Feature Friday! Roses for Autism

This weeks Featured Friday is actually an organization I came across while filming for Hungry For Living TV last week.  We were at a farmers market in Greenwich, CT when we met Debbie who works for the organization which is based out of Guilford, CT.  The more she told us about Roses for Autism the more we realized they are about more than just selling flowers.

Roses for Autism was the inspiration of a father of a teen with autism. Like many parents of children with disabilities, Jim Lyman dreamt of a future where his son, Eli, would have a meaningful job and continued opportunities to grow as an individual.
Through his work in agriculture Jim knew that local farmers were struggling to find qualified workers to keep their businesses alive. He had the vision to see a perfect opportunity for an innovative program that would meet the needs of both the autism and agricultural communities.
Roses for Autism not only provides individuals on the autism spectrum the chance to learn the skills necessary to maintain meaningful employment, but also serves as a model that can be replicated nationwide to develop unique opportunities for them as a whole new competitive workforce.
Started in 2009, Roses for Autism is the first business endeavor for Growing Possibilities, a nonprofit social enterprise founded by Ability Beyond Disability that is dedicated to growing independence in the business world for individuals with Autism and other disabilities. RosesforAutism.com

The roses they sell are beautiful, but more beautiful is the story behind them. Adults with Autism hold many talents but only about 12% of them are employed.  Purchasing from Roses for Autism supports development of inclusive work place opportunities for adults with Autism. To purchase roses, donate or to learn more about this wonderful organization please visit http://www.rosesforautism.com/
Also check out their website for information on their upcoming event Autism Rocks!