What's Going On
Festival of Trees 2026: Nov 27 - Dec 6
The annual Lawrence Festival of Trees is the primary fundraising event for O'Connell. This year, we celebrate 40 years of Festival of Trees! Businesses, clubs, children's groups, families, and organizations donate Christmas trees and wreaths to be displayed for the entire Lawrence community to enjoy at Maceli's in Downtown Lawrence. Festival Week includes many long-time beloved events and some new surprises this year. Tickets to the Auction Party on Dec. 5th are on sale now. Buy your tickets here today!
Celebrating 50 Years of Impact
O’Connell celebrated the opening of Elsie’s Place on Tuesday,
July 28th. Watch this video to learn about the tremendous impact one individual can have on an entire community, as well as the exciting developments in the crisis continuum offered by our new Juvenile Stabilization Center.
Being Present Matters
Real Lives, Real Impact
Since 1976, O'Connell Children's Shelter has stood alongside youth and families during their hardest times. Through a variety of residential, prevention and other programs, we help children build stability and families grow stronger.
Our Work in Action
Our Work in Action
In our 50 year history, O’Connell Children’s Shelter has continually served youth and families during their hardest times. Over 15,000 youth and countless families have been positively impacted.
Residential Homes
Safe, structured living environments for youth in need.
Prevention & Crisis Response
Helping families navigate challenges before they escalate.
Life Skills & Family Support
Teaching skills and offering resources for long-term success.
In our 50 year history, O’Connell Children’s Shelter has continually served youth and families during their hardest times. Over 15,000 youth and countless families have been positively impacted.
• Residential Homes – Safe, structured living environments for youth in need.
• Prevention & Crisis Response – Helping families navigate challenges before they escalate.
• Life Skills & Family Support – Teaching skills and offering resources for long-term success.
Our Impact by the Numbers
*2024 results
Our Impact by the Numbers
*2024 results
Your Support
Makes This Possible
Every gift—time, money, or resources—directly changes lives. When you support OCS, you ensure area children and families have what they need to feel safe, supported, and empowered.
Monetary Gifts
Support our agency in our effort to provide stable and life-changing care for children and families.
Item Donation
From clothing to household items, your donated goods directly benefit youth in our group homes.
Volunteer
Teach a class, share a hobby, or mentor. Your time and talents can open doors for children’s futures.
Our Programs & Services
Early intervention services that strengthen families, reduce risk, and address challenges before they become crises, helping youth stay safely at home and connected to their communities.
Short-term, structured care for youth who cannot remain safely at home. Our residential programs focus on healing, stability, and preparing youth for reunification, permanency, or independence.
Supportive, family-based placements for children who need temporary or long-term care, paired with ongoing guidance and resources for foster families.
Support Our Capital Campaign
Hope Grows Here is OCS’s special campaign to strengthen programs, expand services, and invest in the future of children and families in Douglas County. With community support, we’re building more than safe homes—we’re building opportunities for long-term stability and brighter futures.
