In this month’s Member Spotlight, we’re catching up with Jason. This amazing self-advocate has played a pivotal role in turning one of Wisconsin’s state disability councils around over the last couple of years. He also has enjoyed helping family members navigate and advocate for what supports they need to be successful. Read more about what Jason has been up to in this month’s Member Spotlight!

We last shined the spotlight on you in 2015. Can you briefly reintroduce yourself and share a little bit of your story?

Jason Endres lives in Eau Claire with his wife Julie and their service dog Pinky Jellybean.  He shares that he’s a self-advocate for himself, but he truly advocates for others that cannot speak for themselves.

What kinds of advocacy projects are you involved with these days? 

Right now, like everyone, Jason is advocating for Medicaid not to be dismantled.  “Losing just one part of Medicaid will harmful for many people in the country,” he says.  

Statewide, Jason has been working with the Independent Living Council of Wisconsin. He explains that when he was appointed to be on the Council, they were a real mess and was in jeopardy of losing money from the federal government for not sending in reports and not having the right number of people on Council. “I helped with turning the council around and made many changes, so when I have to leave the Council in July, I feel I did my part,” he tells us.

Tell me some good news – what’s the most exciting happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination

It’s really hard for Jason to think of exciting news for himself—especially in the political climate we are in right now—but, if he had to choose one, it’s helping his sister find resources for his nephew, Nick. He explains that Nick was having a real hard time at school, so he helped him get tested for Autism.  It turns out that his nephew was diagnosed when he was 13 years old. “So, we are all learning what’s best for Nick,” he says.

What resource can you share with us (website or article)? Why is it useful?

A resource Jason often recommends to people is the Independent Living Council of Wisconsin website. He explains that the Council does do a great deal of collaborating between the eight Independent Living Centers in Wisconsin. They are always looking for new board members, so if you are interested in finding out more details, he suggests going to their website.

What would be your dream vacation?

Jason has two dream vacations.  The first one is going to Australia, and the second is going Hawaii.

***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.