Lydia Turner

Professional Experience

Education, prevention, family advocacy, and nonprofit leadership in Nebraska.

August 2023–present

Next Chapter Educator

University of Nebraska at Lincoln

Omaha Benson & Bryan + Grand Island

Empowering students to turn possibilities into purposeful plans through career exploration, goal setting, and life-readiness education. Facilitating engaging learning experiences for approximately 1,000 students each month, helping young adults explore post-graduation pathways, develop essential life skills, and confidently prepare for their next chapter. Develop innovative student programming, including peer-to-peer mentoring initiatives, and building partnerships with nonprofits, educational organizations, and community partners to expand opportunities for students. Provide financial literacy education through collaborations with financial institutions, support college access through UNL campus experiences, and offer individualized coaching to students seeking guidance with employment, education, and professional development goals.

August 2019–July 2023

Community Navigation Coordinator

GOALS Center / Greater Omaha Attendance and Learning Services

Omaha, Nebraska

Led community-based prevention efforts focused on improving student attendance, strengthening family support systems, and reducing barriers that impact educational success. Collaborated with students, families, schools, and community partners to provide coordinated resources, case management, and advocacy services. Supported program development, grant writing, staff training, and community partnerships to expand services and create sustainable solutions for youth and families. Facilitated the School Based Attendance Coalition, bringing together school professionals, therapists, county representatives, and youth-serving organizations to address barriers to attendance and improve outcomes for students. Served as a standing member of MDT teams (Multidisciplinary Teams) focused on Student Attendance and Missing & Runaway Youth while supporting prevention services across all 11 Omaha-area school districts.

November 2012–April 2016

Family Permanency Specialist

Nebraska Families Collaborative

Omaha Metropolitan Area

Provided trauma-informed case management and family advocacy services to support children and families navigating complex challenges within the child welfare system. Worked with non-court involved and court involved families to assess safety, strengthen family stability, address barriers, and develop individualized plans that supported children remaining safely in their homes whenever possible. Coordinated services with families, schools, community partners, and multidisciplinary partners; facilitated Family Team Meetings and participated in MDT meetings; advocated for family needs; and connected caregivers to resources that promoted long-term stability. Co-chaired the faith-based community initiative focused on strengthening partnerships between families and faith-based organizations to expand access to supportive resources.

August 2006–April 2018

Administrative Assistant

D.R.E.A.M.

Omaha Metropolitan Area

Supported the growth and delivery of youth mentoring in after-school programming serving elementary and middle school students. Developed, implemented, and facilitated curriculum-based programs focused on academic support, personal growth, and mentorship. Provided nonprofit operational support through volunteer coordination, event planning, donor and sponsor communication, fundraising efforts, grant writing, and program administration. Built relationships with community partners and stakeholders to strengthen programming, expand resources, and support positive outcomes for youth and families.