Hosted/Facilitated by:

Heather Evans

Wise, Training & Technical Assistance Manager

Heather Evans is a dedicated advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), with over 20 years of experience working in these communities. Firmly rooted in the belief in human dignity and agency, Heather is passionate about empowering disabled individuals to lead lives of their choice and helping direct service practitioners embrace person-centered, strengths-based approaches that enhance quality of life for all.

Heather’s expertise spans several critical domains. As a Cornell Certified Social Security Benefits Planner, she helps individuals navigate the complexities of governmental systems. Her role as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor has equipped countless professionals to address mental health challenges with confidence and compassion. Additionally, Heather excels as a Person-Centered Plan Facilitator and Systematic Instruction Trainer, developing frameworks that prioritize individual goals while enabling greater independence.



Having begun her career as an employment consultant, Heather has held impactful roles in supervision, program development and management, and as an Organizational Development Director. She currently serves as President of the PNW Partners for Work Rotary Club (2024–2026), where she continues to champion meaningful opportunities for Rotarians and disabled community members. Through her work, Heather embodies a holistic commitment to fostering inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for all.

Dan Rutten

Wise, Senior Training & Technical Assistance Manager

Dan has been dedicated to the field of Supported Employment since 2004, bringing over two decades of experience in empowering individuals through meaningful work. Throughout his career, he has served in various roles including Job Coach, Employment Consultant, and Program Manager, consistently advocating for inclusive employment practices. Since 2021, Dan has also served as a Certified Benefits Planner with the BenefitU program.

Dan is a graduate of the University of Washington and furthered his expertise by becoming a Certified Work Incentive Liaison and Benefits Planer through Cornell University. His professional passions lie in benefits planning, job coaching and fading supports, environmental adaptations, Person Centered Planning, and leveraging goal setting to drive impactful services. He also brings a strategic lens to program management, always seeking ways to improve systems and outcomes.

Dan is a firm believer in the philosophy that knowledge is meant to be shared. He thrives in collaborative environments and enjoys working alongside others to create innovative solutions and support networks.