
The new building offers plenty of community space as well as classrooms, kitchens and more. SUSAN SZALEWSKI/STAFF
News
Madonna unveils new name, new location for evolving ministry
January 16, 2025
Since Madonna School in Omaha was founded 65 years ago, it has undergone several moves, changes and expansions – all to improve the way it serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.
Now as the nonprofit continues its mission, it’s embarking on a new phase – with a new name, Madonna Ability Alliance, and a new home, at 7197 Pine Street.
“The rebranding to Madonna Ability Alliance represents a fresh chapter for the organization as it expands its vision and capacity to support individuals and families in the community,” the nonprofit said in a press release.
The new name and new building “represent more than just a name change – they signal the organization’s expanded focus on community integration and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.”
The changes were celebrated Jan. 15, when Archbishop George J. Lucas dedicated a second-floor chapel at the new location. Five other priests helped celebrate the 6:30 p.m. Mass, while supporters packed the chapel.

Archbishop George J. Lucas blesses the new chapel at Madonna Ability Alliance’s new home. SUSAN SZALEWSKI/STAFF
In his homily, Archbishop Lucas called Madonna’s service to the community “the healing work of Jesus.”
“It’s rooted in the desire of Jesus to meet people where they are, to incorporate them fully into the life of the human family, with their human dignity understood by them and visible to others in the community.”
“What a blessing it is for us in this Omaha community … that this healing mission of Jesus is so manifest here, so visible.”
Madonna Ability Alliance serves more than 200 youths and adults annually, president John Burt said.
Beginning a few years ago, students in elementary school were transitioned into other Omaha Catholic schools. They are currently being educated at St. Robert Bellarmine, St. Pius X/St. Leo and Holy Name schools.
Madonna’s new quarters will be home primarily for the older students and adults. The space is open and modern, designed to foster independence, creativity and personal development.
Programs offered include education, vocational training and family support services.
Madonna focuses on “empowering people of all abilities, championing their potential, and helping them achieve their personal goals,” according to the press release.
Burt encouraged supporters at the chapel dedication to explore the new building and its “neighborhoods.”
The new chapel offers people a place to encounter Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, Archbishop Lucas pointed out in his homily, “to meet Him, to talk to Him, to pray with Him. But we also know that He’s visible outside the doors of the chapel in so many, many ways.”
“I don’t think I’m going out on a limb,” he said, to “imagine that Jesus wants to be right in the middle of this place. … We could just see Him come right in the front door. And in fact, we believe He is here,” working through the people at Madonna.
“So thanks to all of you,” the archbishop said, “the leadership, the staff, the board, benefactors, all who participated in this work, for really making this manifestation of the healing power, the compassion of Jesus, so visible here in this community – and for allowing the families that are served by Madonna to be able to meet the Lord in such a personal way and to be touched in such a deep way by His compassion.”

Jon Burt, president of Madonna Ability Alliance
READ MORE FROM THE CATHOLIC VOICE: