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For a child, belief starts small.

With a community. A family. 

Someone to believe in them, growing their trust in the world. 

But when adversity or trauma forces them to grow up too soon, they begin to lose that sense of belief. 

They come to know a world where safety and stability are conditional.  

At CEDARS, we show them it doesn’t have to be that way. 

Since 1947, we’ve been here. 

Choosing not to ignore challenges. Adapting to fit the need. 

Helping rebuild trust in relationships. And finding solutions for kids and families, no matter the circumstances. 

It’s the driving force behind everything we do. 

Because we believe in them. 

Unconditionally.  


If you are experiencing an immediate crisis situation, call the National Crisis Hotline at 800-448-3000.



I Became A Foster Parent, And You Can Too

“I love my boys,” says Carmen Arguello.

Carmen became a foster mom to her nephew’s two children when they were experiencing a crisis situation.

“It was scary,” she says. “There was a knock at my door. The kids were hungry and [their dad] didn’t have anyone he could turn to.”

Kids come into foster care for a variety of reasons. Ultimately, CEDARS goal is to either safely reunite children with their families or help find a permanent home for them. Until these goals can be achieved, foster families give kids stability and room to grow as individuals.

With offices in Lincoln and Bellevue, Nebraska-based CEDARS has been serving children and families for over 70 years. The CEDARS Foster Care team works every day to ensure that over 200 foster children and youth flourish in loving families. Because foster parents are an integral part of the CEDARS professional team, they are equipped with exceptional training, have access to support 24/7, monthly support groups and quarterly gatherings for foster families.

“I don’t think they have to be your blood to take in these children,” says Carmen. “There are so many kids that need family that will just love them and take them in their home. There are so many great resources out there to help families do it. I’m doing it. And it’s all through CEDARS.”

CEDARS staff walk alongside children and families every step of the way. With encouragement, guidance and direction, the team has the honor of watching lives change.

It is important to know that there is no typical CEDARS foster family. CEDARS foster families include parents with children at home, single adults, and empty nesters. To help, all you need is a stable home, an open heart and a willingness to reach out to a child in need.

“Even though they’ve been through a whole lot, they are normal kids just like any other normal kid that have a mommy and daddy around. I am their mom. It’s the best thing that’s happened in my life.”

If you have ever considered fostering and would like more information, fill out our foster parent information request form. It's quick and simple, and we'll get back to you with more information!