Finding Purpose Through Passion: Entrepreneurship in the Special Needs Community
Apr 18
3 min read
1
4
0
In a world where the pace is fast and expectations can feel overwhelming, finding purpose is something we all seek. For families in the special needs community, that journey can be filled with unique challenges—and beautiful, unexpected triumphs. One of those triumphs is watching our loved ones, often underestimated by society, rise to find joy, purpose, and even become business owners in their own right.
I want to share a little bit about my son, Jeremiah. Jeremiah has Down syndrome, and he is the heart of our family and the inspiration behind our business, A Little Xtra LLC. Jeremiah truly loves so genuinely. He doesn't hold grudges and forgives so quickly. Everywhere he goes, he is known, he has never met a stranger. He says hi to everyone he meets, and he lights up when others are happy. He is always the first to lend a helping hand. Family means everything to him, and he hates when we aren’t all together.
And then, there are the beads. Jeremiah LOVES beads—Mardi Gras beads, to be exact.
He wears about 20 strings at a time but owns over 100 sets! They’re a part of him, just like his kindness and joy. A few months ago, Jeremiah started making beadable pens and keychains, a way to share his happiness and creativity with others. When someone receives one of his handmade items and smiles, it fills him with pride. That joy is what inspired A Little Xtra LLC.
Jeremiah’s passion has even gained recognition from the National Down Syndrome Society, where he is proudly listed alongside many other entrepreneurs with Down syndrome. These stories, like Jeremiah’s, show the world what we already know—our children are capable of greatness.
The Rise of Entrepreneurs with Down Syndrome
Jeremiah is not alone in his journey. Across the country and the world, individuals with Down syndrome are carving out their own spaces in the business world. From bakeries to fashion lines, these entrepreneurs are proving that talent, passion, and purpose come in many forms.
Here are just a few incredible examples:
John’s Crazy Socks: Co-founded by John Cronin, a young man with Down syndrome, this business has become nationally recognized for its fun, colorful socks and mission to spread happiness.
Grace Place Art: Founded by Grace Key, this business showcases Grace's beautiful artwork, allowing her to share her talent with the world.
Beans & Dreams – Nektario’s Place: Founded by Nektario Tsinonis, a young man with Down syndrome, this Maryland-based coffee shop is dedicated to employing individuals with special needs and creating a welcoming community space
Coletta Collections: This fashion-forward enterprise employs individuals with developmental disabilities, showcasing both creativity and inclusion in every piece.
These businesses, and so many more, are a reminder that purpose isn’t about fitting
into someone else’s mold. It’s about celebrating what makes us unique and using that to uplift others.
A Message to Fellow Moms and Caregivers
To the moms and caregivers reading this, I want you to know: there is so much potential in our children. They may need to do things differently, and their paths may not look traditional, but they are bright, capable, and full of purpose. Sometimes, all they need is someone to believe in them, to give them a chance, and to celebrate their small victories that turn into big ones.
If you’re wondering what your child’s future might look like, take heart. Purpose comes in many forms, and sometimes, it looks like a beaded pen made with joy and love. Sometimes, it looks like a bakery, or a sock company, or a painting that speaks louder than words.
We are witnessing a shift, a movement of inclusivity and empowerment—and I am so proud that Jeremiah gets to be part of it.
Resources & Businesses Mentioned:
National Down Syndrome Society - Entrepreneur Feature (search entrepreneurs)
Let’s continue to support one another, lift our kids, and show the world that with a little extra love, a little extra patience, and a little extra sparkle, we can all do something amazing.
If you like this kind of content, please feel free to share and subscribe.
With Love,
Sandra
