Lincoln Littles is often recognized for tuition assistance, and this support truly changes lives for families.
But from the very beginning, the vision has been bigger than any single program.
Lincoln Littles exists to strengthen the entire early childhood system in Lincoln. Tuition assistance, provider support and employer partnerships are all part of that larger strategy.
Now, with the addition of Emily Kluver as Strategic Initiatives Director, the organization has dedicated leadership focused every day on advancing that long-term systems work.
Her focus is clear: building a stronger early childhood system so childcare in Lincoln is affordable, accessible and high quality for years to come.
A Lincoln Kid Who Came Home
Born and raised in Lincoln, Emily attended the University of Nebraska before earning her master’s degree in public administration and policy at NYU. She worked in the New York City Mayor’s Office supporting health and human services data initiatives.
In 2013, she returned to Lincoln to be closer to family. She spent nearly a decade at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services overseeing grants and programs focused on preventing child abuse and neglect. Most recently, she worked at Community Health Endowment, partnering with nonprofits and managing grant investments that support children and families across the city.
Together, those experiences shaped her understanding of both public systems and local partnerships.
Focused on What’s Next
Lincoln Littles already provides tuition assistance, supports childcare providers and works with employers to address workforce challenges. This work remains essential.
At the same time, the organization has always recognized that sustainable change requires coordinated public funding, smart policy alignment and long-term investment.
Emily’s role strengthens that commitment.
She is reviewing data, analyzing past investments and, most importantly, listening. She’s meeting with parents, providers, business leaders and partners to better understand where gaps remain and how existing efforts can be connected and amplified.
“This work can’t be done from behind a desk,” she says. “You have to understand what’s happening day to day.”
This role strengthens existing efforts, adding dedicated capacity to the long-term systems work Lincoln Littles has championed from the start.
What This Means for Families and Businesses
Emily is also the parent of an 11-year-old daughter. She knows how essential reliable, high-quality childcare is for families who want to fully participate in the workforce.
“I’m 100% certain I wouldn’t have been able to be in the workforce without that support,” she says.
When childcare works, children build strong foundations for learning. Parents can pursue careers. Businesses retain employees. The entire community benefits.
Lincoln already has strong public-private partnerships and real momentum around early childhood. With dedicated leadership focused on long-term strategy, Lincoln Littles is positioned to grow that momentum and continue strengthening the system that families and providers rely on every day.
Support this important work to lift up our community’s little ones – give a gift today.