refugee Resettlement program. Once they are “welcomed home,” CSS does much to provide a real home.

Hear how supporters of the St. Gianna Program at CSS and other Pregnancy Help Organizations can earn more than just a tax deduction thanks to recently enacted legislation called the Nebraska Pregnancy Help Act that creates a win-win for all involved.

What does it mean to be a part of the CSS Legacy of Hope Society? It means that through your generosity, you can support CSS in different ways, long into the future. Chris Raun of the Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska explains several financial strategies designed to not only support CSS but also provide tax breaks to benefit you and/or your family.

“It saved my life being here,” says Stephanie and current resident of St. Gianna Women's Home in Lincoln. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Stephanie talks about her life as a victim of domestic violence that included having her leg run over by a truck, black eyes, bruised ribs, being strangled, and a lot of verbal abuse - all things she began to accept as normal in a relationship. Now she has a full-time job, people at St. Gianna's she calls family, and a whole different outlook on life that is full of hope.

CSS is celebrating TWO DECADES of southeastern Nebraska HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE on October 5. We'll have food trucks, face painting, fun contests/freebies, and more. Auburn Regional Director April Boellstorff joins us to talk a little about the history of St. Francis Gift and Thrift and why it is such a special place for those in need in southeast Nebraska.

A little over 25 years ago, John Brooks was invited to be a volunteer at Hastings Catholic Social Services. Despite a disability that has caused him to use of a scooter to get around, he still has the same joy and drive to bring Hope in the Good Life to those we serve. John will be honored for his volunteerism with the Love of Christ Award at the Hastings CSS Bountiful Harvest Celebration on September 29. In this podcast, John talks about why he loves to help feed those in need and what he gets back in return.

During challenging times, it's essential to reflect on our blessings and consider sharing them with others. Including CSS in your will, trust, or other financial plans is an act of love and stewardship, creating a Legacy of Hope. In this podcast, we preview our Legacy of Hope presentation at CSS in Lincoln on August 22 at 7 pm. Scott Yates from the Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska gives us an idea of what you can do to have peace of mind and ensure that your values and priorities are honored long after you've left this earth.

The 2024 Walk to End Hunger event August 4 has a goal of 35,000 pounds of food and dollars to support the CSS Food Market in Lincoln. Organizer Mike Hosek and Food Market Manager Kristina Brandl talk about how that goal will be reached and how desperate the need is to nourish our neighbors and bring Hope in the Good Life.

“Our world is experiencing a mental health crisis. Anxiety and depression weigh heavily on the lives of many people.” So says Bishop James Conley of the Diocese of Lincoln as he talks about his own battle with mental health and how his recovery is ongoing. In this interview, he also talks about why there can be A Future with Hope, as reflected in his recent pastoral letter of the same name.

Several local businesses have come together to present a used vehicle along with money they raised for a family who recently endured the heartbreaking loss of their unborn child following an auto accident that also totaled their car. CSS teamed up with a group called BNI to provide this hope on wheels, and Kendall Warnock of A1 Automotive and Todd Speidell of Eustis Body Shop tell us how fulfilling it is to bring this Hope in the Good Life.

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) has greatly benefited from its longstanding partnership with Sandhills Global. Jim Hansen, Outreach Coordinator for Sandhills Global, emphasizes how their mission aligns with CSS in providing "Hope in the Good Life” for many across Nebraska.

If it wasn't for our volunteers, CSS would not be able to accomplish the works of mercy for so many through our various programs and services. In honor of National Volunteer Week, Mike and Aggie Gesch talk about their work as volunteers in the CSS Lincoln Food Market, and the fact that they are both inspired and humbled to help provide more Hope in the Good Life to so many.

Whenever you put an ‘e' in front of something, it usually means ‘electronic.' When it comes to Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) and our e-commerce offerings, the ‘e' could also mean evangelize, extra, and environmental. CSS Director of E-commerce Mario Racicot talks about how his work fits in with the CSS core value of Sustainability.

Discover the Vincentians and their collaboration with Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) to instill Hope in the Good Life. Larry Ellerbeck, both a Vincentian and the president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society's Lincoln Chapter, shares insights into how his team engages with individuals in their homes. Collaborating with CSS, they offer assistance with utilities, rent payments, food, furniture, gas, and beds. To learn more about joining the Vincentians, reach out to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at contact@lincolnsvdpcouncil.org or connect with your local parish. Individuals in need can contact 402-HELP YOU (402-435-7968) for assistance.

