12/21/25

Heartland Foundation grants DSNWK for Otoscopes

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce a grant award from the Heartland Community Foundation in the amount of $905.28. The grant will go toward the purchase of two otoscopes for DSNWK’s nursing staff based in the Hays area.

The otoscopes, which are used to visualize and examine the ear canal and eardrum, will be used by DSNWK nurses to evaluate and monitor the auditory health of individuals during routine check-ups, contributing to current health monitoring practices.  “We are grateful to the Heartland Community Foundation for this grant award,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President. “Having this type of equipment allows DSNWK to meet the health needs of those we serve.”

12/10/25

DSNWK benefits from generosity of RCCF

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) is proud to announce a grant award from the Rawlins County Community Foundation in the amount of $5,000. The grant will go toward climate control and safety upgrades for its Plumb Street home in Atwood.  

The grant will be used for the installation of a heating/air unit in the garage area of the home. This important facility upgrade is needed to convert usable space in a portion of the converted garage area to ensure temperature stability for food pantry items, storage of personal items, and a working area for our maintenance personnel. 

“With the number of individuals residing in this home, it has become necessary to convert this last remaining unfinished space by adding climate control capacity for this area,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President and CEO. “This will be better for essential inventory, including pantry items, donated food, and resources secured through bulk purchases.”

11/25/25

DSNWK awarded grant from Beach Family Foundation

A grant for more than $20,000 was received by Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas from the Beach Family Foundation to enhance communication, improve community engagement and support its Custom Creations work environment. 

Specifically, this grant will be instrumental in enhancing DSNWK’s public presence and communication through electronic displays at their office locations throughout its service area. The displays will showcase achievements, program updates, community events, and information about services which will improve communication with visitors, families, and the public.

The grant will also be used to upgrade Custom Creations workspace with new cabinets, new display photos and merchandise display racks. These additions to our  downtown Hays store will better showcase the exceptional work and talent of DSNWK’s many artists.

Finally, the Beach Family grant will be used to replace outdated manufacturing technology, and improve the overall work environment for Custom Creations. DSNWK will purchase two additional Cricut machines, a Cricut Autopress, a Glowforge Pro, a sublimation machine, and new work tables.

“Adding these items to our creative options allows DSNWK to provide a more comprehensive, effective, and modern environment that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential and foster greater connections and understanding in our community,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President.

11/18/2025

McMurtrie Golf tournament raises over $16,900 

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is pleased to announce that the Esther McMurtrie Memorial Golf Tournament raised over $16,900. The 4 person scramble tournament was held on Friday, September 12th at the Ellis Golf Club. Proceeds are being used for the renovation of one of DSNWK’s group living homes in Hays. A total of 20 teams participated in the event that included flight and raffle prizes and lunch on the course.  DSNWK would like to thank the many participants, contributors and supporters who made the event a success.

11/13/2025

DSNWK Celebrates Successes at Awards Luncheon

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas hosted its annual awards luncheon in Hays on October 21st. Awards were given throughout the afternoon to staff, persons served, and community members.  The first awards of the afternoon were given to employees of DSNWK for their years of service. Those staff recognized and listed by location, were:

Atwood - Amber Barnett, Martina Urban

Hays -  Robert Begler, Janet Bolander, Derek Crabtree, Tammy Dreiling, Terri Farrington, Timothy Gohl, Jeremy Goodale, Michael Greene, Kathrine Hampton, Hazen Hance, Timothy Herman, Magdalen Housman, Madeline Hutchins, LeAnne Kroeger, Vanessa Moore, Cheryl Morgan, Jared Normandin, Alicia Preston, Leah Schlyer, Terry Schmeidler, Lance Sprick

Hill City - Cynthia Bauer, Kelly Granger, Dawn Powell

Norton - Deirdre Nelson

Russell - Tamara Lynch, Sandra Nietzke

Recognition was made to six people who retired from DSNWK over the past year.  They were; Connie Fross, Dale Haag, Deanna Leiker, Denise Stritt, Audrey Ummel and Paul Wildeman.  

Special recognition was also paid to three staff members for their outstanding work with persons with disabilities.  April LeJuene of Atwood, Dilene Reinhardt of Hays, and Dawn Rose, of Russell were each presented with the Employee of the Year Award. 

