Tradition of Helping Children
CEDARS was founded in 1947, when Reverend Charles and Mrs. Alberta Danner began welcoming children from chaotic and unstable enviroments into their home. One small boy came first, and before long, the Danners had a new - and growing family of 22 children.
The Danner's cozy shelter was transformed into CEDARS Home for Children. With the help of many volunteers and community groups, including the Sertoma Club of Lincoln, CEDARS relocated from the Danner's home to a farm on East Pioneers Boulevard, where they constructed the three-story brick home that still welcomes children in need today.
When CEDARS merged with Youth Service System in 1996, children gained access to a wide array of programs under one umbrella. These programs ranged from emergency shelter and housing for pregnant teens to juvenile diversion and after-school services.
Today, CEDARS has an annual operating budget of $12 million, which supports 27 programs in Lincoln, Broken Bow and North Platte, and a staff of 350 child-caring professionals who care for 3,500 children and youth. CEDARS still remains firmly committed to the Danners' founding mission of helping every child find safety, stability and enduring family relationships.
