Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin’-By-World
If you’ve spent time just trying to get by, the idea of getting ahead can feel out of reach. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World is a 13-week workshop where participants—called Investigators—take a deeper look at their lives, their community and the changes that can lead to greater stability. Together, we explore what’s been in the way and what’s possible moving forward.
Each week, we:
- Talk about the realities of life in our community and how they affect us
- Learn the “hidden rules” for getting ahead
- Build skills, confidence and connection
Workshops include a meal and meaningful conversation. Investigators can earn up to $350 for completing the experience and sharing their insights ($250 at graduation + $100 for the 6-month follow-up).
Multiple workshops launch in January and July each year.
Participate in Getting Ahead
How to Get Started
Thanks for your interest in learning more! To get started:
- Sign up for Getting Ahead orientation here > Orientation Sign Up Form
- Attend orientation to learn more about Getting Ahead and register for an upcoming workshop.
Orientation sign-up for our summer 2026 workshops is open May 11-June 12.
Upcoming Workshops
Tuesdays 7/7/26 – 9/29/26 – CEDARS Northbridge, 1533 N 27th Street, Noon – 3 p.m.
Saturdays 7/11/26 – 10/3/26 – Sheridan Lutheran Church Education Center, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mondays 7/13/26 – 10/12/26 – Air Park Community Center, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Thursdays 7/16/26 – 10/8/26– Zoom, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (for those who have medical or transportation challenges)
Are there any requirements for Investigators? What is expected of me?
We ask that Investigators:
Attend a Getting Ahead Orientation to learn more and register for a workshop.
Commit to attend all classes.
Actively participate in discussions.
Complete the lessons in the workbook (workbook provided at no charge).
Engage in some discovery work that may occur outside of class.
Be open to new ideas.
Investigators have the opportunity to receive up to $350 by completing class and a 6-month assessment ($250 for the workshop and $100 for the 6-month assessment). We appreciate the opportunity to learn from you!
What do I do if a workshop is full?
Orientation sign-up is typically offered twice each year: November–December and May–June.
If registration is currently closed, complete our Orientation Interest Form to join the notification list. We’ll send you an email when Orientation sign-up opens again so you don’t miss your opportunity to register.
My organization would like to be a host site for Getting Ahead Workshops. Who do I contact?
For host inquiries, please contact:
Georgann Roth
Community Resource Manager
(402) 819.6481
I would like to facilitate Getting Ahead workshops. What are the steps?
Fill out the Facilitator Interest Form and we’ll reach out to you!
For more information, contact Georgann Roth at groth@lincolnfoodbank.org.
I have more questions. Who should I contact?
We look forward to answering your questions! Please contact:
Georgann Roth
Community Resource Manager
(402) 819.6481
Benefits of Getting Ahead
Identify your strengths and build a personal future story in a safe and encouraging environment.
Receive long-term support from people and resources to help you achieve your future plans.
Work to build financial resources for you and your family.
We asked current Investigators…
“What’s going well in your workshop so far?”
“Learning about money management and bonding with like-minded women. I’m a firm believer at this point to work hard and save to not struggle. Especially building a foundation for my future family.”
“My favorite part of class is dialoguing with everyone and listening to everyone’s experiences.”
“I feel like we are making progress through the book and even if my problems aren’t solved, which I didn’t expect, I have a better understanding of the financial situation I am in. I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to overcome with time and focus.”
“We have an amazing group with budding friendships. We have great conversations and learn from each others situation. It’s an amazing class.”
Graduate Testimonials
Elizabeth (left) and Jax (right) share their Getting Ahead experiences.
Getting Ahead Graduates
"I took the time to step outside of me and look from another perspective. I looked at my life as a whole instead of looking at it in pieces. I have learned a lot from taking this class, learning to have a better understanding of what, who, when, and where I as a person, or even a community, stand."
- CMW
"They did such amazing things with my family, such as encouraging, supporting and being there for me when I needed someone—someone to talk to, someone to support me, and, most of all, someone to help me change into the person I am today."
