Wendy Bonn

Wendy Bonn has been involved in public service most of her life. In her youth, she volunteered in nursing homes, hospitals and animal shelters. When her youngest son, Tom, was diagnosed with autism in 1995, she became laser focused on data-driven, science-based treatments for individuals on the autism spectrum. She participated in parent groups that supported families seeking to pursue these treatments for their loved ones.

While her son was in school, Wendy participated in workshops educating people about autism across the lifespan. It was during this time that Wendy shifted her focus from treatment to the residential challenges facing individuals on the autism spectrum. This prompted her to embark on a year’s long quest to educate herself about housing models that would meet the unique needs of her son and others.

With the drive of her friend Nancy Boyer, Next Step Berks was founded in 2019. Wendy has combined her background in accounting and finance with her passion to create housing options where people with autism and senior citizens can thrive. This makes her uniquely qualified to serve as treasurer of the Next Step Berks organization. Perhaps her most important qualification is her love for her son, Tom.