North Platte, NE - The Nebraska State Rehabilitation Council has recognized North Platte’s Pizza Ranch as the recipient of the 2025 Disability Employment and Inclusion Small Business Recognition Award for its ongoing commitment to hiring and supporting employees with disabilities through Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation (Nebraska VR).
Owner Shay Caldwell says the restaurant’s partnership with Nebraska VR has been a meaningful success story from the very beginning. Job coaches initially helped new employees with applications and interview preparation — support that quickly became unnecessary as workers gained confidence and independence on the job.
“Our employees who came to us from Nebraska VR are some of our most valuable employees that we have,” Caldwell said.
Caldwell, who also owns a local bicycle shop, said the collaboration with Nebraska VR began there — providing bikes as transportation for VR clients — and expanded naturally when Pizza Ranch opened in North Platte.
“It has been the best thing we have ever done,” she said. “These employees have become family. One of them calls me ‘Mama Shay,’ refers to my daughter as his sister, and he’s just the bright light in this place.”
The Nebraska VR program, part of the Nebraska Department of Education, helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment while supporting businesses through inclusive hiring partnerships. The State Rehabilitation Council reviews and advises on VR programs, recognizing businesses that demonstrate leadership in disability inclusion.
Caldwell says the award reinforces her team’s focus on community and compassion — values that have guided the restaurant since opening just over a year ago.
“We love them as family,” she said. “Nebraska VR — if you haven’t yet jumped in, jump in with both feet. You won’t regret it.”
Caldwell also shared how the support from her team has lifted her personally as she begins a cancer journey, saying one employee writes her weekly notes of encouragement and prayers.
“It means more to me than anyone will ever know,” she said.
The Nebraska State Rehabilitation Council’s Small Business Recognition Award highlights employers across the state who promote inclusive workplaces and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.