Baked Goods By Dominic

A Sweet Journey of Inclusion and Inspiration

#paythecookiesforward

In the heart of Lansing, Michigan, a small cottage food business is making a big impact, not just with its delectable treats but also by breaking barriers and challenging perceptions. Baked Goods By Dominic, founded in November 2020, is not your typical bakery. What sets it apart is the passionate dedication of its founder, a mother determined to showcase the abilities of her 19-year-old son, Dominic, who lives with Intellectual Disability, Autism, Epilepsy, ADHD, and Anxiety Disorder.

The story begins in Maryland, where the founder, whose identity is carefully guarded by the company, spent her early years. However, life took an unexpected turn when her husband received a job offer in Lansing in December 2001. With one child in tow, a five-year-old daughter, the family embraced the move. Little did they know that this change would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey.

As her daughter grew, the founder became deeply involved in the local community, joining the church and actively participating in her daughter’s school. Just when she contemplated reentering the workforce, a surprising pregnancy at the age of 40 altered her course. Dominic, facing unique challenges as he grew older, became the inspiration for a new path— becoming a disability advocate.

Fast forward to 2020, amidst the chaos of a global pandemic, Baked Goods By Dominic emerged. The cottage food business, operating from their home kitchen, bakes a diverse array of 26 homemade treats. What makes this venture truly exceptional is that it is led by someone with a disability, challenging stereotypes and societal norms.

Presuming Competence: A Guiding Principle

One of the defining characteristics of Baked Goods By Dominic is the emphasis on presuming competence when interacting with individuals with disabilities. The founder shares her wisdom, urging everyone to see the person first, not the disability. It’s a mantra that echoes not only through the baked goods but resonates in the mission of the business itself.

The founder emphasizes that she regularly receives private messages from individuals expressing how Dominic’s business inspires parents and caregivers of those with disabilities. In a world often fixated on challenges, Baked Goods By Dominic serves as a beacon of hope, proving that everyone deserves an opportunity to showcase their skills and contribute to society.

A Recipe For Success: Baking Inclusivity

Operating in the Lansing area, Baked Goods By Dominic stands as a unique entity. As far as the founder is aware, there are no other businesses in the region that empower individuals with disabilities to run a baking enterprise. The timing of the launch, amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic, added a layer of positivity to the community. People were hungry for good news, and Dominic’s story provided just that.

On the business’s Facebook page, the founder candidly shares Dominic’s triumphs and struggles. This transparency creates a sense of connection with the customers, who not only savor the delightful treats but also engage with the journey of inclusion and determination. The heartfelt private messages received by the founder reinforce the impact of their mission.

Looking Ahead: Dreams Beyond Baked Goods

Beyond the delectable cookies, cakes, and brownies, Baked Goods By Dominic has a grand vision for the future. The long-term goal is to establish a “brick-and-mortar” establishment that exclusively employs individuals with disabilities. Friends of the family are already expressing their desire to work with Dominic, highlighting the potential impact of such a venture.

The company aimed to reach a milestone of 500 orders before the end of 2023. A Loyalty Program is also in place, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the supportive community. After a customer places five orders, Baked Goods By Dominic donates a dozen of their coveted Chocolate Chip Supreme cookies to a business or organization of the customer’s choice.

Connecting with Baked Goods By Dominic

For those eager to savor these unique and inspiring treats, reaching out to Baked Goods By Dominic is easy. The business can be contacted via email at BakedGoodsByDominic@mail. com. Further updates, stories, and a delightful showcase of their baked goods can be found on their Facebook page: Baked Goods By Dominic. While they may not have a dedicated website yet, their Facebook page serves as a vibrant hub for connecting with the community and sharing in the journey of Baked Goods By Dominic.

A Sweet Legacy of Inclusivity

Baked Goods By Dominic is not just a bakery; it’s a testament to the potential that lies within every individual, regardless of the challenges they face. In a world that often underestimates the abilities of those with disabilities, this Michigan-based cottage food business is crafting a legacy of inclusivity, one delicious treat at a time.

Visit Dominic at https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=100063913788968 https://www.wilx.com/ video/2023/05/01/catching-up-withbaked-goods-with-dominic/