Jessica Chenoweth 
In case you didn’t know, April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. During this month we celebrate and learn more about all the individuals that are on the spectrum. This is a cause very close to my heart as my 5-year-old son has Autism Spectrum Disorder. One of the things we have learned during this journey is that as he grows into adulthood getting a job might be difficult. Some studies show that up to 85% of adults with autism are unemployed. Many individuals on the spectrum require special modifications and training that many companies aren’t prepared or willing to do.
Knowing all this, some individuals with autism and their caregivers are taking matters into their own hands. They are creating businesses that can help not only the person in their life, but also other adults with disabilities. Thanks to social media a lot of these amazing companies have gone viral and grown significantly. Plus, they are a great way to support the autism community.
Blissful Seeds
Not only is this an amazing non-profit company that helps support individuals with autism, it’s also San Diego based! This small store that serves as a vital platform for creators on the spectrum to showcase their abilities without limitations imposed by their disabilities. They sell a variety of items created by these artists including soap, candles, resin art and more!
https://www.blissfulseeds.org/
Summer Shirt Project
Jackie and her husband Ben knew about the low employment rates for individuals with autism and worried about the future for their daughter Jordyn. So one summer they started selling shirts out of their garage to help her learn some real-life job skills. What started as a small summer job turned into a thriving business thanks to videos they posted on Facebook going viral and sales going through the roof! Plus, seeing Jordyn’s progress on videos they post is incredible.
Beauty By Jenna
This is a newer business that was founded six months after Jenna graduated from beauty school. She had gone through hundreds of hours of training, but there were no job opportunities that suited her special needs. Anna, Jenna’s sister-in-law, has been by her side every step of the way, overseeing logistics and using her passion for philanthropy to guide their every step. At the moment, they only sell balms, but they are all incredible. Plus, with every purchase Jenna creates a thank you card just for you!
https://shopbeautybyjenna.com/
Popcorn for the People
Try not to get hungry when looking through Popcorn for the People’s website! This company was founded by Samuel and his parents in 2014 after he was unable to find adequate work that would accommodate his special needs. The organization now employs several individuals on the spectrum making their artisan popcorn out of New Jersey. French toast popcorn anyone?
https://www.popcornforthepeople.com/
Smile Biscotti
Matt graduated from high school in 2013 and with the help of his parents start SMILE – Supporting My Independent Living Enterprise, with the goal of helping him and others impacted by Autism, make advancements in life skills development, social connections and create pathways toward greater independence. Just one look through their available flavors and you’ll be hitting “show now”!
