On occasion, I toss out lighthearted prompts to our team – especially when I’m looking for a little creative spark on social media content.
While preparing for this year’s Community Foundation Week, a yearly campaign across the country celebrating the impact that philanthropy – both big and small – has on the places we call home, it felt like the perfect moment to spotlight the dedication and heart that fuels everything we do year-round at the Lincoln Community Foundation.
The question I raised was...
If LCF was a superhero – what would our superpower be?
And the responses did not disappoint.
At first, I loved seeing everyone's imagination at work. However, the longer I sat with the questions, the more I was reminded just how special it is to do this work and how lucky I am to do it alongside my incredible colleagues.
For 70 years, LCF has served as a connector between generous people and the causes they care about most. We help donors invest in the future of neighbors they may never meet – building a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Through scholarships for students, grants that strengthen nonprofits and initiatives that make our community more vibrant and equitable – our mission is powered by the belief that we’re stronger together.
Community foundations are able to fuel long-term change, not just in moments of crisis but in the slow, steady work of each day.
So, what is LCF's superpower?
Here’s what a few of my colleagues had to say:
An invisible shield that surrounds the community and protects its people from harm.
- Tracy
Durability and agility – our deep connection to the community enables us to respond swiftly and pivot when necessary to address evolving needs.
- Susan
Convening people around issues and opportunities to help Lincoln thrive.
- Sandi
Shape shifting – we have the power to address complex issues like housing and childcare while still remaining steadfast in our stewardship of community gifts.
- Jenny
For me, it’s not mind reading or time manipulation (although they would come in handy on event days).
I believe our superpower is turning individual acts of generosity into collective good.
At LCF we measure success by the quality of life achieved for people today and generations to come. We know our story isn’t defined by a single project or initiative, but by donors who believe in possibility, nonprofits who meet needs with heart and innovation and community members who show up with ideas, compassion and a shared commitment to building a better Lincoln.
Together, we transform hope into action – making Lincoln a place where everyone can be a superhero in someone’s story.
