Filament Celebrates the 2026 “Excellence in Nonprofit” Nominees

The Inspire Awards celebrate women whose leadership, courage and commitment make Lincoln a stronger community. Filament Essential Services is honored to sponsor the 2026 “Excellence in Nonprofit” category and recognize five women who bring heart, determination and purpose to their work.

This award honors a Lincoln-area woman who goes above and beyond her role at a nonprofit, empowers her colleagues and collaborates with others for the greater good. This year’s nominees embody that spirit through their work in behavioral health, education, youth development, leadership and community connection.

Amber Dirks

As Vice President of Community Response at CenterPointe, Amber Dirks helps connect people experiencing behavioral health crises with compassionate, community-based support. Her work includes advancing Lincoln’s co-responder program, which brings law enforcement and behavioral health professionals together to better serve people in crisis.

Emily Koopmann

Emily Koopmann serves as Executive Director of the Belmont Community Center, where she helps provide educational, recreational and community-building programs for children and families. Her leadership supports a welcoming neighborhood resource where people can learn, connect and thrive.

Latasha Varnadoe-Iloabuchi

Latasha Varnadoe-Iloabuchi is a co-founder and treasurer of The 1895 Project, a nonprofit that helps BIPOC youth develop career, life and social skills. She has also helped expand access to information about Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including bringing an HBCU college fair to Lincoln.

Marthaellen Florence

Marthaellen Florence serves as Director of Programs and Leadership Development for Leadership Lincoln. Her career has included decades of work in public media, community engagement and leadership development. She continues to create opportunities for people to connect, grow and become more engaged in the community.

Thuy Ngoc Ho

Through her work with the Asian Community and Cultural Center, Thuy Ngoc Ho creates meaningful connections for immigrants, refugees, women and older adults. She organizes support groups, cultural activities and community celebrations, including Lincoln’s annual Lunar New Year celebration, helping people feel welcomed and connected while preserving important traditions.

Celebrating Nonprofit Leadership

Nonprofit work is not always easy or visible. It takes patience, resilience and the willingness to keep showing up for others. Amber, Emily, Latasha, Marthaellen and Thuy each demonstrate the difference one dedicated leader can make.

Filament congratulates all five nominees and thanks them for the many ways they strengthen Lincoln and the people who call it home.

Learn more about the Inspire Awards at inspirelincoln.com.