OUR HISTORY

Born in 2020 from the heartbeat of purpose and the hands of visionaries, The Bloc Inc. was never simply founded—it was breathed into being. The Bloc was imagined as more than just an organization; it was—and remains—a call to action, a declaration of love for community, and a beacon for those ready to rise. From the very beginning, The Bloc existed not to hand out lifelines, but to teach the sacred art of swimming through life’s vast and unpredictable currents. At its core lies a beautifully radical truth: when people discover how—how to lead, how to build, how to rise—they don’t just transform themselves, they transform the world around them.

Firmly rooted in the heart of Omaha, Nebraska, The Bloc has spent years nurturing the soil of community—planting seeds of knowledge, compassion, and belonging. What began as a spark of impact grew into a blazing mission, and that mission evolved into a movement. By 2021, the vision became crystal clear: to enhance the lives of both youth and seniors in Omaha and Lincoln. And today, that vision still burns bright—empowering these two vibrant generations through thoughtful resources, intentional programming, and deeply rooted partnerships across Nebraska. ( I think we diverted back to the old mission). 

In a year marked by global uncertainty, The Bloc became a lighthouse in the storm. Amid the chaos of 2020, and with the help of an ARPA grant, The Bloc responded with extraordinary heart: 15,000 nourishing meals delivered to seniors, 10,000 life-saving masks shared with the vulnerable, and 1,500 hours of mental health support offered to those struggling to stay afloat. That same year, The Bloc hosted its first professional headshot event in the serene surroundings of Elmwood Park—not just capturing images, but reflecting back dignity, confidence, and self-worth to every participant.

As the organization grew, so did its vision of honoring the past while uplifting the present. In 2021, The Bloc launched the inaugural 50 Over 50 NE Awards—a stirring tribute to Nebraskans aged 50 and above who continue to shape our state with wisdom, grace, and power. In partnership with AARP Nebraska, these awards celebrated excellence across five dynamic categories: Business, Community, Healthcare, Nonprofit, and Innovation. Too often, age is quietly overlooked—but at The Bloc, we believe it deserves to be celebrated, cherished, and honored. The 50 Over 50 NE Awards are more than just a recognition—they are a heartfelt tribute to longevity, legacy, and the enduring brilliance that only deep experience can bring. These awards are a standing ovation for lives well-lived, for wisdom that continues to guide, and for the powerful reminder that impact only grows stronger with time.

Then came a new spark—In 2023, The Bloc unveiled the 20 Under 20 NE Awards, spotlighting the rising stars of Nebraska’s youth. These exceptional individuals under the age of 20 are already shaping tomorrow through their brilliance in Leadership, Arts & Entrepreneurship, Academics, Community Involvement, and Athletics. They are not waiting for permission to lead—they are leading now, with courage, innovation, and a fierce belief in their own power. This celebration brings together bright young minds and seasoned changemakers, building bridges that span generations.

And to unite these luminous ends of the human journey, The Bloc introduced its most soulful initiative yet: the Personal Board of Directors. This isn't just mentorship—it's a sacred exchange. In this space, elders and youth meet as equals, trading stories, dreams, and truths. It’s not a hierarchy—it’s a harmony. A living testament to the idea that wisdom flows both ways, and that growth knows no age.

With every shared meal, every honored story, and every heartfelt connection, The Bloc is stitching together a rich, colorful tapestry of community—a place where every generation is seen, every voice is heard, and every soul has a seat at the table.

Because The Bloc doesn’t just serve the community.

The Bloc is the community.