Inclusive Communities is an Omaha nonprofit organization dedicated to confronting prejudice, bigotry and discrimination through education, advocacy and community engagement. This year they are thrilled to invite Eagles to its IncluCity Youth Development Camp 2026, a program designed to empower young leaders. All 14–19-year-olds are welcome to apply.
The camp aims to bring together a diverse group of 75 high school students from Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa over a four-day camp to develop students to create inclusive and just communities. Throughout the weekend, students take part in dialogue and activities around issues of race, class, faith, ability, gender, sexual orientation, age and appearance to make important steps in confronting bigotry, prejudice and discrimination.
The application window is open until March 20, 2026. Transportation to and from camp is ensured by IncluCity and meals and lodging during camp. The camp is scheduled to take place Friday, April 10 to Monday, April 13, 2026.
IncluCity is completely free to attend, removing financial barriers and ensuring accessibility for all interested students. This camp is made possible through the support of sponsors, including The Sherwood Foundation, OCF Equality Fund, Gilbert E. Swanson Foundation and Milton & Corinne Livingston Endowment.
Emily Schultz, one of the geometry and pre-algebra teachers at Central, is involved with IncluCity and shared her understanding of the program.
“Students work together to have deep discussions, share their experiences, attend workshops, and develop skits that help them gain skills to bring back to their schools and communities,” Schultz said.
Maurice Sherrod, a senior at Central, attended the camp in his sophomore year.
“The staff members that were there and a lot of the other students who made it were really inviting and accepting everyone. They were really inclusive, you could say,” Sherrod said.
To express your interest and learn more about this program, Central students can submit an interest form, which can be accessed via QR codes located throughout the school building. Alternatively, for more information students can reach out directly to Cammy Watkins at [email protected].
Shultz described other ways schools can get involved with Inclusive Communities.
“In schools, clubs can attend Inclusive Communities events or have a staff member as a contact person between the school and the nonprofit,” Schultz said.
“It was definitely uncomfortable for other students including myself in some parts, but it was that uncomfortability that made the experience so strong and so enriching,” Sherrod said.
