Our Personal Story
Our Story
Hello, my name is Jon. My journey began in a small Midwest town as the youngest of four children. I was raised by incredibly resilient parents—my mother, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shortly after my birth, and my father, who suffered a traumatic brain injury just three days before I was born. Growing up with disabled parents taught me compassion, perseverance, and the true meaning of caregiving from an early age.
Those experiences inspired me to pursue a degree in Nursing, where I cared for vulnerable children at Children’s Hospital. Driven by a desire to continue serving others on a greater scale, I enlisted in the U.S. Army. As an Army medic, I received specialized trauma training in Miami before deploying to Iraq. In 2008, I returned home to begin treatment for PTSD and multiple sclerosis while adjusting to civilian life and preparing for a new chapter.
During that season, I reconnected with my high school sweetheart, Katie who became my wife and steadfast partner through every challenge and triumph. Together, we built a family grounded in faith, love, and resilience. We were blessed with our son, Eric and at the age of three, he was diagnosed with Autism. From that moment forward, my wife and I dedicated ourselves to becoming his strongest advocates—navigating therapies, special education, and the daily realities of life on the spectrum. Through every obstacle and every victory, we have remained united as a family.
Today, despite my own disabilities, I continue to live with faith, purpose, and perseverance. Alongside my wife, Katie, I proudly serve as a protector for my family, an advocate for children with Autism, and a voice for families facing similar journeys. Through every challenge, Katie has also faithfully served as my caregiver—offering unwavering strength, compassion, and support during some of the most difficult moments of my life. Her dedication, sacrifice, and unconditional love have been a constant source of hope and stability for our family. Together, our story is one of resilience through adversity, unwavering faith, and the belief that life’s greatest challenges can become a calling to serve and uplift others.
Our Mission
The mission of our organization is to empower disabled veterans and children on the autism spectrum through compassionate support, advocacy, and access to essential resources, therapies, scholarships, and community programs. We are dedicated to fostering healing, independence, opportunity, and inclusion while improving the quality of life for the families we serve with dignity, hope, and respect.
Our Vision
Our vision is to build a future where disabled veterans and children on the autism spectrum are fully empowered to thrive, free from barriers to care and opportunity. We strive to create a compassionate and inclusive community that honors the sacrifices of our heroes, nurtures the unique potential of every child, and inspires hope, healing, and lifelong success.
Our Goals
ECW Foundation Inc.
- Raise sustainable funding to provide scholarships for therapies, treatments, educational programs, and essential support services.
- Organize annual fundraising events, community campaigns, and sponsorship opportunities to increase financial support and community engagement.
- Secure grants and corporate partnerships that align with the organization’s mission and long-term vision.
- Develop recurring donor and membership programs to ensure long-term financial stability and growth.
- Expand fundraising efforts through online campaigns, social media outreach, and community partnerships to reach a broader audience.
- Maintain transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of all donated funds to build trust and confidence within the community.
Get Involved
- Volunteer Your Time
Assist with community events, fundraising activities, family outreach programs, mentorship opportunities, and administrative support. - Make a Donation
Support scholarships, therapies, educational resources, and programs for disabled veterans and children on the autism spectrum through one-time or recurring donations. - Become a Community Partner
Businesses, healthcare providers, schools, and organizations can partner through sponsorships, services, or collaborative programs. - Participate in Fundraising Events
Join charity walks, awareness campaigns, benefit dinners, raffles, and community events that help raise funds and awareness. - Sponsor a Family or Program
Help directly fund therapy sessions, adaptive equipment, educational support, or family assistance programs. - Advocate and Spread Awareness
Share the mission through social media, community outreach, and local events to help educate others and grow support. - Serve on a Committee or
contribute professional expertise, and guidance to help strengthen the organization’s mission and long-term growth. - Donate Goods or Services
Provide professional services, supplies, venue space, therapy resources, or event support to help reduce operational costs. - Become a Mentor or Supporter
Offer encouragement and support to veterans, parents, and families navigating challenges related to disabilities and autism.