Rabble Mill becomes The Bay, opening a new era of education for Lincoln youth

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Rabble Mill is merging with one of its branches, The Bay, and is now known by that name.

The nonprofit has long been a pillar of youth engagement and workforce education in Lincoln.

Before, The Bay was part of Rabble Mill, but now there is no distinction between the two.

Officials said the move is to eliminate confusion.

Co-founder Mike Smith said it’s more than just a collaboration; it’s a movement.

“The thing that makes The Bay a game-changer in Nebraska is the space that we have is dedicated towards creative, innovative, culture-pushing activities,” he said. “And most communities want things like this but don’t have access to it.”

Audrey Hertel, marketing and communications manager at The Bay, said the organization wants to push its students to explore.

“We want you to fail, we want you to try new things, we want you to learn, grow and figure out what you want to do,” she said. “A lot of times when you go through a traditional program and you don’t do well the first time, that’s it for you.”

One of the key features of The Bay is its skatepark, a space where youth can come together, build confidence and express themselves.

It’s an opportunity for young people to not only develop their talents but also explore potential career paths in creative industries.

This is not the only big change for The Bay this year.

“One of the most exciting parts of 2025 is we have expanded into Omaha,” Smith said. “We recently helped renovate the Benson Community Center.”

He said the nonprofit helped turn the community center’s gym into a skatepark and plans to be in the community for a long time.

Smith said this is not the death of Rabble Mill, but the rebirth of The Bay.

Whether it’s in the classroom, the skatepark, or the music room, The Bay said its committed to helping young people find their passion.

“We really want to meet kids where they’re at and give them what they need and what they’re excited for and what they’re excited to do,” Hertel said.