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About the Award

Purpose and Focus of the Recognition


Out of deep respect and high regard for Henri J. M. Nouwen, his pastoral heart, sensitive
compassion and dedication to each individual’s spirituality, the Religion Division of the
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities has created the
Henri Nouwen Award. Through this award the Religion Division seeks to recognize
and acknowledge individuals who reflect a “Nouwen style” of compassion for,
commitment and dedication to ministry and servanthood that values and esteems people
with developmental disabilities.

Award Criteria

  1. Demonstrates a devotion to follow a sense of call and vocation in relationships, or in community, with people having developmental disabilities.
  2. Demonstrates the understanding of and the capacity to blend the pastoral and prophetic dimensions of ministry and service to others.
  3. Demonstrates a capacity to expand and enhance our understanding of the spiritual needs and gifts of people with developmental disabilities.
  4. Demonstrates the competence to write and teach while also living in community, or having direct relationships, with people having developmental disabilities and their families.
  5. Demonstrates, in one’s life and writing, the competence to build bridges of understanding about and to meet individual spiritual needs and the ability fo meet those needs by illuminating the power of vulnerability and community.

Nomination Procedure


  1. Nominations for the award recognition should be submitted to the Chairperson ofthe Henri Nouwen Award Committee by December 31st. The Chairperson is listed under AAIDD Division Leadership as the Past President.
  2. Nominations should include:
    1. a brief biography/vitae
    2. a description of articles published, writings, etc.
    3. a description of professional and practical experiences related to the field of developmental disabilities
    4. a rationale for consideration of the nominee.
  3. Award will be presented at the National AAIDD Conference, held every year at the end of May. Nominees expenses to be paid to attend the conference.
  4. Nominee would be requested to make a presentation or conduct a workshop.