Mike Kraus recognized for devotion to helping veterans and first responders facing PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and other challenges
Gladstone, Mo.—VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo presented Mike Kraus with the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year award during the Celebration of Independents awards dinner on March 8.
This honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions and made a significant difference in their community, including Kraus’s commitment to service and his work with veterans and first responders.
While serving as COO of Mad Hatter Auto Repair and Westgate High-Tech Auto Care in Omaha, Neb., he has also devoted over 600 hours in the past year to JAVELAN, a nonprofit organization that provides service dogs to veterans and first responders facing PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other challenges.
Under his leadership, JAVELAN has expanded its reach, merged with the First Responders Foundation, and significantly increased both awareness and funding, ensuring that more individuals receive the support they need.
From growing JAVELAN’s program to training over 130 service dog-handler teams to receiving national recognition at the First Responders Bowl, his advocacy has strengthened communities across East Central Nebraska and Western Iowa.
“Mike Kraus is the kind of leader we need more of in our communities,” said Travis Troy, VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo Co-Chair. “The impact he’s made — both in the automotive industry and through his nonprofit work — embodies the very spirit of this award. We are honored to recognize him as the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year.”
The VISION Humanitarian Award is open to all VISION attendees, including exhibitors, and celebrates those who embody the spirit of humanitarianism by dedicating their time and efforts to improving the lives of others.
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