BUSINESS X-CHANGE PRESENTATION – DECEMBER 10, 2025
The Portage County Business Council’s Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year. The December program will be offered in person at the Portage County Business Council office, 5501 Vern Holmes Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482.
There is no cost to attend. Coffee and Danish provided.
Title: "Disability Etiquette 101"
Presented by: Eric Riskus
Independent Living Program Director
Midstate Independent Living Choices
About the Program:
When we encounter someone with a disability, especially a disability we may not be familiar with, some people may struggle with how to present themselves so that respect and autonomy are at the forefront of the interaction. Disability etiquette is more than just the words we use, it’s our body language and the spaces that are created for customers to engage with our businesses, the programs we offer to the community, and how we treat and create opportunities for employees with disabilities that are all positively boosted with proper etiquette.
Key Points of this Business X-Change to Include:
1. Attendees will walk away with an increase in understanding respectful interactions with any person who has a disability and how this can increase sales, networking opportunities, and professional relationships.
2. Attendees will walk away with an increase in understanding that etiquette is more than verbal interaction, and the importance and benefit of investing time and resources to create an accessible environment; from physical structures, to public programs and activities, to accessible documents and marketing practices.
3. Attendees will walk away with an increase in understanding the disadvantages associated with non-compliance with the ADA from litigation, to loss of sales and revenue
About our Presenter:
Eric Riskus is currently the Independent Living Program Director at Midstate Independent Living Choices (MILC). Eric’s dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities began in 2018 when he started as an Independent Living Consultant at MILC. His commitment and leadership experience led to his promotion to Independent Living Program Director in 2019.
As a passionate advocate for disability rights, Eric has been deeply involved in the disability community from a young age, starting with volunteering with the Special Olympics while his older sister participated, and throughout his youth he worked with children with disabilities at summer camps in Wisconsin and Illinois. His work has earned him recognition, including the People of Portage County award in 2019 for his commitment to community service and helping others.
In addition to his role in independent living, Eric serves as a commissioner on the Stevens Point Housing Authority board. His professional background is diverse, including 10 years as a Children’s Pastor and experience as a family entertainer, and public speaker.
Eric is married to his wife of 17 years, and together they have two sons. His life and career reflect a deep commitment to making a difference in his community and advocating for those with disabilities.
What is Business X-Change? Allows business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30am.
Special THANK YOU to Midstate Independent Living Choices for their sponsorship of this program.
Also check out other Nonprofit events in Stevens Point.
