About Us
Mission Statement
The Karen Society of Nebraska's mission is to help refugees and immigrants from Burma build and sustain a high quality of life and achieve self-sufficiency in the state of Nebraska.
Objectives
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Facilitate the Integration of Refugees and Immigrants
Promote active participation and contributions of refugees and immigrants in Nebraskan society, fostering their roles as valued community members through integration support and community engagement. -
Support the Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Enrich both refugee communities and the broader society by celebrating diversity, fostering mutual understanding, and preserving and sharing cultural heritage. -
Promote Physical and Mental Health
Enhance the well-being of refugee and immigrant families through targeted education, culturally relevant resources, and supportive programs that empower individuals and families to make informed health choices.
About KSN
The Karen families relocated to Omaha in 2005. In 2006, the Karen Society of Nebraska (KSN) was established to assist refugees and immigrants from Burma in achieving self-sufficiency within the state. Our mission is to facilitate a smoother transition for our community as they integrate into American society. By working together as a family, we guide our community toward self-sufficiency.
In 2010, KSN was officially registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized by the state of Nebraska. Currently, KSN operates three offices that serve the communities of Lincoln, Omaha, and Madison. We collaborate with local employers, organizations, and churches to ensure that our community maximizes its available resources. Our efforts are supported by local community members, organizations, churches, and individuals.
KSN's First Year in Omaha, Nebraska: 2006 Highlights
In 2006, the Karen Society of Nebraska (KSN) played a crucial role in assisting Karen families as they transitioned to life in Nebraska. KSN fostered cultural connections and raised awareness through community events, including the Karen New Year Celebration in January and Karen National Martyrs' Day in August. The organization also established information tables to support newly arrived families and connect them with local agencies. KSN aims to help families achieve self-sufficiency by providing resources and guidance to facilitate their successful integration into the community. As seen in the picture, Rev. Dr. Saw Khu is one of the key leaders driving the Karen Society of Nebraska forward.
KSN Booth tables in September 2006
Karen New Year Event in January 2006
Karen National Martyrs Day in August 2006
KSN Omaha Office
In 2005, as the Karen population in Omaha grew, so did the community's needs. People supported each other through home visits, church gatherings, and by seeking assistance at K'yaw Poe Asia Market. In 2006, The Karen Society of Nebraska (KSN) played a crucial role in helping Karen families transition to life in Omaha. From 2009 to 2010, the Karen Christian Revival Church donated space at 5308 Hartman Ave, Omaha, NE 68104, to support families in need. From 2011 to 2023, Landmark provided an apartment at 816 N 44th St, #3, Omaha, NE 68131, for community use. In 2023, the community acquired a permanent office at 3316 N 80th St, Omaha, NE 68134, with local supporters contributing to office supplies, utilities, and funding for one staff member.
Rosanna Roland serving clients at the Omaha Office,
816 N 44th St, #3, Omaha, NE, 68131
KSN Lincoln Office
Starting in 2006, and over the following years, many families relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska, prompting The Karen Society of Nebraska (KSN) to expand its services to the area in 2007. Among the well-known pioneer families were Po Htoo, Starry Htoo, and Pa Saw. Key volunteers, including Lorn Sorenson, Cheryl Brazee, Pa Naw Dee, HehWah Luthersanba, Wah Wah Moo, and Sar Law Eh, played essential roles in supporting this growing community. In March 2009, KSN established its first Lincoln office in the Community Number complex, with Martha Sorenson joining as a dedicated volunteer, along with Pae Pae, Mu Hser, Lar Lah, Wasana, Eh Say, and many others. In 2013, the office moved to 1527 S 20th St, Lincoln, NE 68502. From 2013 to 2019, local support grew as landlord Jon Carlson generously donated office space, while the Center for People provided utilities and office supplies. In 2021, KSN relocated to 1021 D Street, Lincoln, NE 68502, with the landlord donating the space while KSN managed utility costs. A year later, the landlord transferred ownership of the property to KSN. An open house celebration on August 27, 2022, marked a new chapter in KSN’s commitment to serving the Lincoln community.
Martha Sorenson, Eh Say and Lar Lah are serving clients at the Lincoln Office, 1527 S 20th St, Lincoln, NE
KSN Madison Office
For employment opportunities from Tyson, the Karen family move to Norfolk and Madison. In June 2017, DHHS conducted a BRFSS survey across Nebraska and KSN has a chance to be a part of this survey process and outreach community access Nebraska. The KSN found out that the community has the same issue as Lincoln and Omaha. March 2018, KSN begin to start the Madison office at 210 W 3rd St, Madison, NE. Madison cities council donates office space, and Tyson donates transportation car, utility, and office supply.
Before the official opening, the KSN leadership visited the office location.
210 W 3rd St, Madison, NE
A group photo taken after the opening ceremony.
210 W 3rd St, Madison, NE
Karen People in Nebraska
The Karen (pronounced Ka-REN) are an ethnic group from the mountainous border regions of Burma and Thailand, where they are the second largest ethnic group in each country. They have faced persecution and ethnic cleansing by the Burmese government, leading many to live in refugee camps in Thailand before being resettled in Nebraska. There are approximately 11,000 Karen living in Nebraska, along with 1000 additional refugees from other ethnic groups in Burma. Due to employment opportunities and family reunions, Omaha has become home to the largest and fastest-growing Karen population in the U.S. Other Nebraska communities with large Karen populations include Lincoln, Crete, Nebraska City, Grand Island, Norfolk, and Dakota City.
Peoples of Burma (Myanmar)
Burma (Myanmar) is a country with great ethnic diversity. Its estimated population of 48-50 million is divided between at least eight major ethnic groups: Kachin, Karenni, Karen, Zomi, Arakanese, Mon, Burmese, and Shan. Each ethnic group has its own languages and customs, contributing to the unique cultural diversity of the country. This diversity is reflected in the beauty of the national culture, colorful traditional dress, and varied customs, making Burma a country rich in heritage.
Kachin People
Karenni People
Karen People
Zomi People
Arakanese People
Mon People
Burmese People
Shan People