My Story:

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals ​around mental health. Whether through family, friends, or personal ​experiences, I developed a deep understanding and empathy for those ​navigating a world that often feels unaccommodating and overwhelming. ​My initial passion was to create an inclusive and supportive environment for ​foster youth to gain confidence and work experience. This would soon ​change and become the driving force behind Beyond the Spectrum.

My Reason Why:

The idea for Beyond the Spectrum was born from both a desire and ​personal. Our son was diagnosed with autism, and while programs focus ​on early intervention for children, there are few resources available for ​adults who need support in gaining employment skills and achieving ​independence across the disability community.

Inspired by parents across the nation whose young adults were unable to ​obtain employment, started their own entrepreneur journey to create a ​opportunity.

I cannot forget to mention the Delancey Street Foundation who started a ​program to re-integrate ex-convicts into society by providing them ​support and job skills training expanding to different industries. Click ​here to read their amazing story.

I also gained inspiration from Hooked on Pickin’s YouTube channel who ​began the retail journey in the comforts of their home and has since ​grown.

With this, I saw a need for a program that could provide real-world job ​training and support for individuals with disabilities. A way to combine ​the two. An idea was born.

My Background

Although I do not have formal business experience, my commitment to ​helping others is unwavering. This passion fuels my dedication to Beyond the ​Spectrum. During my childhood, I assisted my parents in running their ​business. I was even allowed to handle transactions! This was a stepping ​stone for customer service and work experience. While working full-time, I ​created and managed my sole proprietorship, which I learned independently. ​Through these times in my life, I gained skills that are crucial to running a ​successful business.

I enrolled into Entrepreneurship certification course to gather a better ​understanding. I am consistently seeking opportunities to learn and grow, ​which will enable me to lead Beyond the Spectrum.

business

Although I am starting this business solo, I hope to gain enough momentum ​to integrate interns to assist with the business. The ultimate goal is to ​provide work experience, work structure and responsibilities. I have deve​loped a business plan fo​r Beyond the Spectrum’s operations.

Our vision

Our vision at Beyond the Spectrum is to be leaders in promoting acceptance ​of individuals on the autism spectrum and other disabilities who are ​embraced for their unique abilities and talents, and have equal opportunities ​to succeed in the workforce and beyond. We envision a society where neuro-​diversity is celebrated, inclusion is the norm, and building a more inclusive ​and compassionate world for all.

Ou​r mission

Our mission is to bridge the gap between ability and opportunity by ​empowering individuals on the autism spectrum to achieve their full ​potential while fostering an inclusive environment and community ​engagement.

Su​pport system

I have the support of mentors and advisors who have extensive ​experience in business. Their guidance will be invaluable as I grow ​Beyond the Spectrum. I also have members within the community who ​will provide valuable feedback with the implementation of Beyond the ​Spectrum.

Store Operations

Job Training

Community

Se​nsory space

Our sensory space would feature calming music, soft toned lights, and ​comfortable seating. This area will feature items available in our store. This ​area can be used for individuals who need space to decompress due to ​overstimulation.

Co​mmunity Room

Our community room will be used to host additional job training skills that ​are not available in the retail environment. We would also like to have ​presentation on how employers can integrate individuals with disabilities ​into their workforce. Additionally, we would like to use the community space ​for:

• Young Adults with Disabilities support groups
  
• Social events such as board game nights, bingo nights, etc.
• Meeting with outside organizations to collaborate on additional services ​which can be provided to our interns.
  

Di​rect Support Professionals

We would like to employ direct support professionals to assist our interns in ​our retail workplace. ​

In​itial Phase

The internship program will be piloted on a small scale. During this period, ​we will work with our interns and collaborate on feedback received. We hope ​to create a successful, long-lasting program.

Areas we would like to focus on:

• Transition to work setting: Clock in/Clock out, job training, teamwork,
  
• Career Path: education, trade, or direct workforce pathways and ​assistance resources.
• Support: Support groups, social events, and community participation ​with ou​tside organizations.
  

Family Navigator

We want to employ a family navigator who can work with families and ​provide support and resources that the family needs. Our family navigator ​can participate in community resource planning meetings to ensure our ​famili​es’ voices are heard.