By Trish Haniszewski, Development Officer
For years, Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries has been blessed by the generosity and steadfast support of the Rogers Foundation, with Mary Kay Jones at the heart of this partnership. Inspired by her father Rex Marquart’s lifelong commitment to helping others, Mary joined the Rogers Foundation board, embracing its mission to strengthen organizations and communities in Lincoln and beyond.
Mary’s connection to NLOM runs deep. As a teenager, she visited the camp with her church group from Our Saviour’s Lutheran in Lincoln, Neb. Years later, her own children experienced the life-changing environment of NLOM.
“The values that NLOM supports and gives to everyone drew me to helping expand it,” Mary reflected. “They welcome people from all walks of life, no matter their beliefs.”
The Rogers Foundation’s ongoing support has been instrumental in helping NLOM grow and endure—especially through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mary has stuck with us through difficult times and has been a truly wonderful partner. She is always excited to hear updates and see the impact of the foundation’s gifts. Their recent support of the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign has been remarkable.
When asked about a defining moment behind the foundation’s generosity, Mary couldn’t name just one. Instead, she spoke of countless moments—campers building friendships, growing in faith, and discovering
new strengths.
Looking to the future, Mary is excited about NLOM’s lasting impact.
“NLOM will be here for generations to come, and families will return every year to enjoy this amazing place,” she said. “The passion of the staff and volunteers is so clear—you can see it in their faces and hear it in the way they talk about coming back year after year.”
Mary Kay Jones and the Rogers Foundation embody the spirit of generosity that makes NLOM a place of faith, growth, and belonging. Thanks to their dedication, campers today—and for generations to come—will continue to find joy, purpose, and community at NLOM.
