The BAY

The BAY is a 501c3 non-profit headquartered at 2005 Y Street that works with some of the highest-risk populations in Lincoln. These youth have multi-dimensional needs and face intergenerational debilitating barriers, as well as biological and psychological challenges.

Many of the children have been abused and face ongoing environmental challenges and trauma. Negative and high-risk behaviors are difficult to overcome unless extensive investments are made by human service programs, funding bodies, and communities.

Experts believe that a significant population growth in the next five years means a corresponding increase in the frequency and severity of these problems for high-risk youth - not just for themselves, but also for society in general.

Despite these predictions, public and private funding continues to decline.

Consequently, The BAY's objective is to be proactive and forward thinking. Our organization aims to create long-range opportunities for these youth. Research states that high-risk children who succeeded against the odds had the opportunity to establish close bonds with competent, emotionally stable persons who are sensitive to their needs.

The BAY connects Lincoln's youth with positive activities, and moreover, positive role models for the long-term. We feel that this is the exact type of programming that can make a profound difference in the lives of our youth.

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Since our move to 2005 Y Street in March 2013, we have dedicated ourselves to offering programs of this type:

-Skate For Change, a nationwide movement that encourages youth to utilize their skateboards as a vessel for homeless outreach and community betterment

-A weekly Skate School for youth to learn the basics of skateboarding

-A tri-weekly Girls' Club headed up by I've Got a Name (IGAN) and Young Life, where young, at-risk girls can meet with IGAN staff and Young Life mentors

-A full-time youth outreach worker who dedicates her time to helping young girls that are at risk of prostitution and/or human trafficking

-A monthly partnership with the Food Bank of Lincoln for food distributions headed up by local youth

-Multiple First Monday and First Friday art exhibits featuring artwork from local youth

-A job fair (May 2014) for local teens and young adults to connect with local businesses, submit resumes, and do job interviews on-site

-A dedicated space for music lessons, band practice, and a concert venue for up and coming musicians

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Donations of any amount will be put towards funding programs like these at The BAY, which will make them more frequent and efficient. Your tax-deductible donation during Give to Lincoln Day will also go towards creating new opportunities to engage our city's youth and help cultivate their passions.

Our immediate goals include completing the construction of our formal art space, concert venue and coffee shop, the latter of which will offer job training to at-risk girls who have been in abusive relationships or victims of human trafficking.

Thanks in advance for any donation you can give! Please stop in and visit us when you have the chance!