Denise Gehringer

From the day my fourth son was born with Down syndrome, my life’s mission became clear: to understand, support, and empower him and, ultimately, to advocate for all people with developmental disabilities (DD). This personal journey led me to work toward creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live healthy, fulfilling, and self-determined lives.

As the CEO of Sheltering Tree, I’m proud to lead an organization that builds and operates consumer-controlled, safe, affordable, and community-centered apartments for adults with DD. Our mission is rooted in empowerment, ensuring those we serve have the independence and environment they need to engage in their communities and achieve their life’s goals.

Before joining Sheltering Tree, I served as Program Coordinator for several initiatives at the Arc of Omaha at Ollie Webb Center, including The Next Chapter Book Club, Parent to Parent, The PRISM Project, and the Ultimate Life Program. I also provided legislative advocacy support, to advance the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities.

My commitment to this work extends beyond my professional life. I’ve served in leadership roles with several organizations, including the Munroe-Meyer Institute at UNMC, the Education Rights Counsel, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands, and the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska, some of which I am still involved with currently. I am a member of the Nebraska State ADA Task Force, and the National Down Syndrome Congress Advocacy Coalition. As a 2019 ABLE National Resource Center Ambassador, I’ve worked to promote financial empowerment and independence for people with disabilities.

Whether through program development, policy advocacy, or community-building efforts, my driving force remains the same: to help individuals with DD thrive in environments where they feel safe, valued, and included. I welcome opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and champion the vision of a more inclusive world.