Family Newsletter February 2026

 

Advocacy Update

Connected Roots Care Center's advocacy goals include building a broad, non-partisan coalition of state senators and advocacy partners committed to our work. This will cement CRCC as a voice of innovative, coordinated care for the families we serve. Our agency supports a strong and efficient system of public supports like special education, childcare, and Medicaid. Of course, none of the amazing work we do can happen without a strong and supported staff of childcare and medical professionals making it happen. Connected Roots advocacy recognizes the importance of our staff and will advocate for policies that support our incredible workforce and their chosen professions. 


View Our 2026 Bills to Watch


Legislative Session Overview

This year's legislative session is a "short session" lasting just 60 working days. The biggest issue before elected legislators is closing a $471 million budget deficit to maintain Nebraska's requirement for a balanced budget and fully funded rainy-day fund. In tough budget years like this there is usually a focus on social issues and defending against cuts to programs and public funding. Successful new initiatives will be at no cost or low cost. CRCC will advocate against potential cuts to Health and Human Services programs and services that benefit families we serve.  

NW Renovation

The largest phase of our northwest renovation is nearly complete! All areas shown in green have been refreshed and upgraded, representing more than half of the building’s total square footage.

 

We are incredibly grateful for your flexibility and patience throughout construction. We know the extra noise, movement, and adjustments have not always been easy, and your support has helped keep everything moving forward.

We’re Hiring!

We’re currently hiring in multiple areas across the organization and would love your help spreading the word. If you have friends or family members who share our mission and might be a great fit for our team, please encourage them to check out our open positions. Great people often come from trusted connections.

Child Care & School Readiness Tax Credits

Nebraska’s refundable Child Care Tax Credit for parents and guardians can ease the strain on families and make providing for their little ones just a little bit easier. Learn more!


You work hard for the children and families who depend on you. The refundable School Readiness Tax Credit rewards and encourages child care professionals like you to develop in their careers and grow a stronger early childhood workforce in Nebraska. Learn more!

 
 
 
 

Calendar

 

February is Black History Month

During February, we will be highlighting Black trailblazers and learning opportunities happening in the classroom. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram!


Rare Disease Day

Saturday, February 28

Rare Disease Day is a globally coordinated movement dedicated to rare diseases, striving for equity in social opportunities, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease. Since its creation in 2008, Rare Disease Day has played a crucial role in building an international rare disease community—multi-disease, global, and diverse, yet united in purpose.


Rare Disease Day is observed every year on 28 February (or 29 February in leap years—the rarest day of the year). Learn more here and remember to wear your colors on February 28!

All-Staff Meeting - CRCC Closed

April 1


Spring Break - CRCC Closed

April 2 & 3

Community Events

Down Syndrome Alliance Hockey Event

Join the DSA Community as we cheer on the UNO Mavericks at a hockey game! Discounted tickets are only $5 per person for sections 112 and 108. No promo code needed, just follow the link and select your seats!

Introducing Relaxed Screenings!

In partnership with Common Senses Festival, Film Streams is having Relaxed Screenings in order to create a more welcoming, inclusive cinema experience for all audiences. These screenings, clearly marked on our website, will include raised lighting, lowered volume levels, open caption subtitles, and we invite patrons to feel free to vocalize and move around during the film. Check out FilmStreams.org/RelaxedScreenings for more info and the upcoming schedule.

World Autism Day

Mark your calendar for April 4 from Noon-2 p.m. at Gene Leahy Mall at The River Front Registration for the event will open on Friday, March 6!

 
 

Community Partners

 

Follow Us on Social

We share a lot of great content on our Facebook and Instagram pages! Give us a follow so you can share in the fun stuff happening at both centers!


Project Harmony Podcast

In the Hope Champions Podcast, we explore what hope is, how it can be measured, and practical ways to integrate it into everyday life. Join us for meaningful conversations that inspire healing, resilience, and growth.


Season two is now live! Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to tune in as we talk about how to utilize Hope in your everyday lives. New episodes drop every other Monday at 8 AM CST.


RFK Jr. Overhauls Federal Autism Panel