Access Elevator, Inc. was recently highlighted in the 2023 Catholic Herald Business Guide, sharing the remarkable story of how one act of kindness grew into a mission of accessibility for thousands of families across Wisconsin and Illinois.
A Humble Beginning
The company’s founder, Jon Tevz, never set out to start a business serving individuals with disabilities. In fact, he began his career mowing lawns and doing landscaping. As CEO, Frank Wasilewski explained in the article, Tevz approached a potential new client whose yard had grown over. The man, however, was disabled and living on a fixed income. Instead of walking away, Tevz struck a deal: if the man could pay for gas, he would mow his lawn.
For more than a year, Tevz kept up the lawn care. One day, when the man wanted to step outside, he admitted he hadn’t left his home in over three years due to accessibility barriers. Tevz responded by building him a ramp — a simple project that sparked a life-changing business.
Growing a Company Around a Mission
From that first ramp, Tevz quickly realized the widespread need for accessible home solutions. He expanded into door widening, bathroom modifications, and mobility aids, eventually becoming licensed in elevators. By 1994, Access Elevator, Inc. was officially founded.
Today, Access Elevator operates across Illinois and Wisconsin, offering a full range of accessibility solutions:
Over the past three decades, the company has helped more than 30,000 individuals and businesses achieve greater independence.
More Than Installations — True Accessibility Planning
As Wasilewski explained in the Catholic Herald feature, Access Elevator doesn’t simply install products — they create long-term solutions tailored to each person’s unique needs. From rebuilding staircases and adding handrails to fully remodeling kitchens or laundry rooms, their expertise as ADA general contractors allows them to make entire homes accessible.
The company also works closely with families, veterans, agencies, and social workers to identify financial assistance programs and grants, helping to offset costs that Medicare and insurance often don’t cover.
Independence, Safety, and Community
Access Elevator’s mission has always been about more than just ramps and lifts. It’s about independence, safety, and dignity. As Wasilewski shared:
“Every home and every disability are unique. We will go through your daily life and really see what you need … We want to cater to what our clients’ specific needs are and work within your budget to accommodate you.”
Learn More
Access Elevator continues to honor the legacy of that very first ramp — providing solutions that remove barriers and advance independence.
📞 Call 414-727-2525 or Get a Quote to learn more and find a location near you.
Read the full article in the Catholic Herald Business Guide: Catholic Herald – Access Elevator Feature