Sandra's face is the first one many of our clients see at CSS; She, in turn, sees the face of Christ in every neighbor who comes to us for help. As a point of first contact, CSS Lincoln Office Manager Sandra Svajdlenka greets our agency's clients, discerns their needs, and connects them with resources. And, in one very blessed instance, she became a Godmother, too. In this podcast, Sandra shares several powerful stories of the hope she brings to people, the hope she gets in return from those she serves, and how we can work together to inspire hope and love in every encounter.

How does a wife and a mother of nine kids find time to even think about volunteering and making a difference in the lives of others? Emily Villa tells us how in this uplifting and tearful witness to the power of finding beauty, dignity, and even fun in the little things that can make a big difference in the lives of others. Emily, her husband Mike, and her family will be honored at the CSS Celebration of Hope dinner on February 25 as recipients of the Heart of Christ Award. Emily tells us how she learned that when serving others, she's also being served by God.

St. Gianna Program Manager Veronica Hotovy talks about how we all need to be surrounded by a little love in order to find hope now and in the future. That's what the St. Gianna Program (SGP) does for women escaping domestic violence. To help support that program, Carole Fest will take place on December 10th to raise funds for this vital program. Veronica tells us why it's important to support SGP and how it nurtures "Hope in the Good Life."

He's been a "bean counter" for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) for 24 years, and he's still amazed at what those beans have done for CSS. Bill Meduna talks about his time with CSS as Vice President of Operations, and why this agency is such a great place to work.

Katie Patrick, the Executive Director of CSS, discusses the recently unveiled transformation of the CSS headquarters in Lincoln. This extensive renovation and expansion project has introduced elements designed to enhance the facility's overall appeal, creating a more inviting and hospitable environment that promises to be a noteworthy addition to the capital city.

Bill Murphy fervently advocates for volunteering with Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, extending his recommendation to everyone he encounters. He cherishes his volunteering experiences because, in the face of his faltering eyesight, he can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who require assistance. This dedication has earned Bill the prestigious Life of Christ Award, which will be presented to him at this year's Bountiful Harvest Dinner in Hastings on October 8. In this podcast, Bill shares his story of how he discovered CSS, and how he's helping others "see" hope as a volunteer.

We find Hope in the Good Life in southcentral Nebraska, and in the art being produced by Sondra Jonson. She owns SL Jonson Studios in Cambridge, Nebraska, and has donated much of her art to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, and other charities. Like CSS, her art provides Hope to those who may be inspired by her creations. As a supporter of CSS, she talks about the importance of giving back, and in doing so, providing the hope so many need. (See her work at www.sljonsonstudios.com.)

In this episode of our Hope in the Good Life podcast, we take a walk to end hunger… or at least HEAR about how we can Walk to End Hunger on August 6, 2023, in Lincoln! Mike Hosek tells us how he coordinates this annual event to benefit the CSS Lincoln Food Market. CSS Food Market Program Manager Doris Schueth shares why this event, and the CSS Food Market in general, is a nourishing source of HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE for our neighbors needing a hand-up.

This year's Catholic Social Services Memorial Golf Classic and Auction is being held in memory of Jose Quintero, a long-time volunteer who passed away in June of 2021. His wife Mary joins John Soukup in this podcast to share some stories of this amazing man, and how a flower reminds her that Jose is watching over her to this day, providing a special message of Hope in the Good Life.

Abdulrazzak Alkoutaini, or "Abdul," is a refugee from war-torn Syria. While starting a new life in a new country can be hard, he said when he and his family were greeted with the words "Welcome Home" by a CSS refugee case worker after arriving in Lincoln, the fear of the unknown disappeared. He is now a CSS refugee case worker himself, and he continues to use those same words when greeting new Nebraskans as he helps them start their new lives.

''Love and sacrifice are closely linked, like the sun and the light. We cannot love without suffering and we cannot suffer without love.'' That quote from St. Gianna reflects the work of the Marian Sisters who are advocates for the women escaping domestic violence and live at St. Gianna Women's Home. From this 24 unit apartment complex in Lincoln, we hear how Sr. Carol, Sr. Karen, and Sr. Bernadette help these women and families experience love for themselves, and make the necessary sacrifices to build better lives and find Hope in the Good Life.

Diana Amaya didn't know six years ago that getting a food pantry from Hastings Catholic Social Services would eventually change her life. This survivor of domestic violence is now helping others find Hope in the Good Life as a bilingual emergency services coordinator and case manager for Hastings CSS. Diana tells us how the Holy Spirit guided her to where she is today.

