No state provides as much support for children on the autism spectrum as New Jersey. Few would dispute that.
Here’s another universal truth: New Jersey, like every other state, struggles to provide services for the neurodiverse community after those on the spectrum turn 21.
Kelly Castro of Oradell is working to change that.
In March, she opened Just a Taste of New Jersey in Fair Lawn. It’s her second business designed to provide work opportunities and training to adults with autism.
The bakery, which sells products created from her first business, Carson’s Cookie Dough, not only provides job opportunities for adult students with autism, it also features goods and products from other local businesses that employ people with disabilities.
“Our mission is to support differently-abled adults while providing a quality, convenient and delicious product,” Castro said on the store’s web site.
“We create inclusive, engaging and fulfilling employment opportunities for individuals like our son, who has autism. These members of our community deserve a chance to showcase their skills and fulfill their potential.”
Castro said the motivation began shortly after her son, Carson, was diagnosed as being on the spectrum.
“Our story began with a dream inspired by our autistic son, Carson, and our deep desire to create meaningful employment opportunities for the differently-abled community,” she wrote.
“What started as Carson’s Cookie Dough, a small venture to sell cookie dough locally, quickly blossomed into a nationwide success with baked cookies shipped across the country. Fueled by the love and support of our customers, we took the next step: opening our very own bakery.
“At Just a Taste of New Jersey, we proudly serve our signature cookies alongside delicious baked goods from beloved local bakeries. But we’re more than just a bakery — we’re a community hub showcasing products crafted by local companies, many of which share our mission of employing and empowering the differently-abled.”
The good news: She’s not going at it alone.
Fair Lawn Main Street Inc. and the Fair Lawn Chamber of Commerce are behind her efforts.
Fair Lawn Main Street Inc. Executive Director Ryan Greff said the business adds to a main street that has been evolving.
“Carson’s Cookie Dough’s choice to set up shop on Broadway is the latest example of the ongoing transformation of Broadway into a vibrant business district,” Greff said.
“New and exciting businesses continue to select Fair Lawn as a destination because they know how supportive our community is for entrepreneurs with creative and innovative ideas.”
