Who Is Independent Horizons?
Independent Horizons provides individualized services for people with disabilities in Nebraska. Our caring community serves you and your loved ones by promoting independence at the highest level. We believe everyone should live, work, and fully experience life, not just exist in it.
Our Compassionate Approach to Disability Care
Our mission is to empower and enrich the lives of people with I/DD.
People-First Support
The people we serve aren’t just our clients. They matter to us. We want to see your loved ones succeed, which is why we encourage self-advocacy and working alongside families to identify long-term goals and develop a care plan tailored to your wants and needs.
Strong Sense of Belonging
We give homes to people who are sometimes excluded from their communities. Individuals receiving care at Independent Horizons can choose which social activities and community outings they want to participate in, so they always feel like active members of their vibrant cities.
Innovation, Professionalism, & Fun
We know disabilities can be heavy, but our staff still makes space for joy and fun. As disability support professionals with decades of experience and former social workers, our cofounders work within the system to find creative solutions to your problems. We know when to be serious and when to be funny.
Meaningful Disability Services
We support a tight-knit group through individualized services that lead to fulfilling lives. We intentionally keep our community small and sustainable because we believe that’s how we can best know and care for our people.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Matt Norman
Co-Owner & Chief Executive Officer
As a cofounder of Independent Horizons, Matt currently serves as CEO. He supports our employees, constantly strives to improve our services, and ensures the safety and rights of the people we care for.
He has three decades of experience working as a caseworker, staff supervisor, and direct care professional for people with disabilities and adolescents/teens with psychological diagnoses and trauma. Matt also serves on various human and legal rights boards.
When he’s not working, Matt spends quality time with his family and dogs, plays disc golf and board games, and attends live music events.
Megan Vernon
Co-Owner & Area President
Megan cofounded Independent Horizons with Matt in 2017. Today, she serves as the agency’s president, handling many of the day-to-day operations, focusing on quality assurance and service efficiency. Like the iconic line from Robots, “See a need, fill a need” is the service standard Megan works toward each day.
Megan has an established and well-rounded career in human services, including Service Coordination, monitoring and evaluating regulatory compliance with the State of Nebraska, and performing rights advocacy work with a national disability organization.
In her spare time, you’ll find Megan traveling the world, spending time with her family and friends, and making new culinary creations with her son.
Our Staff
Sam Vernon (SLP/Day manager), Megan Vernon (President), Matt Norman (CEO), Bryan Pick (staffing coordinator), Amy Kolbet (nurse)
Company
History
With more than 60 years of combined experience in the developmental disability and direct care field, our co-owners both believed there was a better way to care for and support individuals with I/DD.
In 2017, Independent Horizons was born. Since then, we’ve grown to provide specialized care to individuals with I/DD in Lincoln, Omaha, and Nebraska at large. We’ve touched the lives of hundreds of individuals and their families.
Ready to Join Our Team?
By joining Independent Horizons, you’ll become part of a regional mission advocating for the unique healthcare needs of residents in our community. Start your journey towards a rewarding career path in direct care today!
Connect with Independent Horizons
Talk with our care team or schedule a visit with us today! We look forward to helping you and your family.