As director of Milwaukee-based agency endowment fund Wispact Foundation, Eric DeGroot has directed funds to local groups such as Special Olympics, the Milwaukee Ballet for sensory-friendly performances, and Independence First for an accessible E-gaming program.
DeGroot serves on the board of Independence First and has helped the organization offer its Youth Leadership Summit, which provides education, peer support and accessible recreation activities for high school students with disabilities. He helped secure a grant for ASL interpretation for attendees to access the conference, according to Myra Sanchick, director of marketing and strategic partnerships at Independence First.
“Eric’s commitment to keep people with disabilities independent, active, and included fully in our community makes a true impact,” said Wendy Huot, chief financial officer at Independence First. “His energy and passion to fund and support so many inclusive programs in Milwaukee has meant people with disabilities can participate in a wide range of activities.”
DeGroot has also served on the board of Easter Seals, as a member of the Planned Lifetime Assistance Network, The National PLAN Alliance, and was a founding member of the Alliance of Pooled Trusts and a former board member of the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin.
