CEDARS Expands CLC Program to Roper Elementary

CEDARS is excited to expand our before-and-after school Community Learning Center (CLC) program to Roper Elementary! Starting this fall, students enrolled at Roper Elementary will now have the opportunity to participate in CEDARS enriching CLC program, which offers a safe, welcoming space for kids before and after school. In addition to academic support, students engage in hands-on, creative activities like sewing and archery, and take part in clubs designed to foster curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning. 

The expansion to Roper Elementary is especially significant to our organization as the school is named after Hulda Roper, the first female officer of the Lincoln Police Department and a pivotal figure in the founding of CEDARS. Through her work, she met many kids who needed a home to live in and a family to care for them. At the time, there was no facility capable of providing temporary care for kids in crisis—so Hulda began searching for a solution. 

She connected with Marie Becker, who had been helping the Danner family care for kids in their home. They were quickly outgrowing the house and needed to find a new place to stay. Hulda found a property on the outskirts of Lincoln, and, with the help of the Beckers and the Sertoma Club, the property was purchased and repaired. The Danners and the kids in their care moved in shortly after, officially becoming what we know today as CEDARS. 

Having the opportunity to serve students at a school named after Hulda is a powerful way to honor her impact and continue the mission she helped begin. We look forward to supporting students at Roper Elementary and continuing to keep kids safe—always.