The Donna Clinger Award, was established in 2018 in memory of Donna Clinger, Vice President of Quality Supports and Training, Alternatives, Inc., who not only embodied the qualities recognized above in her position, but volunteered her time to support the vision of NJACP from its inception. Those who knew Donna miss her and those who came after will benefit from her passion for ensuring the most vulnerable have the supports and services they need to be fully included in the community and for her part in building NJACP to the organization is it today. The NJACP Donna Clinger Award recognizes persons demonstrating outstanding dedication and commitment to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and promoting community inclusion. In addition to the criteria listed above in the Leadership Award, this award will be presented to the manager or supervisor whose dedication has helped advance or impact the I/DD Community.  (Read more about Donna Clinger attached.)

Recognition of employees that work tirelessly to support our consumers is well deserved; and while many will be nominated, only one will be chosen to receive each of these prestigious awards. And while the winners of each award will be the highlight of the award program at the luncheon, because recognition of employees for their commitment to the I/DD community is important, all candidates that are nominated will be recognized at the luncheon with honorable mentions. The selection criteria for the awards are attached.

I encourage each member agency to consider nominating an employee for each award.  Attached you will find an updated nomination packet.  Information regarding the selection process has also been included to assist members in providing the best representation of their nominee. 

It is important to note that only complete nomination packets that are received at the NJACP office no later than Monday, February 9, 2026, 11:59 p.m.., will be considered.  The nomination packets must include all written materials as well as the signature of the agency Executive Director/CEO as well as letters of support.  

We look forward to receiving your nominations.  Please sumbit your nominees any time before Monday, February 9, 2026, 11:59 p.m.  You will receive an email confirmation receipt within 24 hours.  If you have any questions, please contact Luis at (609) 406-1400 x 108. 

This year, we will be creating a video of the awardees, interviewing two – three persons who work closely with the awardee, so no extensions on this deadline can be given.  Video recordings will be on February 18, 2026 following the Monthly Membership Meeting. Location details to follow!

Good luck to all!

NJACP Community Champion Award
NJACP Employment Champion Award
NJACP Leadership Award