Hope for the Future

Multiple people reaching their hands into the center in a group gesture. The hands are of various skin tones, with some wearing rings and painted nails.

Rooted in Community, Growing in Hope

Hope for the Future is a Fairbury-based nonprofit established in March 2025 with a mission to strengthen and uplift the community emotionally, mentally, and spiritually (non-denominational). Founded by local leaders who share a passion for creating spaces of encouragement and belonging, the organization is dedicated to providing positive opportunities for individuals and families of all ages. Its first major project is A Sip of Eden, a gaming coffeehouse designed to become both a community gathering place and a sustainable funding source for the nonprofit’s ongoing work. Through this initiative and future programs, Hope for the Future aims to inspire connection, support well-being, and build a foundation of hope that lasts for generations.

Our flagship initiative is the creation of A Sip of Eden, a playhouse cafe that will serve as both a gathering place and a sustainable funding source for our nonprofit. While the building has been secured, we are currently raising the funds necessary to renovate and prepare the space for the community. Every donation brings us closer to opening the doors and launching a meaningful resource for Fairbury.

Green hands holding a sun with rays, above the text "HOPE FOR THE FUTURE" in green capital letters.
Group of six adults standing together in a living room in front of a fireplace and a large flat-screen TV.

Guided by Dedicated Leadership

Hope for the Future is led by a committed board of local leaders who share a passion for service and community growth:

  • Sharlyn Kroeker – President
    Sharlyn Kroeker has been owner/manager of Fairbury 4th St Greenhouse for 22 years with her husband, Al.  She has enjoyed raising 9 children (just 3 are in the home now) and has 5 grandchildren.

  • Christina Jurgena – Treasurer
    Christina Jurgena has worked 17 years for Blue Valley Community Action as well as almost 3 years with H&R Block. She is on the Fairbury Wavebreakers swim team board and volunteers for many of her children's activities. She has been married for 22 years with Tyrone Jr. and  has 2 children.

  • Jennifer Galbraith – Secretary
    Jennifer Galbraith moved to Fairbury August 27, 2024.  She is the Deputy Clerk at the Jefferson County District Court.  She moved to Fairbury because her husband, Gregg, is the Superintendent of Rock Creek Station.  They’ve been married for 27 years and have two grown children and two dogs, Pepper and Scout.

  • Keith Feisel
    Pastor Keith Feisel moved to Nebraska five years ago to pastor the Zion Countryside Church in Gladstone.  He has been involved in ministry and volunteer work since 1979.  He and Nancy have three daughters and two grandchildren.  He enjoys reading, writing (not arithmetic!), drawing, and the outdoors. 

  • Karen Dux
    Karen Dux has been a teacher in the Fairbury school system for over 40 years.  She has also been a part of Five Star Bible Camp since its opening almost 30 years ago.  Karen has been married to Stephen for 43 years, and they have two sons and five grandchildren in the Fairbury area.

  • Bob Bartels

    Robert Bartels spent the majority of his working years at Store Kraft Manufacturing in Beatrice (39 yrs).  After its closure, he worked for a couple businesses in Fairbury before retiring in 2021.  Since then, he has been involved in various helps ministries.  Bob has been married to Wilma Bartels for 38 years.

Why Your Support Matters

Your generosity helps build a place where hope, connection, and community can flourish. By partnering with us, you are helping create long-lasting impact and a brighter future for Fairbury.

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