RALEIGH — The man who founded a North Carolina non-profit group that helps disabled military veterans live independently is being honored at the White House.

President Barack Obama on Friday honors recipients of the Citizens Medal, a presidential award for exemplary service to other Americans that's considered the nation's second-highest civilian honor. Among others being honored are the six adults killed trying to defend the students at a Newtown, Conn., elementary school.

Winners include Michael Dorman of Fuquay-Varina, the founder and executive director of Military Missions in Action. The non-profit modifies homes and assists families for veterans with disabilities. The organization has completed more than 100 home modification projects and shipped thousands of care packages to soldiers since 2008.

Also selected from nearly 6,000 nominations include child development expert T. Berry Brazelton.