Meet Jane. When she’s not busy serving on multiple boards or working to provide various supports to people with disabilities, this Grandma loves spending time with her kids and grandkids.  She full-heartedly believes in self-determination and strives to bring choice to all people.  She’s very involved in the effort to make caregiving better in Wisconsin. We’re so fortunate to have her as a member of the Network!  

What's your story?  Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Jane is the Vice-President of Knapp’s Development, which is the management arm of Lori Knapp companies. They provide a variety of supports to self-directed individuals throughout Wisconsin that include fiscal agent supports and the purchasing of authorized products. 

Jane resides in beautiful Prairie du Chien with her husband of 42 years. She has three children and eight grandchildren. She’s on the Governor’s Taskforce for Caregiving, serves on the Wisconsin Workforce Alliance Board, and is a member of the Wisconsin Personal Care Services Association. She also serves as the President for the Futures of Prairie du Chien which is a scholarship program for graduating High School Seniors. 

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

Jane explains that 13 years ago their company began fiscal agent services for those who self-direct. “We quickly saw how self-determination brings autonomy and choice to people’s lives in so many different ways.  Their lives are richer, fuller, and more enjoyable. I strive to bring self-determination initiatives forward for the greater good,” she says.  About five years ago, she and another co-worker brought forth the work comp insurance initiative for those who self-direct which resulted in lower cost premiums and an avenue to ensure that caregivers were covered in case of injury.

She joined the SD Network because it is a great way to connect to like-minded people, share ideas and hear the many success stories.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination?

Jane shares that being on the Governor’s Taskforce for Caregiving, they are developing proposals to attract more caregivers to this workforce so they can provide assistance to those in need of supports. Ever possible avenue is being explored. Caregivers play such a vital role to Wisconsin residents and their role in an individual’s daily life is so important. Self-determination and the value it brings to people is widely recognized by the Governor and Department of Health Services. “This is exciting,” she exclaims!

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

Jane says, “don’t be afraid to ask for help.”  She explains that there is so much information out there and so many services being offered. It can be overwhelming so it is helpful to connect with experts in this field or those who have gone through similar experiences. The Aging and Disability Resource Center in your area is a great way to start. She also suggests that people connect with others like himself/herself for support and ideas. 

What are some of your hobbies?

Living on the Mississippi, Jane enjoys boating and biking where there is beauty all around.  She and her husband spend a lot of fun times with their kids and grandchildren. “They tend to keep us very young and active,” she says. She also enjoys time with her lifelong girlfriends and taking some quiet time to read a good book.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.