Annual Awards 

BILL SACKTER CITIZENSHIP AWARD 

Purpose: To recognize an outstanding individual with an intellectual disability who is an achieving, included member of society. 

Eligibility:  The nominated person with an intellectual disability should meet the following criteria: 

• Must have lived in the community (independently, semi-independently or in a small group home). 

• Must be involved in the community in some activity, i.e., volunteer work, recreation, or a specific project, etc. 

• Must have shown growth in self-help skills, work skills and in independent living skills. 

• Must show success in competitive or supported employment. 

Basis for Selection: Selection of the recipient of the Bill Sackter Citizenship Award will be based on the individual’s demonstrated success in the community, consistent with The Arc’s Mission Statement and Position Statements. 

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR 

Purpose:  To recognize an individual employed in community intellectual disabilities services or supports who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding support which results in increased independence for people with intellectual disabilities. 

 Eligibility:  Any person employed in a field of direct service to people with intellectual disabilities, aside from teachers, who is having a positive impact on the social, vocational, psychological, medical, therapeutic, or other aspects of community living for individuals with intellectual disabilities.  Eligible occupations include, but are not limited to, social worker, individual service coordinator, direct care worker, psychologist, vocational counselor, therapist and program administrator. 

Basis for Selection:  An individual considered for this award must have: 

• Strived to help individuals with intellectual disabilities reach their highest degree of independence; 

• Provided assistance with sensitivity to the unique qualities and individual potential of people with intellectual disabilities; 

• Demonstrated a high degree of competence in his/her chosen field; 

• Influenced others by a positive attitude and performance of duties; reflected in The Arc’s mission and Position Statements.

• Strived to help individuals with intellectual disabilities reach their highest degree of independence;
  
  
  EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR  

Purpose: To confer special recognition on employers having exceptional records of providing inclusive competitive employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. 

Eligibility: Any employer at the state or local level who has employed adults with intellectual disabilities a minimum of one year is eligible for nomination.  Sheltered workshops are not eligible. 

Basis for Selection: Selection of the Employer of the Year is based on demonstrated excellence and commitment to creating and maintaining opportunities consistent with The Arc’s Mission Statement and Position Statements. 

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR 

Purpose: To recognize an educator who has demonstrated excellence in working with students who have intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. 

Eligibility: A nominee must have been actively employed as a paraprofessional or member of school faculty during the year the award is made. The nominee must also work regularly with students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.  

Basis for Selection:  An individual considered for this award must have: 

• Demonstrated teaching excellence in the classroom; 

• Positively influenced the attitudes and thinking of other educational professionals as well as the public regarding the education of students with intellectual disabilities; 

• Assisted in furthering The Arc’s goal of full educational opportunities for all students with intellectual disabilities; 

• Involved parents and others from the community in the educational process; 

• Fostered inclusion of students with disabilities in the educational process; 

• Exhibited practices and beliefs consistent with The Arc’s Mission Statement and Position Statements.  

Lifetime Achievement Award 

Purpose: This award is for someone who The Arc of Cass County believes should be recognized for excellence in their career that involves serving people with disabilities. This person must go above and beyond their professional duties to help guide people with disabilities to live the lives they envision for themselves.   

Eligibility: A nominee must have been actively employed in human services who during their career, has shown exemplary commitment to serving people with disabilities.