Our Mission
Our Story
Global Friends Omaha grew out of a simple practice of hospitality.
What began more than 30 years ago as welcoming refugees and international students into a home has grown into a lasting ministry of friendship, support, and cross-cultural connection in Omaha.
Our Story
More than 30 years ago, as refugees and international students began arriving in Omaha, Julie Arant's father welcomed newcomers into his home and community. After the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Afghan refugees were among those who came. Years later, Julie taught English in Pakistan to Afghan refugees who had fled the Taliban. When she returned to Omaha, she founded Global Friends to continue creating a place of welcome, friendship, and support for people from around the world.
Our Mission
Global Friends is a campus and community organization that exists to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of international students and scholars. Through weekly gatherings, shared meals, conversation, and community events, we create welcoming spaces for friendship, hospitality, and cross-cultural connection in Omaha so that people can connect, belong, and feel at home.
