April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to celebrate neurodiversity and the contributions of individuals with autism to society. One New Jersey company, Beloved Bath, is leading the charge by not only spreading awareness but actively empowering and employing people with autism.
Beloved Bath’s mission is centered on creating products with a purpose. The company offers a range of high-quality candles, lotions, and soaps that are thoughtfully crafted to make a difference. These products are manufactured, labeled, packaged, and shipped entirely by people with autism, providing meaningful employment opportunities to individuals who often face significant barriers in the job market.
“There is a job for everyone, and there’s not been one person that’s come to work and we’ve said, ‘Sorry, this isn’t a good fit,'” said Pat Miller, co-owner of Beloved Bath.
Currently, the company operates out of Maplewood, New Jersey, where a team of 16 individuals works tirelessly to ensure that every product meets the highest standards. Many of these employees joined Beloved Bath after spending years searching for work without success.
For employees like 29-year-old Paul Silliere, the opportunity to work has been life-changing. “We know we can thrive anywhere and do anything we put our mind to. It’s that when it comes to employment and trying to find work, there’s not a lot of opportunities available,” Silliere explained.
Unfortunately, the statistics paint a grim picture. People with autism face an unemployment rate of over 85%, making it one of the most underemployed groups in the workforce. This reality underscores the importance of initiatives like Beloved Bath, which focus on unlocking the potential of individuals with autism by offering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Families of those with autism often emphasize that, with a few accommodations and the right support, these individuals can be loyal and hardworking employees. Silliere shared his personal experience: “When I do something repetitively, I get excited about it. It makes me feel good inside about myself.”
Beloved Bath is not just a workplace; it’s also deeply personal for its founders. Co-owners Pat Miller and Pam Kattouf both have sons in their early 20s who have autism. Their sons work alongside them at the company, further reinforcing its mission. “[My son’s] very proud because he knows he’s contributing and doing something that’s important, and that people give him kudos for,” Kattouf shared.
In addition to providing employment, Beloved Bath is committed to giving back to the community. A portion of every sale is donated to a charitable foundation that supports education and social activities for people with developmental disabilities.
The impact of Beloved Bath goes beyond the products they sell; it’s about fostering a sense of purpose and pride in their employees. For individuals like Silliere, the experience has been transformative. “This has given me more than anything I could have dreamed of. It’s exceeded all my expectations,” he remarked.
By employing people with autism and demonstrating the value they bring to the workplace, Beloved Bath is creating a ripple effect of acceptance and inclusion. Their story serves as an inspiring reminder that, with understanding and opportunity, everyone has the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
Discover Expert Support with Silver Swing
At Silver Swing, we take pride in offering personalized care that fosters meaningful growth for individuals on the autism spectrum. Our skilled ABA therapists in New Jersey provide tailored interventions designed to build essential life skills and empower every client. Let us help you navigate your journey with compassionate, evidence-based support. Contact us today to learn how we can make a difference in your life!
