Nordstrom Rack Treats Big Brothers Big Sisters Kids to Massive Shopping Spree
On Our Block: A Compilation of Inspiring Events, People and Stories
Nordstrom Rack, which opened at Village Pointe Shopping Center on Oct. 24, debuted in Omaha with a memorable shopping experience with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM). On Oct. 22, the company treated local “Littles” to a shopping spree with their families, each receiving a $400 gift card to spend on clothing.
Emma Beebe, marketing and outreach director with BBBSM, said this event is part of a longstanding relationship with Nordstrom Rack.
“In partnership with its customers, Nordstrom has contributed nearly $2 million over the past four years to support its long-standing collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America,” Beebe said. “These funds help recruit, train, and engage mentors and enable impactful mentorship activities, such as interview preparation, tie-tying lessons and homework support.”
The opportunity to shop for clothing is meaningful for those participating to help not only support their families but also build confidence through self-expression.
“This experience allows them to feel valued, share the excitement with loved ones, and contribute to their family’s needs, reinforcing bonds and showing that their choice matter,” she said.
If you’re interested in supporting BBBSM, the organization is currently seeking mentors, notably male mentors.
“We offer two unique mentoring programs tailored to fit different schedules and interests, giving volunteers flexibility in how they can make a difference,” Beebe said.
“With over 70% of our current waitlist being boys, the need for male mentors is particularly urgent. By stepping up as a mentor, you have the chance to positively influence a young person’s life, offering support, guidance, and friendship that can have a lasting impact.”
Heartwood Preserve Offering Free Ice-Skating Rink.
Photo credit: Heartwood Omaha
Omaha residents can enjoy free ice skating as part of Winterland at Heartwood Preserve. Located south of 144th Street and West Dodge Road at 301 N. 145th St., Omahans can reserve 90-minute ice-skating sessions through Jan. 5. Kristen Crawford, media liaison, said the winter event is part of a wide range of seasonal activities.
“This past August, we kicked off the first of many community events with Summer Saturdays, our free outdoor movie series,” she said. “With the holidays approaching, an ice-skating rink was a natural fit at Heartwood Park, along with the opportunity to be the only ice rink in West Omaha that is situated fully outdoors in a beautiful, natural setting and within walking distance to first-to-Omaha and local restaurants and retailers that offer unique shopping and culinary experiences.”
The free ice-skating sessions are courtesy of Applied Underwriters. Jeff Silver, executive vice president, shared the company’s motivation to fund the wintertime experience.
“Omaha has been good to us. We have lived and worked in this community for decades, and sponsoring Winterland at Heartwood Preserve is our company’s way of celebrating the holiday season with our Omaha neighbors,” Silver said. “We’re happy to provide a no-cost holiday event, including free skate rentals, skating sessions, and lots of fun holiday programming. We anticipate Winterland will become an area-favorite and holiday tradition for all people in Omaha.”
Applied Underwriters is partnering with local nonprofits and service groups to provide skating sessions for their events. Events include Live DJ Fridays, a Winterland Community Stage each Saturday, Sundays with Santa and Noon Year’s Eve.
“With a special blend of Midwestern charm, an incredibly vibrant culture, and true seasonal weather, the holidays in Omaha can be especially magical. Heartwood Preserve captures this seasonal wonder, offering a family-friendly destination where traditions are celebrated and memories are made,” Crawford said.