Region V Becomes Apace

By Gordon HopkinsAt a meeting on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, Jefferson County Commissioners approved a resolution to change the name of Region V Services to Apace. The name change will be complete when all 16 county boards that have interlocal agreements with Region V Services approve the amendments to those agreements. The official launch of the new brand is expected October 1, 2023.First established in 1973, Region V, now Apace, is a public organization that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in southeast Nebraska and currently serves Jefferson, Gage, Thayer, Saline, Johnson, Lancaster, Polk, Butler, Saunders, Seward, Otoe, Fillmore, Pawnee, Nemaha, York and Richardson counties.In a letter, Matt Kasik, CEO of Region V, Services, wrote, “To County Officials: Today, I am thrilled to share exciting news that marks a significant milestone in our organization’s journey. Region V Services is undergoing a transformation, and I am excited to announce our new name: Apace.”Kasik explained the name change in his letter, “Outside our circle, the name `Region V Services’ means very little. Many people don’t know exactly what services we provide, and generally assume it is something different than what they have expected. The other ‘regions’ within Nebraska have experienced this confusion and have already changed their names. This is especially critical for potential families that we may support, as we must be viewed as a modern organization to be successful.”Another reason cited by Kasik for this change is the confusion created by the similarly named organization, Region V Systems. While Apace and Region V Systems are governed by the same board and are situated in the same geographical area, they operate independently, catering to different service needs.Region V Systems is primarily responsible for the development and coordination of behavioral health services and programs. According to Kasik, individuals from the public frequently approach one organization for assistance, only to realize later that they intended to engage with the other.Region V Systems’ name will remain unchanged.Region V Services engaged KidGlov, a marketing and branding firm based in Lincoln, last November to analyze the brand. Surveys were conducted to allow input form stakeholders such as staff, board members and families of those supported by Region V Services.Kasik wrote, “What will be different now that we are Apace? The fundamentals of what we do will remain unchanged. Apace will continue to build on the solid foundation established by Region V Services. Our commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives remains steadfast. Apace is a dependable place where individuals can find support, enrichment, and opportunities for independent living, day programs, and job services. Yet, as the landscape of disability services evolves, so must we. Apace is not just a name change; it’s a testament to our ability to adapt while preserving the essence of who we are.”

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