The Encompass Board of Directors volunteers their time and expertise to help provide financial oversight and strategic direction to the organization, ensuring that Encompass continues to serve the community for generations to come. While they are more accustomed to providing vital behind-the-scenes support, we are starting a new series that provides a small glimpse of the motivation and passion of these dedicated individuals.

Five Questions with Jason Cole

What originally drew you to Encompass, and why do you continue to dedicate your time to the organization?
Our oldest daughter was a bit slower to walk than typical, and as first-time parents, we weren’t sure what to do. We asked our pediatrician, and she suggested that Encompass might be able to help. As recent transplants to Snoqualmie from the Kansas City area, it was our introduction to the organization and the incredible work being done to support children and families. It was such a tremendous relief after the in-home evaluation and just a few therapy sessions to have her up and walking.

We’ve also benefited from services for our younger daughter, working with the occupational therapy team with great success. Both experiences were wonderful learning opportunities for us, completely free of any judgment or criticism. It’s difficult to explain in words the relief of seeing that progress and knowing that organizations like Encompass exist to reduce the pressure and concern for families.

I continue to dedicate my time to Encompass for several reasons, but the most critical is the opportunity to support an organization full of dedicated and passionate people. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to hear the stories from the staff and families about their experiences. Our “mission moments” during board meetings are a powerful reminder of why we share our time, energy, and resources. Additionally, as a member of the Finance Committee, I love seeing firsthand the careful financial stewardship of the organization. We’re blessed to have the support of so many individuals and partners to deliver our mission and bridge the funding gaps from insurance and government programs—and that support is managed with the greatest care and efficiency.

Which of the Encompass core programs are you most passionate about, and why?
Having experienced the life-changing impact of both Pediatric Therapy and Occupational Therapy firsthand with our daughters, those programs will always hold a special place in my heart. They provide immediate, tangible relief to parents when they need it most. However, from a broader perspective, I am incredibly passionate about our Early Learning programs. Investing in early childhood development sets a foundation that changes the entire trajectory of a child’s life. Seeing the intentionality, care, and expertise our team pours into these programs makes me incredibly proud to support them.

What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about the work the Encompass Board of Directors does behind the scenes?
People might be surprised by just how deeply involved the Board is in the operational health and long-term sustainability of the organization. It isn’t just about attending meetings or high-level governance; there is an immense amount of rigorous, behind-the-scenes work dedicated to careful financial stewardship. We dive deep into the numbers to ensure every dollar, donation, and grant is maximized to its absolute full potential so that our frontline staff can focus entirely on what they do best: supporting families.

When you aren’t advocating for Encompass, how do you like to spend your time in the Snoqualmie Valley?
My family and I love making the absolute most of the incredible Pacific Northwest outdoors. You can usually find us out hiking and exploring the beautiful local trails, camping, or firing up the smoker in the backyard to cook for family and friends. We also love supporting our amazing local businesses, whether that’s picking up our summer CSA share at Jubilee Farm or enjoying a glass of wine at a local winery. We really feel like this has been an incredible 17-year vacation, and we take none of our opportunities here for granted.

What is your best advice for someone who wants to get involved or support Encompass for the first time?
Don’t hesitate to take that first step, no matter how small it might seem. Whether you are donating your time, your resources, or simply helping to advocate and spread the word about our mission, every single bit of support matters. Encompass is a uniquely welcoming community, and there are so many ways to plug in. If you want to see your generosity make a direct, visible, and deeply meaningful impact on local families right here in our community, this is the place to do it.