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2008 Jayn Wittenmyer Distinguished Achievement Award

The award recognizes someone who goes “above and beyone expectations” by providing enthusiasm, vision, broad knowledge, compassion, and leadership in the field. This results-oriented person is able to form or direct effective networks to better the lives of adults with developmental disabilities. The Board is pleased to present the 2008 Jayn Wittenmyer Distinguished Achievement Award to:

Jon Rost

Jon Rost has had a significant impact on the community integration of people with developmental disabilities through his individual advocacy efforts and his inspirational leadership as President of HearthStone of Wisconsin.  Jon has been President since 1995 when he and his wife, Carol, founded HearthStone - a self-help and advocacy organization in Sheboygan County that helps developmentally disabled adults move towards independence.  Under his leadership, the organization has grown to become an increasingly effective and widely recognized grassroots advocacy organization with over 200 members.

Jon has been instrumental in persuading the Sheboygan County Board to budget additional money since 2000, which reduced the DD waiting list by nearly 50%.  He was involved in the late-night advocacy effort to convince the Joint Finance Committee to fund the elimination of the 13,000 person Department of Vocational Rehabilitation waiting list in 2006.  He has forged a spirit of cooperative effort between the County Health & Human Services department, the County Board of Supervisors, state legislators, DVR and Wisconsin’s community of people with disabilities and their advocates. 

Jon has also worked to establish and fund a respite program.  He partnered with a local college to include people with developmental disabilities in theatrical productions and has provided various social opportunities for them, as well.

Jon’s personal involvement goes beyond HearthStone to include his commitment to many other organizations such as:  Workbound, Rehabilitation Center of Sheboygan, the Wisconsin Initiative & Sustainable Housing, and several others.

Jon’s primary advocacy tool is education.  His approach is one of gentle yet powerful persuasion.  His ability to discuss developmental disability issues with knowledge, compassion, and conviction has earned him the respect of disabled individuals, their families, legislators, government officials and health care professionals.

Most importantly is Jon’s commitment to nurturing, encouraging and advocating for his son, who has autism and is successfully employed full time and owns his own home.

Congratulations Jon on your award. Your enthusiasm, tenacity and commitment to community inclusion of people with developmental disabilities have earned you the respect of those who know you.