A $100 scholarship award was presented to Alyssa Cole who is attending Fort Hays State University.  This award was given from the Jerelyn Becker Memorial Scholarship Fund for employees studying in higher education in a field related to serving people with developmental disabilities.

Several awards were given to individuals served by DSNWK for achievement through employment.  Those receiving awards and listed by location were: 

Atwood - Kelly Fisher, Judy Leiker

Hays - Jimmy Brungardt, Matthew Green, Jacob Houghton, Olivia Hueneke, Anthony Morgan, Derrick Morton, Dallas Rupp, Asia Schonthaler, Tyrone Schumacher, Trenton Uhl

Hill City -  Alyssa Logue, Val Stradel

Plainville - Haley Ciarallo

DSNWK’s newest awards recognized contractors through its Shared Living program.  Those receiving awards for one year were: Kiera Goodwin, Kimberly Griffith, Gloria Johnson, Tabitha Madden, Casey Whitley and Landon Williams of Goodland.

DSNWK presented two Individual Achievement Awards to individuals served by DSNWK.  AeraAna Austin Oder of Lucas and Jared Barnes of Hill City were presented these awards which go each year to one youth and one adult who have shown tremendous individual progress throughout the year.  

Awards were presented to community individuals and businesses.  Master Cleaners in Hays received DSNWK's Employer of the Year Award for their outstanding support of people with disabilities in the workforce.  The Community Support Award was presented to U-Save Pharmacy of Hays for their support of DSNWK’s Employment Connections.  Recognition was made to Martin Jimenez of Hays with DSNWK’s Good Neighbor Award for his outstanding volunteerism.  

Finally, DSNWK recognized two long-time advocates of DSNWK for their support with its Vision of Hope Awards.  The Scheopner Family of Goodland and Connie Weber and the late Allan Weber of Oakley were honored.  DSNWK paid tribute to them for their outstanding support over the years for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

11/10/2025

Pete Henry Foundation supports DSNWK’s Hoxie Location

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce a grant award from the Pete Henry Foundation in the amount of $1,350.00. The grant will go toward the purchase and construction of a new gazebo for DSNWK’s Hoxie Developmental Center. 

The gazebo will be a designated space providing a safe, shaded outdoor area for outdoor recreational activities, and socialization, directly benefiting the well-being of the individuals receiving services in Hoxie and also for the community. “We believe this investment will provide a practical and useful outdoor space for individuals served,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President. “The gazebo will enhance their daily experiences and foster a greater sense of community.”

DSNWK would like to thank the Pete Henry Foundation for their continued support of DSNWK and its mission in the Hoxie area.

10/21/2025

Michaud awarded the Mark Elmore Award

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) congratulates  DSNWK President/CEO,  Jerry Michaud, for receiving InterHab’s Mark Elmore Award for Leadership.

This award recognizes outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Michaud’s vision, compassion, and guidance continue to make a lasting impact across communities in the northwest Kansas area.  

“Jerry is a consistent leader and compassionate about the work he does,” states Colin McKenney, InterHab Board Member.  “He is concerned about everyone around him and props people up.  That’s just the kind of person he is.”

Michaud received this recognition at InterHab’s annual conference on October 10th in Manhattan.  

InterHab works in partnership with its 40-plus member organizations to educate legislators and community leaders about the benefits of community inclusivity and advocates for the funding and resources to make community-based services possible.

10/16/2025

Graham County Community Foundation Grant

A grant in the amount of $2,108.00 has been awarded to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) by the Graham County Community Foundation for Empowering Lives: Mobility and Accessibility Upgrades. The grant will be used for essential equipment and furnishings for Kobler Developmental Center and the Prout Street Home in Hill City. This includes transport chairs, shower chairs, rolling carts, and outdoor furniture to enhance safety, dignity, and accessibility.

“The need for this project was determined directly by our frontline direct care staff who have daily contact with the people we serve,” states President Jerry Michaud. “Through their daily observations and documentation, they identified the evolving needs of the aging population in our care.”

This initiative directly supports DSNWK’s mission to ensure every person served by DSNWK has access to the resources and environments that provide them with the opportunities for greater independence.

08/11/2025

KDADS supports DSNWK with grant

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, was recently announced as the recipient of a grant from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).  

This grant will be used to acquire and implement key training programs to enhance staff competency and improve service delivery within the day service model. These training programs are designed to provide staff with specialized skills and knowledge, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals with I/DD. 

