Family Resource Center under new leadership

McCOOK Neb. - The Southwest Nebraska Family Resource Center has welcomed a new director, Kaye T Bieck, who brings a wealth of experience and a passion for serving the community. Bieck introduced Georgia Baughman, the center's sole other employee, praising her dedication to organizing the well-stocked shopping area. "She and her daughter did an amazing job with this," Bieck said, acknowledging the hard work of volunteers like Georgia's daughter Brea Sweeley and Connie Jo Discoe, who have been instrumental in sorting and organizing donations.

While appreciating the strong foundation of the center, Bieck is eager to adapt to the evolving needs of the community. "We have to move with the times," she stated, highlighting the changes brought about by the pandemic. "The needs of the children have changed, and we just have to keep flowing with it."

The center will continue its vital programs, including the Christmas Tree program, although Bieck plans to reassess its structure later in the year. A significant focus in April will be on Child Abuse Awareness Month, featuring a donation drive for local schools. "We're going to hold a donation drive for the schools that will create a friendly competition between the elementary schools," Bieck explained. Participants can earn points through item donations, which they can then donate to the schools to help them purchase necessary supplies. The center is collaborating with Debbie Arp to compile a list of essential items, such as underwear, socks, and hygiene products, to support both teachers and students.

Bieck is particularly passionate about supporting foster children, drawing from her own experience in foster care. "I know that those resources are needed for foster parents who receive calls in the middle of the night," she said. She also advocates for parenting programs like Love and Logic. The center is working with Mariah Pearson from Rise Therapy to enhance resources for parents with assistive devices.

To further assist community members, Bieck hopes to introduce a computer at the center for accessing online support and applying for services, and have staff trained in assisting for applications for Social Security, Unemployment and DHHS assistance. "If you're at the library, you can't be on the phone with someone asking questions," she noted.

The shopping area at the center has been reorganized to improve accessibility, now featuring a new play area for children. "We currently have a lot of breast pumps available. Everything in the lobby is point-free," Bieck said. The center operates on a point system, allowing individuals to earn points through item donations and then use those points to "purchase" needed items.

The center will no longer hold gift basket fundraisers, with the board taking the lead on fundraising efforts, including an upcoming disc golf tournament and charity bingo event. The center is currently in need of items such as pull-ups, wipes, and hygiene products. "One of the most requested items is laundry detergent and toilet paper," Bieck shared, adding that she is working to acquire a washer and dryer for the center.

"One of the aspects I love about this program is that it doesn’t feel like a charity," Bieck emphasized. "The point system allows each person to earn the items they take, giving them a sense of dignity."

With a background in law enforcement, foster care, and social programs, Bieck feels well-equipped to serve the community. "I've worked extensively with the impoverished and needy," she said.

The center is actively seeking volunteers. "We couldn't have accomplished this without Brea and Connie Jo," Bieck stated, also expressing gratitude for the supportive board. "They've truly been wonderful."