If you live in Lake Forest and have ever treated your pup to a bag of Wigglewow’s gourmet dog treats, chances are you’ve met Erika Jackson at your doorstep. With her bright smile and caring nature, Erika has become a beloved delivery specialist for Wigglewow, a nonprofit that employs adults with special needs to handcraft and deliver dog treats across Louisville.

For the past five years, Erika has made more than 400 deliveries to Lake Forest residents—amounting to over $7,000 in treats. Her work is about more than just bringing snacks for furry friends; it’s about creating connections. Each delivery allows her to spread kindness, and many neighbors look forward to seeing Erika just as much as their dogs do.

Wigglewow itself is a remarkable organization, founded by Mark Pfeiffer six years ago with just two employees. Today, it has grown to employ more than 30 adults with special needs. Erika takes pride in being part of that mission. While her “full-time” job is at the Middletown Goodwill, her work with Wigglewow gives her a chance to contribute directly to her own neighborhood and to shine in a role that suits her perfectly.

Erika’s story of resilience and achievement began long before her time with Wigglewow. Growing up in Illinois, she attended Hinsdale South High School, where she competed on the JV swim team and participated in Special Olympics basketball, gymnastics, and swimming. Her determination and positive spirit inspired those around her—so much so that in 2008, she was honored as the March of Dimes Inspirational Athlete of the Year. At the awards banquet in Chicago’s Conrad Hilton Hotel, Erika was celebrated on live television, with Hall of Fame baseball legends Andre Dawson and Jim Thome recognizing her achievements in their speeches.

Seven years ago, Erika and her parents, Margaret and David, moved to Lake Forest to be closer to her two siblings and her five nephews. Surrounded by family, Erika has continued to grow, thrive, and find joy in her community. Her sister Barbara, a special education teacher in Lexington, and her brother Alan, a Louisville doctor, share the family’s passion for education and service. Her parents, both retired teachers, have always modeled compassion and perseverance—values Erika now carries with her in every part of her life.

For Erika, Wigglewow is more than just a job. It’s a chance to be part of something meaningful, to support a mission she believes in, and to make her own mark in Lake Forest. Whether she’s delivering treats, working hard at Goodwill, or spending time with her family, Erika continues to show that she is a source of joy, inspiration, and kindness to all who know her.

Order Wigglewow Treats
If you’d like to support Wigglewow—and Erika—you can place an order for their handmade dog treats by contacting Erika through her dad, David, at 630-674-2800 or emailing Erika.Wigglewow@gmail.com.

To learn more about Wigglewow’s mission, visit wigglewow.com.