In addition, staff will have access to better training tools to help them provide effective education for individuals served. As a provider, implementing these additional curriculums, training, and certifications, DSNWK will be in better alignment with the new Day Service licensing expectations. 

“With this grant our staff will have the additional tools needed to be skilled, knowledgeable, and prepared to provide person-centered services based on a person's desired lifestyle that promotes their independence, community inclusion, and personal growth within the new day service model,” states Jerry Michaud, President. “This investment in high-quality curriculum will ensure that the training is both effective and respectful of the unique needs of the individuals we serve. This will aid in helping those served having greater inclusion and independence within the community.”

07/31/25

Midwest Energy supports DSNWK’s Kid-Link with grant

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK), was recently announced as the recipient of a $1,000 grant from Midwest Energy, Inc. This award will be used in DSNWK’s Kid-Link Early Intervention Program to provide Transition Backpacks.

The Transition Backpacks are provided to every Kid-Link child in the program upon turning 3 years old. Each Transition Backpack includes items from the developmental areas that are of importance for the child as they grow in their communication, social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills. 

“These backpacks have been helpful to parents in continuing their children’s learning,” states DSNWK President Jerry Michaud. “We are grateful for Midwest Energy’s support and the children are always excited to get the backpacks.”

The DSNWK Kid-Link Early Intervention Program provides a system of services to help infants and toddlers from birth to age three who have a developmental delay, diagnosed disability, or are at risk for a developmental delay including vision and hearing impairments. 

DSNWK would like to thank Midwest Energy for their generous support of the people we serve.

07/16/25

DSNWK Awarded Community Service Tax Credits

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) has been awarded $162,000 through the Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce at the 50% rate. The tax credits are available to donors on a first come, first served basis and are expected to go quickly.

Tax credits are an incentive for donors to give to charity and non profit organizations. Any tax credit issued by DSNWK that exceeds the state tax liability of the donor is refunded to the taxpayer.  “The donor can use the tax credit against their unpaid Kansas state taxes, or receive the credit back as a refund,” said Jerry Michaud, President/CEO of DSNWK.

Businesses and individuals subject to Kansas income tax are eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. Donors giving at least $250 to DSNWK may qualify for a 50% tax credit. For example, a donor making a $1,000 gift receives a $500 tax credit when they file their state taxes, making the net cost to the donor only $500.

“We are very thankful and excited to once again have the opportunity to offer these tax credits for donors,” said Michaud. “These donations will be used for essential improvements and upgrades to accessibility, safety, security, and capacity needs in DSNWK locations. These improvements not only provide a better quality of life for those we serve, but also ensure our service settings are efficient and sustainable.” 

DSNWK’s goal is to improve the accessibility, safety, security, and capacity needs through upgrades to developmental centers and group homes, which serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the 18 northwest Kansas counties.

The CSP Tax Credits provide an opportunity for non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services. Awarded nonprofits were chosen through a competitive application process. This year approximately $4.1 million in funding was awarded to 30 organizations across the state.

If you or your business are interested in donating to DSNWK and to receive tax credits, please reach out to the DSNWK Major Gift and Planned Giving Officer at 785-625-5678.

06/27/25

DSNWK and Masons award grant for stander

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce a grant award of $2,707.11 to an Oberlin family who has a child with developmental disabilities. 

The money awarded will be applied to the purchase of a special standing device for the child to help them learn to walk. The Easy Stand Bantam is specifically designed to support the child as they learn to bear weight and gain independence.  

“DSNWK is proud to offer this grant award.” states Jerry Michaud, President of DSNWK. “This is exactly what this fund was meant to do. Help children in Decatur County, to live with greater independence and purpose.”

A special fund has been established by The Kansas Masonic Foundation and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, Inc (DSNWK) for children residing in Decatur County Kansas who have physical disabilities. This fund, called the Mountain Slope Masonic Lodge Special Needs Fund for Decatur County, has been established at DSNWK through a generous anonymous estate gift. 

All interested parties must complete an application. The intended recipient must live in Decatur County, Kansas, be 18 years of age or younger and have a diagnosed physical disability. A complete list of criteria is available on DSNWK’s website www.mydsnwk.org.

06/25/25

ACCESS Public Transportation faces 2026 budget shortfall

Posted Jun 25, 2025 5:01 AM

By TONY GUERRERO, Hays Post

ACCESS General Public Transportation in Hays is bracing for a 2026 funding gap after state funding fell short to keep rides rolling.

