Photo: Back Row (Left to Right): Tyler Pietruszka, Scholarship Recipient; Kaela Zapadinsky, Scholarship Recipient; Stephanie Schwartz, Interim Executive Director; Theresa Gilliland, Chairperson, Society’s Assets Board of Directors. Front Row (Left to Right): Joy Rodriguez, Scholarship Recipient; Candice Hennig, Honorary Program Chairperson and Past Scholarship Recipient; Natalie Nelson Markham, Scholarship Recipient
Since its founding in 1974, Society’s Assets has been a beacon of independence and opportunity for people with disabilities across southeastern Wisconsin. What began as a grassroots movement by individuals determined to live fuller lives has grown into a comprehensive nonprofit serving five counties—Kenosha, Racine, Jefferson, Walworth, and Rock—with services ranging from home care and assistive technology to advocacy and independent living skills training.
At the heart of their mission is a belief in the potential of every individual. “We empower individuals with disabilities to live the kind of life they would like to live,” said Theresa Gilliland, Chairperson of the Board. And they do so with a deeply personal connection—over 51% of their staff and board members are individuals with disabilities themselves.
A shining example of this commitment is their “Dollars for Scholars” program, which awards scholarships to college students with disabilities who demonstrate determination and resilience.
With support from a Wispact Foundation grant, Society’s Assets was able to amplify its impact—providing increased scholarship amounts to four remarkable students.
These students, past and present, are more than recipients—they are future leaders. One, born deaf into an all-deaf family, spoke of the daily barriers she overcomes and how the scholarship made her feel “seen for who she really is.” Another, homeschooled due to a disability, started college at 16 and is now pursuing a doctorate in medical research. Others have gone on to compete in the Paralympics, serve on boards, and practice law in Wisconsin.
“Our application process focuses on more than academics,” said Donna Menarek, Director of Marketing and Development. “We look at how students overcome adversity—how they navigate and persist through educational barriers.”
The scholarship fund relies on community support—raffles, silent auctions, donations, and sponsors—to ensure these students get the boost they deserve. “Wispact’s dollars are very well spent,” said Gilliland. “Our students are resilient, talented, and working hard to make a difference.”
Society’s Assets welcomes community members to join their efforts. Whether through attending the June fundraiser, volunteering on a committee, or donating to the scholarship fund, every action helps open doors for future scholars. To learn more or contribute, visit www.societysassets.org.