About the Award
The Dan Van Hecke Award was created in 2009 to honor the work of a man who dedicated his life to empowering the disability community. Dan's inexhaustible efforts to create more avenues of independence for, and invest in, people with disabilities are reflected in this award. The award is presented annually to a person who exemplifies Outstanding Leadership and Service for the disability community.
The Dan Van Hecke Award was created in 2009 to honor the work of a man who dedicated his life to empowering the disability community. Dan's inexhaustible efforts to create more avenues of independence for, and invest in, people with disabilities are reflected in this award. The award is presented annually to a person who exemplifies Outstanding Leadership and Service for the disability community.
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Dan Van Hecke Dan Van Hecke was a major organizer of the Disability Pride Parade and was instrumental in sustaining the Disability Pride Parade for many years, until his passing in 2008. He was also an accessible taxi driver who spearheaded the Taxi Access Program in Chicago. This yearly award honor's Dan's memory and the continued efforts of advocates like him. |
Selection Criteria
• Disability – Must be a person with a disability, a family member, friend or ally to the disability community.
• Leadership – Displays the ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Initiative – Demonstrates ability to take charge by creating or developing a local program, project, or activity that impacts the disability community.
• Creativity – Develops/proposes creative ways to accomplish goals and objectives.
• Integrity - Deals ethically in relationships. Maintains a fair, honorable and open environment.
• Empowerment - Empowers other by sharing responsibility, authority, effort, enthusiasm, information, vision, talent, and credit.