Jerry Michaud, DSNWK executive director, said KDOT has provided some funding for 2026, but it falls short, and with the city and county also unable to fully cover the deficit, a significant gap remains.

Michaud said the gap is about $161,000, with the city of Hays contributing $82,500 and Ellis County providing $50,000.

"We definitely appreciate the support of the county and the support of the city. They've been great partners all along the way," Michaud said.

ACCESS offers public transportation primarily to low-income, elderly and disabled individuals. Michaud said the service provided about 28,000 rides in 2024, with more than 11,000 of those trips related to work.

Michaud said there are no plans for immediate changes to the service.

"We've been able to make it work through 2025, but for 2026, we are seeing a deficit of which we're trying to find a solution to that," Michaud said.

05/21/25

Dash 4 Disabilities Fast Approaching

The Hays Recreation Commission’s 14th Annual Dash 4 Disabilities is right around the corner.  The fun run is scheduled for Saturday, June 7th at 8:00 a.m. on the West side of the Hays Aquatic Park (4th and Main).  Registration will begin at 7:15 a.m.  This run will consist of your choice of a 1 mile run/walk or a 5K run/walk. 

There is still time to register for this fun event for an entry fee of only $10 on or before June 4th. Cost after June 5th is $12. 

The run is for people of all abilities, will not be timed, and the proceeds will go to help support the programs coordinated by the Hays Recreation Commission that support people with intellectual and developmental   disabilities.   The run helps make the programs free or inexpensive for participants.  

Dash 4 Disabilities is sponsored by Hess Services, Papa Murphys and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.

For a registration form, map of the course, or any other information, contact Haley Nixon at 785-623-2650, haley@haysrec.org or go to www.haysrec.org.

05/01/25

DSNWK benefits from generosity of RCCF

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) is proud to announce that they are the recipients of a Rawlins County Universal Grant: “A Seat at the Table” in the amount of $649.95. The grant will go toward the purchase of new chairs for DSNWK’s College for Living program at Prairie Developmental Center (PDC) in Atwood. 

As College for Living participants age, they require additional mobility support to remain engaged and as independent as possible. The need for new chairs was identified through staff observations and participant feedback, highlighting the importance of having seating with armrests for easier transitions between sitting and standing.

“Many of the persons served at PDC face mobility challenges as they age and the current chairs do not provide the needed support because they lack the arm rests,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President. “Having chairs with arm rests aid in their transition from sitting to standing and also minimize fall risks.”

04/14/25

Dancing Together for DSNWK raises more than $21,000!

A check for $21,306.45 was presented to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas from the Dancing Together for DSNWK event held on Sunday, March 2nd at Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Hays. Hays High School senior Allison Dreiling and Thomas More Prep-Marian senior Macara Rohr along with Alyssa Dechant with Styles Dance Centre presented the check on Thursday, April 3rd.

Styles Dance Centre has hosted the event for several years with this year raising the most money of any other year. A large raffle with a variety of donated prizes was also a contributing factor to the success of the recital.

37 individuals served by DSNWK participated in the recital which featured dances by both the dancers at Styles, HHS Cheer, FHSU Tiger Debs as well as special group dances featuring individuals served by DSNWK. 

“This event is really inspiring,” said Dechant. “ It's truly my favorite show of our season.”

04/07/25

Hays Lions Club supports DSNWK with grant

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is proud to announce that they have received a $500.00 grant award from the Hays Lions Club for the vision needs of the people they serve who have developmental disabilities. The grant will go to support DSNWK's Consumer Medical Fund. This Fund assists individuals with the cost of medical items and care that are not covered by Medicaid, items such as eye glasses and other vision needs. The Hays Lion’s Club has consistently supported our mission for 17 years and impacted many individuals whom we have served.  DSNWK would like to thank the Hays Lions Club for their continuous support of people with developmental disabilities.

03/21/25

DSNWK benefits from the support of the United Way of Ellis County

and the CARE Council

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is grateful to announce that The United Way of Ellis County has allocated $26,220 for the Job Placement Follow-along program for the FY 2025 budget year. Follow-along services are provided to individuals who complete DSNWK's Job Placement Program for support to maintain employment and for additional training in the future. DSNWK’s Job Placement Follow-along program can provide timely support before the individual loses their employment and helps reduce the dollars spent on job procurement, training new employees, and unemployment or disability payments. 

