Noah Seiber, Marcela Martinez, Trask VanZant, and Kim White-Haynes

We are proud to celebrate four incredible members of the MV Advancements team who have been recognized for their outstanding work and dedication to the people we support. Their compassion, professionalism, and leadership inspire all of us to continue empowering people to live their best lives every single day.

Trask VanZant — Outstanding Employment Professional Award

Trask was honored with the Outstanding Employment Professional Award, recognizing a Job Developer, Job Coach, or other Employment Professional who exemplifies the best in Employment Supports at the Pacific Northwest APSE conference. Trask has been part of the MVA team for six years and is a Certified Employment Support Professional. He leads by example, empowering people to find meaningful employment and live their best lives. Each month, Trask shares his knowledge by offering training to other employment professionals, helping to elevate the entire field through his mentorship and commitment.

Noah Seiber — Employment Professional of the Year

Noah received the Employment Professional of the Year award from Polk and Marion County Employment First, a network of Supported Employment service providers who recognize excellence each year. This award celebrates an employment professional who went above and beyond to support people in finding community-based employment. Noah has been with MVA for nearly two years as an Employment Consultant. Fluent in American Sign Language, he specializes in supporting deaf and deaf+ individuals, helping each person find and succeed in inclusive, accessible workplaces. His empathy, skill, and advocacy make him an outstanding representative of our mission.

Marcela Martinez — Direct Support Professional of the Year

Marcela was recognized by the Community Providers Association of Oregon (CPAO) as Direct Support Professional of the Year. This prestigious award honors one exceptional employee who enriches the lives of people with disabilities and embodies CPAO’s values of diversity, partnership, integrity, and leadership. Marcela has been part of the MVA family for nearly 18 years, providing unwavering support to the people she serves and guidance to her fellow team members. Her dedication and compassion have made her a true cornerstone of our organization.

Kim White-Haynes — Day Support Activities Direct Support Professional of the Year

Kim received the DSA Direct Support Professional of the Year award for her outstanding work in MVA’s Day Support Activities program. This recognition celebrates an employee who enhances the lives of people with disabilities through creative, community-based activities that build skills and foster connection.

“I’ve been with MVA a little over four years,” Kim said. “My favorite part of the job is after working with someone, seeing the pride of accomplishment in now being able to do something independently.”

In her four years with MVA, Kim has led countless DSA activities across Yamhill County, always bringing energy, creativity, and joy to everyone she supports.

We are deeply thankful to Trask, Noah, Marcela, and Kim for their extraordinary contributions and for representing MVA’s mission every day. Their achievements remind us that when passion and purpose come together, incredible things happen.