Volunteer Spotlight: Nick

“Plug the hole” is a principle that Nick Lynch learned while serving in the Army. It’s a creed that implores soldiers to do their best to resolve any issue they encounter; to improve every area they touch and leave it better for those who come behind. Nick is now an Army veteran, but he’s still applying that logic in his life today and using his Army skills to resolve issues and improve lives for our staff and guests at New Visions Homeless Services.

A few months ago, Nick and his wife decided that they wanted to volunteer in homeless services and got connected with our Omaha Veteran’s Campus. Through this connection, Nick came to understand the need for upgraded computers and laptops for both our staff and veterans at New Visions. When it comes to navigating technology systems for veterans, Nick brings a unique perspective. “Being a veteran myself,” says Nick, “I use the systems associated with receiving VA benefits. I figured if I was having a hard time navigating those benefits on a nice laptop in the comfort of my home, I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to access those systems for those trying to do it on their phone, without a computer, or with other limitations.” In order to help remedy this situation, Nick sourced and refurbished several machines for donation, but he found himself wanting to do even more. Nick worked with our staff to determine our greatest technology needs and offered to advocate for us with local businesses to seek out more donations of computers and laptops. “I’m willing to do the leg-work to help New Visions staff and veterans have access to updated technology,” says Nick.

Nick has reached out to several organizations already, but he’s eager to make more connections. If you represent a business or corporation that is upgrading technology or has computers to donate, Nick would love to talk with you about whether you might be able to donate your machines for this cause. Since Windows 10 will no longer be supported in just a few months, we are looking specifically for Windows 11 compatible machines. You can reach out to Nick at: nlynch@newvisionshs.org with inquiries. We’re incredibly grateful to Nick for being true to the values instilled in him in the Army, and that he’s using those values and skills to improve the lives of the guests we serve at New Visions.