Empowering Abilities Awards Three Debra “Deb” Lindbom Memorial Scholarships to Invest in Staff and the Future of Disability Services
[DAVENPORT, IOWA] – [July 27, 2026] – Empowering Abilities is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Debra “Deb” Lindbom Memorial Scholarship, recognizing three dedicated team members whose commitment to continued learning will strengthen services for individuals with disabilities throughout the Quad Cities region.
This year’s recipients are:
- Roman Reese, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at the University of Northern Iowa
- Taleigha Ellis, enrolled in the Medical Assisting Program at Midwest Technical Institute
- Steven Cargill, pursuing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Certification through Eastern Iowa Community College
Established in memory of longtime Empowering Abilities participant Debra “Deb” Lindbom, the scholarship honors Deb’s legacy by investing in employees who are committed to professional growth while enhancing the lives of the individuals they support.
Deb spent many years as part of the Empowering Abilities family and was known for her strength, determination, and infectious spirit. She left a lasting impression on employees and fellow participants who had the privilege of knowing her. Today, the scholarship continues her legacy by creating opportunities for employees to pursue education and specialized training that ultimately enriches the lives of the individuals Empowering Abilities serves every day.
“The Debra ‘Deb’ Lindbom Memorial Scholarship is about turning one person’s legacy into opportunities for many others,” said Jeff Ashcraft, President and CEO of Empowering Abilities. “By investing in our employees’ education, we strengthen our organization, enhance the services we provide, and ensure that people with disabilities continue to receive the highest quality support for years to come.”
Each scholarship recipient represents a unique path of professional development that reflects Empowering Abilities’ mission of creating opportunities and changing lives.
Roman Reese, who currently serves as a Daily Discovery Mentor, is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. His studies will deepen his understanding of human behavior, communication, and person-centered support, strengthening his ability to build meaningful relationships and help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence, confidence, and personal success.
Taleigha Ellis, who serves in Endeavor Living, is pursuing a Medical Assistant certification that will expand her clinical knowledge and healthcare expertise. Her enhanced skills will strengthen the health, wellness, and safety of the individuals Empowering Abilities serves while supporting more coordinated, person-centered care.
Steven Cargill, Enterprise Supervisor, is pursuing his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification to further strengthen Empowering Abilities’ Enterprise operations. His expanded skill set will enhance production and logistics while supporting meaningful employment opportunities that help individuals with disabilities build confidence, develop workplace skills, and achieve greater independence.
“Our employees are our greatest resource,” Ashcraft added. “When we invest in their education, we’re investing directly in the futures of the people we serve. These scholarships strengthen our organization today while helping prepare the next generation of leaders in disability services.”
The Debra “Deb” Lindbom Memorial Scholarship reflects Empowering Abilities’ ongoing commitment to investing in its people, fostering professional excellence, and honoring the remarkable legacy of one of the organization’s cherished participants.
About Empowering Abilities
Empowering Abilities believes in people and what’s possible for them. We work alongside people with disabilities to create opportunities and change lives through day services, employment services, residential services, and community-based supports across the Quad Cities region. In 2026, Empowering Abilities earned another Three-Year Accreditation from CARF International—the highest level of accreditation awarded by CARF—recognizing the organization’s commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and person-centered services.
To learn more, visit www.empoweringabilities.org or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
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