Nebraska VR partners recognized for efforts in disability employment and workplace inclusion

Five organizations and individuals in Nebraska have been recognized for their efforts to promote disability employment and inclusive workplaces through the 2025 SRC Disability Employment and Inclusion Awards. These awards, organized by the Nebraska State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) Employment Committee, honor partners who have worked with Nebraska VR to support people with disabilities in finding and maintaining meaningful employment.

Nebraska VR is a state program that provides personalized assistance to people with disabilities, helping them secure jobs that match their interests and strengths. The program also works with employers to identify and retain quality employees.

Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly praised the award recipients, stating, “I am pleased to be part of this celebration of businesses and their partnership with Nebraska VR. Nebraskans of all skills, talents, and abilities are needed to help our economy grow. These businesses deserve recognition for their leadership.”

Dr. Brian Maher, Nebraska Commissioner of Education, acknowledged the honorees, saying, “These individuals and businesses have demonstrated strong leadership in providing opportunities for learning, earning, and living.” He also recognized Nebraska VR staff for their work with students, clients, and businesses.

Nebraska VR Director Lindy Foley commented on the significance of the awards during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), which is observed in October. “During October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we are pleased to recognize four business partners and a Champion of Disability Employment,” Foley said. “The theme for NDEAM 2025 is ‘Celebrating Value and Talent’. These awardees clearly embody those who recognize value and talent and who provide access to good jobs for individuals with disabilities.”

The recipients were selected from nominations by Nebraska VR Business Account Managers and Employment Specialists.

Generations Daycare & Learning Center in Scottsbluff received the New Business Partner Recognition Award. The partnership began when Nebraska VR’s Michael Enriquez reached out to local childcare providers, leading to a successful placement and continued collaboration with owner Sherri Williams.

Pizza Ranch in North Platte was given the Small Business Partner Recognition Award for its inclusive hiring practices and willingness to adapt training methods to support job seekers with disabilities. The business has hired five Nebraska VR clients as a result of the partnership.

Behlen Manufacturing Company in Columbus received a Large Business Partner Recognition Award. The company, which employs over 100 people in metal fabrication, has hired more than ten Nebraska VR clients in the past year. Behlen provides workplace tours, job shadows, and internships, and adapts roles and accommodations to fit individual needs.

Another Large Business Partner Recognition Award went to Pizza Ranch in Omaha. The restaurant chain has partnered with Nebraska VR for four years, offering work-based learning experiences and hiring clients for permanent positions. Regional Manager Scott Parrill also serves on the State Rehabilitation Council.

Deb Schauer of Kearney was named Champion of Disability Employment. Schauer has worked in special education and as a Special Olympics coach for three decades. She now trains students at Project SEARCH at CHI Good Samaritan Hospital to prepare them for competitive employment.

The awards highlight the ongoing partnership between Nebraska VR and businesses committed to supporting employees with disabilities.