MEDIA CONTACT
Erin Maier, (531) 893-1359,
Erin.Maier@nebraska.gov
Lincoln – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) announced the winners of the 2025 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Awards.
Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) and members of the developmental disabilities community across Nebraska had the opportunity to nominate individuals, providers, community leaders, and employers for one of four awards.
“It is inspiring to see providers, individuals, families, and employers champion creating a state with improved access to support and opportunities for Nebraskans with IDD to live meaningful, independent, and purpose-filled lives," said Tony Green, Director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities. “DHHS is proud to recognize all who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others."
The Community Leader Award is presented to:
- Sam Comfort – Omaha,
- Cambell Keber – Elkhorn, and
- Jay Gilbert – Crete.
This award recognizes a person or group who is extraordinary in giving their time (paid or unpaid) to help people with IDD. These selfless leaders work toward promoting independence and making positive changes. This leader showcases a passion for making advances in individual lives.
The Creative Employer Award is presented to:
- Wisper Skate Shop – Norfolk,
- Front Street Steakhouse – Ogallala, and
- High Street Insurance Partners – Norfolk.
This award recognizes a community employer who employs someone with IDD. This employer goes above and beyond expectations to help the employee thrive in their workplace. The culture at this place of employment is open and creative.
The Individual Spotlight Award is presented to:
- Jason Gieschen – Ogallala,
- Edward Kraska – Omaha, and
- Davonisha Tolbert-Baker – Omaha.
This award recognizes a person with IDD who has overcome adversity to achieve or go beyond their goals. This person demonstrates a drive to be better, a desire to be more independent, and wants to make a difference in their life and the lives of others.
The Outstanding Provider Award is presented to:
- Betty Poe (Independent Provider) – Hastings,
- Seth Jackson of Habilitative Opportunities – Lincoln, and
- Jean Hunt (Independent Provider) – Ainsworth.
This award recognizes a provider who excels in delivering services, strives for person-centered outcomes, creates or supports a welcoming culture, and goes above and beyond to support people with IDD to live their best life as defined by them.
For more information on programs for individuals with IDD, or to apply for services, please visit the DDD website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Developmental-Disabilities.aspx