Dr. Don Foote needed to get out of the house. His wife had died a few years ago and he needed to keep busy in order to stave off loneliness. Working in the CSS workshop, which he calls St. Joseph's Workshop, provided the hope he needed to use his talents and benefit others. Now he provides Hope in the Good Life as a volunteer at Catholic Social Services in Hastings.

Shirley Lang has humbly made a difference over the years. This year's Heart of Christ Award winner has worked with Catholic Social Services (CSS) over the years, having young women who chose life for their children stay with her during and after their pregnancies. Her love for His children extended to refugees fleeing violence. Years ago, CSS encountered a teenage boy who arrived from Cambodia and was living on the street. Shirley and her family opened their home to this young man, who stayed with the Langs for more than two years. Hear how she felt so compelled to reflect the heart of Christ through the years.

In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform each year.

In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.

In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.

In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.

For almost 20 years, Kevin Murray has been raising money for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska with his trumpet. He heads up "Trumpet Fest," taking place on February 19th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln. Kevin tells us how this event not only inspires but also gives back in so many different ways through the gift of music.

Since 2010, Kay Wessel has been providing hope in the good life one diaper at a time throughout southern Nebraska. The diaper drives she's helped to organize through the years have resulted in more than a million diapers going to needy families. Kay tells us what inspired her to start this project and how it has gotten national and international attention.

After retiring from a successful professional career, John White wanted to find a way to give back to the community. Passionate about immigration and migration issues and following Catholic social teaching with regard to welcoming the stranger and the dignity of the human person, he chose to volunteer at CSS. He tells us how his work in cultural orientation is fulfilling.

Lindsay was in an abusive relationship, but knew there had to be a way out. She knew that God wanted something more for her and her son, so she prayed for a solution, and soon found St. Gianna Women's Homes.

Ameer Damanhoury didn't know much about CSS when we first met. The more he learned about the services we provide, the more compelled he felt to give back. The importance of giving back was something his mother taught him when he was a child through her example of helping the poor. Join Ameer in supporting our work by donating online at csshope.org/donate.

Roy and Charlene Diers will be honored with the Love of Christ Award at the Hastings Catholic Social Services Bountiful Harvest Banquet on October 30, 2022. Charlene talks about how a saint inspires she and her husband to do the small things that make a big difference.

Born in a refugee camp in Africa, Nyabuoy Chan never imagined moving to America as a young adult to start a new life. She now uses that experience in her role as a CSS Refugee Resettlement and Senior Case Manager to help others find hope in the good life in Lincoln, a city she calls very friendly and welcoming to new arrivals.

Elaine Wagener has been a "greedy" volunteer at Catholic Social Services for more than a dozen years. Greedy, in the sense that she loves doing things that make her happy. Elaine tells us why she gets more out of volunteering than what she puts in.

Despite facing terminal cancer, Mary is not afraid of dying. She's not afraid because she's found hope in her faith and the love she and her young daughter feel from the people around them, including those at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska.

A nurse for over 35 years, Sherry was used to helping people. However, her generosity got her into financial trouble in retirement, and she could not pay her rent and other bills. Hear how Sherry got back on her feet by asking for help from Catholic Social Services and the Emergency Services program.

Steve Sousek is on a mission to fuse his love of running with his passion for the pro-life movement, supporting both unborn children and women in crisis. It's why he formed “Runborn,” and he is raising money for Catholic Social Services' St. Gianna Women's Homes(SGWH)and the Lincoln's Women's Care Center by “running for their lives” July 22-23, 2022. In this podcast, Steve talks about how he's helping to bring hope in the good life to these women and their unborn babies.

You are invited to Walk to End Hunger! John Soukup interviews Mike Hosek, coordinator of the August 7, 2022, event to raise funds and food for the CSS Food Market in Lincoln. The event is sponsored by BetterLife and Knights of Columbus Council 13576 (at St. Patrick Catholic Church). You can donate online at bit.ly/walk426-13576. To participate, email Mike at mikehosek72@hotmail.com or call 402.570.9294, or just show up the day of the event!

A group of young missionaries is in Lincoln, Nebraska, this summer that are committed to learning more about their Faith and themselves while serving the poor. They are bringing hope in the good life to our homeless friends and sharing their experience and expertise with CSS.

Recognized as a nationwide leader in the integration of contemporary scientific psychology and the Christian vision of the human person, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Counseling Center (IHMCC) is another avenue through which Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides "hope in the good life". Vice President of Clinical Services and licensed psychologist Dr. Courtney Miller talks about the wide array of services IHMCC provides.

Faheem Rashidi and his family came to this country from Afghanistan in 2000 and were resettled in Lincoln by Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Today, he is a successful businessman who shares his story of how he found hope in the good life.