Papillion, Neb., Jan. 28, 2025 – Midlands Community Foundation’s Gala 2025, held on January 18 at the Astro Theater in La Vista, raised over $175,000. More than 425 organizations and individuals supported the gala. Net proceeds from the event will support the needs of non-profit organizations that provide programs and services in Sarpy and Cass counties in the areas of art, community and economic development, education, health, and human services.
At the event, the 2025 Reflection Award was presented to Nancy and Jim Thompson by Rick Iske, MCF Board President and Jan Davis, member of the MCF Board of Directors. Michelle and Doug Kindig served as the Honorary Chairs for the event. Though they were unable to attend in-person, Mayor Kindig shared a recorded message of congratulations as part of the Thompsons' introduction.
Both Nancy and Jim were educators in their early careers, and they served on the committee that chartered the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation in 1986, which continues to enhance the Papillion La Vista Community Schools today. Their work continued to enrich the community even after their careers in education. Jim worked at Pinnacle Bank in Papillion, retiring after 28 years of service. Jim was elected to the Papillion La Vista School District’s Board of Education, the Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties, and the Sarpy County Board of Commissioners. Nancy became the first woman elected to the Sarpy County Board of Commissioners, and then served as a State Senator for District 14 in the Nebraska State Legislature. She later served as CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, and then as CEO of the Health Center Association of Nebraska. "Their dedication and contributions are truly remarkable," said Diane Knicky, Executive Director. "We are grateful for their unwavering support of Midlands Community Foundation and our community."
The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.
(2025 Reflection Award Recipients Nancy and Jim Thompson pictured with MCF Board President Rick Iske and MCF Executive Director Diane Knicky)
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