What we’ve been up to…

Since being founded in 2017, McKenna’s Rae of Hope has been heavily involved in a variety of projects. When you donate, volunteer, or attend one of our events, you’re supporting a tireless effort to improve the mental health and awareness of Kearney and the surrounding communities. We’re very proud of the work we have done and the impact we have made. If you’d like to be a part of this mission, please consider donating or volunteering.

Children’s Nebraska Behavioral Health Urgent Care

In 2024, McKenna’s Rae of Hope contributed $50,000 to help open the Children’s Nebraska Behavioral Health Urgent Care in Kearney, Nebraska. A facility like this has been one of the foundation’s key goals since its founding.

This is the first clinic of its kind in Nebraska. It is dedicated to helping anyone 2 - 22 years old experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis by providing immediate access to care.

Hope Squad

McKenna’s Rae of Hope helped Kearney High School, Sunrise Middle School, and Horizon Middle School implement Hope Squad, which elevates mental wellbeing through peer-to-peer suicide prevention programming.

With Hope Squad, 95% of students report knowing how and where to get help for their peers, and 98% of school administrators agree Hope Squad promotes a positive school climate.

Lopes for Hope

McKenna’s Rae of Hope has started a campus organization at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, called Lopes for Hope. This student-run group organizes mental health events for college students and shares resources with their peers.

“We are an organization that is trying to reduce the stigma around mental health and spread mental health awareness. We put on events and bring in speakers like Wes Woodson and help people know that they are enough and that this is a safe space for them. I really hope that students know that they are not alone and that they deserve to be here and that they are loved. Whenever we have events, you all are welcome to come and we would love to have you.”

Taylor Paul |Vice President of the Executive Team for Lopes for Hope

Speaker Programs

McKenna’s Rae of Hope brings speakers on mental health and kindness to many schools across NE.

25,000+

students have taken part in these events as of 2024.

Mental Health First Aid Training

We have funded and organized Mental Health First Aid Training for area law enforcement, first responders, teachers, and community members.

Mental Health First Aid is a course that teaches how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The training gives the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis.

McKenna’s Rae of Hope has helped provide funds and guidance for Kearney Public School’s “#BeKind” program, which encourages students to treat one another with empathy, kindness, and respect through different events and learning opportunities.

Counseling Support

McKenna’s Rae of Hope is also proud to financially support community programs to provide counseling services to students in area schools. Bringing professionals to children who need them is an essential part of acting on our mission.

Scholarships

$45,000

McKenna’s Rae of Hope has given out over $45,000 in scholarships to students pursuing mental health fields and to students who are nominated for being a leader of HOPE in their school community.

Check back later for information about our 2025 scholarship applications!

And more…

As a member of the central Nebraska community since 2017, McKenna’s Rae of Hope has made a big impact with more projects, such as:

  • We host multiple annual events that have become a staple of life in Kearney over the years. From ‘86 the Stigma - a free and public fair dedicated to reducing the stigma around mental health conversations, to the Moxie Gala, an annual fundraising dinner and party for donors to learn more about our community impact and become more educated on the issues.

  • From billboards to bracelets, MROH has provided information about the Suicide Lifeline (988) and reminded everyone that they belong.

  • During the Covid-19 pandemic, MROH provided thousands of free meals over months of weekly efforts. We handed out mental health resourcing information and checked in on those dealing with loneliness during the lockdown.

  • Every December since our inception, MROH has hung Orna - Mental Health Awareness ornaments across the entire city of Kearney. The local mall and senior center have also been decorated with our teal and purple Christmas trees, providing literature on mental health options nearby.

  • And so much more. Please reach out if you have an idea where McKenna’s Rae of Hope can help your community.