Almost 50 years ago, Elsie O'Connell had a vision. Today, that vision thrives at O'Connell Children's Shelter (OCS), where we continue to provide essential services to children, youth, and families. Join us in expanding this legacy by helping us reach even more families in need.
A welcoming place for families in crisis, offering emergency youth beds, job-readiness programs, and educational resources.
Upgrade the five homes that shelter up to 40 foster youth daily, ensuring they live in safe, supportive environments.
By investing in early intervention and mental health services, we help build a healthier future for children and families in Douglas County.
OCS offers vital care and support to children and families facing tough times. From crisis intervention and safe housing to life skills training and mental health services, our programs address immediate needs while fostering long-term stability and growth. We work to keep families together and help children thrive.
OCS operates five residential homes that provide a safe, supportive environment for children in foster care. Each home is designed to meet the emotional, educational, and physical needs of youth, ensuring they have a stable place to live while preparing them for life beyond care.
The new Family Service Center will feature crisis rooms for youth in emergency situations, offering immediate support and stabilization. These specialized beds are designed to give children a secure, temporary home while longer-term solutions are found.
Through prevention services, OCS works with families to avoid separation and keep children out of the foster care system. Services include case management, counseling, and functional family therapy, providing parents and children with the tools they need to stay together safely.
OCS helps families and youth build essential life skills through job-readiness training and educational resources. Our programs ensure that both parents and children can develop the skills needed for independence and long-term success.
OCS provides, together with community partners, comprehensive mental health services, including therapy and counseling, to help children and families address trauma, behavioral issues, and emotional challenges. These services play a crucial role in promoting healing and stability.
Families in our community face challenges like poverty, limited mental health care, and an overburdened foster system. O'Connell Children's Shelter is committed to keeping families together through early intervention and support. Our new Family Service Center will provide essential resources like crisis care and life skills training to help families in need, creating a brighter future for our youth and strengthening our community.
By contributing to the Hope Grows Here campaign, you're helping us expand our services and improve the lives of children, youth, and families in need. Every donation makes a lasting difference, ensuring OCS can continue to offer critical support and opportunities for generations to come.
O’Connell Generations builds
family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the adults in their lives together. See Programs and Services for more information.
