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Natural Awakenings Westchester / Putnam / Dutchess New York

Micro-Business Training in Pleasantville for Adults with Autism : Through hands-on training, participants can learn skills like order processing, packaging, marketing, distribution and customer relations.

The Extended Family (TEF), a two-year-old nonprofit organization that provides meaningful engagement for adults with autism and other developmental disabilities, has expanded its micro-business skills training course to a second location. In addition to The Freight House, in Mahopac, where TEF has been operating, it now offers the course at Select Human Services, in Pleasantville.

The course curriculum is designed to teach the core aspects of operating a micro-business. Through hands-on training, participants can learn skills like order processing, packaging, marketing, distribution and customer relations. Products launched to date through TEF include direct-trade Guatemalan coffee, organic candy, dried bean soups, artisan mugs and gifts to celebrate the important moments in life. Current offerings include Spring Fling Gift Boxes for Mother’s and Father’s Days, teacher gifts and graduation.

“The Extended Family is reimagining the way adults with autism and other developmental disabilities lead productive lives, by creating micro-businesses where all individuals can thrive and be successful within the right environment,” says Co-Founder and Executive Director Laurie Cameron. “We serve exceptional adults who rely on qualified support by providing a sanctuary for skill training, community, integration, camaraderie and a sense of belonging. Interns actively engage in ideation, decision-making and problem solving. Our fundamental belief is that when given a chance, exceptional individuals make the world a better place.”  

Locations: The Freight House Cafe, 609 US-6, Mahopac, NY; Select Human Services, 17-19 Marble Ave., Pleasantville, NY. For more info, call 917.734.3464, email [email protected] or visit TheExtendedFamily.solutions.