The United Way of Ellis County has also allocated $35,000 to DSNWK’s Kid-Link program for its Early Intervention Services for FY 2025. The DSNWK Kid-Link Early Intervention Program provides a system of services to help infants and toddlers from birth to the age of three who have a developmental delay, diagnosed disability, or are at risk for a developmental delay including vision and hearing impairments. Through early intervention services, DSNWK’s Kid-Link program can also help reduce the educational costs by minimizing the need for special education services. 

ACCESS Public Transportation was informed by the CARE Council of Ellis County that they have recommended an allocation to the Hays City Commission for an award of $82,500 for transportation services from the City of Hays Social Service Funds for the FY 2026 budget. ACCESS provides general public transportation services to the people of Hays and Ellis County. 

DSNWK would like to thank the United Way of Ellis County, and all who give to the United Way, for their continued support of people with developmental disabilities and to the Care Council for recommending an allocation to the City of Hays for ACCESS general public transportation.

03/20/25

PDC Receives Grant from Second Century Fund

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) is pleased to announce a grant award of $650.00 from the Second Century Fund for the purchase of chairs for its College for Living program at Prairie Developmental Center (PDC) in Atwood.

These chairs will greatly support  the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served by DSNWK who utilize the College for Living program at PDC. The College For Living offers persons receiving services from DSNWK structured learning opportunities covering life skills and various educational and leisure topics, and is tailored to an individual's wants and needs.

“The benefit of these chairs selected are that they have armrests which will provide greater functionality for those individuals with mobility issues,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President. “With the individuals at PDC getting older and needing assistance, these chairs with arms will work better for them when standing up from a sitting position and sitting down. At DSNWK, we are so grateful for all the support through the Second Century Fund.”

02/24/25

Dancing Together for DSNWK set for March 2 in Hays

An event coming in March will celebrate inclusion with dance. Dancing Together for Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is a vibrant dance recital in Hays.

The free event, which will take place on March 2 at the Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center at Fort Hays State University, begins with raffle sales at 4 p.m. and ends with the show at 5 p.m.

DSNWK, Styles Dance Centre and two high school students are leading the event to raise funds and awareness for individuals with disabilities.

Hays High School senior Allison Dreiling and Thomas More Prep-Marian senior Macara Rohr have long participated in Dancing Together and are now choreographing and planning the event.

"Music is such a good thing for individuals with disabilities, and it just reaches a different part of their brain. They all love it so much," Dreiling said.

"Getting to see their faces is so much fun," Rohr said. "Getting to be more a part of it was a big thing for me."

Dancing Together includes a raffle with donated baskets from local businesses and community members. Proceeds benefit DSNWK's Spring Fling, an annual gathering for individuals with disabilities across 18 counties.

Raffle prizes include coolers, sneakers and gift cards. Tickets are priced at $1 each, $5 for six and $20 for 25.

Styles Dance Centre owner Alyssa DeChant said the event originated from a Fort Hays State University leadership class. It has since grown into an annual tradition and is Rohr's chosen class project with assistance from Dreiling.

"It really is inspiring. It's truly my favorite show of our season," DeChant said.

The Dancing Together event has been in the works since December and brings together participants ages 5 to 60 as they prepare to take the stage for their big performance.

Alison Krier of DSNWK said their clients were excited when they learned about the practice. They asked about it daily until they arrived at the center to rehearse in large and small groups.

"They have a blast when they get here. They're very excited," Krier said. "They enjoy meeting all of the different partners that they get assigned with, being able to have a fun day out of classes and day services."

Steve Keil, DSNWK's development director, enjoys watching connections form between the dancers and the individuals his organization serves.

"Inclusion is a real possibility. Inclusion is part of how we should be as a community and society," Keil said.

01/10/25

DSNWK’s Hoxie Center Receives Surprise Grant from Sheridan County Community Foundation

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is pleased to announce a $500 grant for its developmental center in Hoxie.  This Golden Star Surprise Grant was made possible due to the Dueling Pianos event held on November 23rd.  The grant was recommended by the Sheridan County Community Initiative Fund, at the Sheridan County Community Foundation, an Affiliate Foundation of Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation.

“This grant was certainly a surprise to us and a blessing, especially during the Christmas season.  This will be put to good use at our Hoxie Center,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President.