In a heartwarming celebration of Global Youth Service Day, students from the Lakeview Community Learning Center and Roper After-School Programs came together for a project that blended compassion, creativity, and community service.
The event featured a special visit from Miss Sydney and her four-legged companion Daisy, representing the Capital Humane Society (CHS). Sydney shared insights into the organization’s vital role in rescuing, caring for, and re-homing animals throughout the region. Her stories struck a chord with the students, who were inspired to make a difference for their furry neighbors in need.
Fueled by enthusiasm and a sense of purpose, the students dove into their hands-on service project: crafting soft, colorful tie-blankets for the animals awaiting adoption at the shelter. These handmade gifts will provide much-needed comfort and warmth to the shelter pets while they await their forever homes.
This project was made possible thanks to generous support from Youth Service America (YSA) and The Hershey Company, who funded the materials and made this day of service and learning a reality.
As the students continue to work on completing the blankets, the excitement is growing for the day they get delivered to CHS, a moment that promises to be as rewarding for the students as it will be for the animals.
Global Youth Service Day is all about empowering young people to make meaningful contributions to their communities, and thanks to their dedication and the support of caring partners, the students at Lakeview and Roper did just that—one blanket at a time.
On a picture-perfect spring afternoon, our Preschool and Pre-k families joined us at Willard Community Center for a special National Picnic Day celebration, and we couldn’t have asked for a better day!
Families arrived with blankets, lunchboxes, and big smiles, ready to enjoy some fresh air and quality time together. The sun was shining, laughter filled the air, and the joy of community was unmistakable. Teachers, children, and families shared stories, snacks, and sunshine in the spirit of connection and fun.
We are so grateful to everyone who took time out of their busy day to join us. Events like these remind us of the incredible community we have at Willard, one that supports one another, celebrates together, and always finds time to make memories.
Thank you again to all who joined us. We loved sharing the lunch hour with you, and we can’t wait to picnic again soon!
Willard’s Neighborhood Garage Sale
Join us Saturday, May 3, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM in the Willard Community Center parking lot for a day of bargain hunting and treasure finding!
You’ll find everything from children’s toys and games to home décor, craft items, and so much more, including goods from other community members who are clearing out their clutter! And, don't forget to check out the annual porch and house plant fundraiser!
Want to sell your own items? Reserve a parking stall today!
Call or email Sarah at 402-475-0805 | willard@willardcommunitycetner.org to claim your spot.
Come shop, sell, and connect with the community!
April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re celebrating the amazing individuals who give their time, talents, and hearts to Willard! 
Throughout the year, our volunteers contribute countless hours to support our programs, events, and day-to-day operations. Whether helping with youth activities, senior programs, maintenance projects, or special events, their dedication makes a lasting impact on our community.
Thank you to each and every volunteer who helps us carry out our mission! 
To volunteer, contact Sarah at sarahr@willardcommunitycenter.org
Or drop off the volunteer application packet to get started!
Clear Out Clutter & Make Some Cash!
Doing some spring cleaning? Have items you no longer need?
Rent a parking lot stall for just $25 (or 2 stalls for $45) and sell your stuff at our community-wide garage sale!
🗓 Date: Friday, May 3
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (set up at 7:00 AM)
📍 Location: Willard Community Center Parking Lot
Stalls are limited – reserve yours today!
📞 Call Sarah at 402-475-0805
📧 Email: willard@willardcommunitycenter.org
Don't miss this chance to turn your clutter into cash!
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We are incredibly grateful to Youth Service America and The Hershey Company for selecting Willard Community Center as a recipient of a $500 grant in support of our after-school programs at Lakeview and Roper Elementary!
Thanks to this generous funding, our after-school participants will be able to complete a special community service project, making tie-blankets for the animals at the Capital Humane Society. This project not only gives our youth a chance to give back but also teaches compassion, teamwork, and the joy of helping others (furry friends included 
).
Thank you for helping us empower our youth to make a difference!
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On April 8, the Lakeview CLC basketball league faced off against the Pershing CLC team. It was a slam dunk match-up with hustle and heart from both teams! 
Want to catch more of the action? Don’t miss our next matchups:
April 15 at West Lincoln
April 22 at Belmont
Tip-off for the girls’ game is at 4:30 PM (two 12-minute halves), followed by the boys bringing the heat right after. Come out and support; let’s make some noise from the sidelines!
Thank you to Troop 55 for respectfully retiring our old, tattered flag and replacing it with a new one.
On April 7, Troop 55 graciously helped us remove the old flag and put up a new one with dignity and respect.
We truly appreciate your service and dedication to honoring our nation’s symbols, and we’re grateful for your commitment to community and country. 
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Reminder: The Food Bank of Lincoln Fresh Truck will be at Schroder Park Wellness Campus tomorrow, April 8, from 10:30–11:30 AM.
This week, the truck will be parked on the west end of the parking lot, and tables will be set up on the court nearby. The distribution line will run in front of the park. (See the map below.)
Fresh produce distribution is free and open to everyone!
Save the Date!
Willard’s 3rd Annual Porch & House Plant Fundraiser is just around the corner!
Dates & Times:
May 2 | 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
May 3 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Come browse over 100 beautiful plants, from starters to thriving, mature houseplants, all ready to brighten your home or porch!
100% of the proceeds benefit Willard’s Adult & Senior Program, so every plant you purchase helps support our amazing community!
Spread the word and bring a friend! 
