By Corbin Hubbell
Social Media Coordinator
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) marked a milestone on their journey of service Oct. 14.
The CSS headquarters in Lincoln opened its doors for an open house and tour, marking the completion of an expansion and renovation project aimed at addressing the increasing needs from the community.
Katie Patrick, executive director of CSS since 2021, explained the driving force behind this project.
“We don’t serve because our clients are Catholic; we serve because we are Catholic.”
Editor's note: See slideshow of photos.
The words encapsulate the heart of CSS’s mission, and the expansion project embodies the organization’s commitment to the mission.
The project became a necessity because of the growing need for CSS’s various programs. From revamped waiting rooms to improved breakfast and lunch program spaces, the renovations have enhanced CSS’s ability to serve the community. CSS also incorporated advanced security measures to ensure the well-being of everyone who visits the facility.
The waiting room was redesigned to create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for CSS clients. Increased activity in breakfast and lunch programs prompted the need for expanded facilities. The areas were reimagined to provide more efficient and accommodating spaces for those in need.
A new multipurpose room was added, offering a flexible space for various community activities, workshops, and events. A community garden and greenhouse are included on the property, both to provide fresh produce, and opportunities for clients to learn gardening skills.
The on-site chapel was redesigned, to welcome all visitors and offer a peaceful space for reflection and prayer. Glass doors replace the previous wooden door, so the chapel can be seen and serve as an invitation to visit the Lord.
A major addition is the new child care center, allowing parents at CSS to know their children are always close and available to check in on.
“Knowing the kids can visit the chapel that’s maybe just 20 feet away from where their classrooms are going to be,” Patrick added.
“As Catholics we are very pro-life, pro-family, and now it’s going to be very visible within CSS,” she said.
Patrick said the expansion of CSS is more than bricks and mortar; it represents a community’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. It’s a sign of hope, not just for the clients CSS serves, but for the entire community that comes together to support the mission.
Father Justin Fulton served as executive director at CSS from 2019-2021 — and as assistant executive director a year before. He was involved in the early planning of the expansion during that time. He shared another dimension to CSS’s mission Oct. 14.
“Always remember Jesus himself was poor,” he said. “CSS reaches out with Catholic gospel, virtue and service to Jesus and His poor. The joy that we receive from that is unparalleled.”
Bishop James Conley blessed the building that afternoon.
“This is the fruit of a lot of prayer and work, and it is finally coming to fruition,” the bishop said.
“It’s been a lot of work, and a labor of love by so many people and so many benefactors who have supported CSS over the years. It’s just a wonderful day to celebrate.”
After the bishop’s blessing, CSS staff members offered tours and celebrated the opening with a mobile coffee truck, ice cream, and refreshments.
In addition to the renovation of the original building, CSS expanded an additional 3,500 square feet to the south. This space includes conference rooms, desking for the operations team and the marketing and development team, as well as an employee break room and courtyard.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska offers services across the 24,000 square miles of the Diocese of Lincoln, with additional facilities in Auburn, Hastings and Imperial.
