Welcome to the latest PLCS Foundation newsletter! 

In this edition, you'll hear from Executive Director Lee Denker, meet one of our dedicated donors, welcome new team members, be introduced to the 2026 Hall of Fame honorees, and see what's ahead this summer. Thank you for being part of the PLCS Foundation community.

Donor Spotlight
Nickie and Nick Konen

For Nickie and Nick Konen, supporting the PLCS Community Engagement Center is personal.

As working parents, the Konens rely on Kids Club to provide a safe, engaging place for their children before and after school and during the summer. While Kids Club operates in PLCS schools, its central administration will soon have a permanent home in the Community Engagement Center.

"We honestly don't know how we could manage without Kids Club," Nickie shared. "Supporting the Community Engagement Center is a meaningful way for us to support a program that is crucial to our family."

While Kids Club inspired their family's connection to the project, the Konens also recognize the Community Engagement Center's broader impact. They believe it will strengthen programs that remove barriers to learning and ensure students and families have access to the support they need.

"We want every student to come to school ready to learn, which starts by meeting their basic needs: clothes for their size and season, essential hygiene items, reliable access to food, and other basics," Nickie said. "When those needs are met, students can focus and engage in the classroom."

The Konens are especially encouraged by the Community Engagement Center's ability to expand programs like the PLCS Community Closet, making it easier to connect students and families with critical resources while bringing Foundation programs together under one roof.

They are also excited about the way the Community Engagement Center will bring people together. The Center will create a welcoming place where students and families can access support, teachers and staff can participate in training, and alumni and community members can reconnect and stay involved. As Papillion residents, they also look forward to the energy and activity the project will bring to downtown.

For those considering supporting the campaign, the Konens hope others will see the Community Engagement Center as an investment in the future of PLCS.

"PLCS schools are an incredible source of pride for our community," Nickie said. "A gift to the Community Engagement Center is an investment in our students, families, teachers, and staff. Every contribution helps create a place where students and families can access the resources they need, educators receive support for their work, and our community grows stronger together. Let's make sure PLCS schools continue to thrive for generations to come!"

Welcoming New Team Members

Swing for Kids Celebrates 40 Years
with a Record-Breaking Tournament

The 40th Annual Swing for Kids Golf Fundraiser reached a new milestone this year, raising a record $75,500 in support of the PLCS Community Engagement Center.

More than 200 golfers gathered at Tiburon Golf Club on June 9 to celebrate four decades of investing in PLCS students while enjoying a day of friendly competition, connection, and philanthropy.

A special highlight of the day was recognizing Judy Abels and her son, Bret Abels, as honorary starters. Their family's four-generation legacy of supporting Papillion La Vista Community Schools and the Papillion community reflects the spirit of generosity that has fueled Swing for Kids for 40 years.

Events like Swing for Kids are only possible because of an incredible community of supporters. Thank you to presenting sponsor Boyd Jones, our sponsors, volunteers and everyone who helped make this milestone tournament a record-breaking success.

To everyone who sponsored, golfed, volunteered or gave, thank you. Your support is creating new opportunities for students and families today while helping build a stronger future for generations to come.

Introducing the 2026 PLCS Hall of Fame Honorees

Congratulations to the 2026 PLCS Hall of Fame honorees! Each year, the PLCS Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, service and achievements inspire others. Join us in celebrating this year's honorees at the 17th Annual Back to School Soiree on Saturday, August 15. 

Upcoming Events

PLCS Foundation news is sent electronically to donors each quarter. If you would like to discuss a future donation or any items included in this e-newsletter, click here to send a note.
We'd love to hear from you!

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