Challenging Misconceptions, Creating Opportunities

At Mammaw Sandy’s Kitchen, our mission is simple but powerful—to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to gain the skills and confidence they need to secure meaningful employment. One of the ways we’re bringing this mission to life is through our partnerships with The Churchill Park School and The Ahrens Work Transition Program.

Each week, students from these programs join us in the bakery to volunteer and gain real-world experience. From helping with production tasks to assisting with packaging, these young adults are learning transferable job skills that will serve them long after graduation. More importantly, they are building confidence and discovering the pride that comes with contributing in meaningful ways.

We know that for many young people with disabilities, the transition from school to adulthood can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to employment. Too often, students graduate without enough skills or opportunities to build a strong résumé. That’s why this partnership is so powerful—it allows us to bridge that gap, giving students real-world experiences that can prepare them for future jobs.

But this work is about more than just skills—it’s also about changing perceptions. Too often, employers hold misconceptions about what individuals with disabilities can do in the workplace. At Mammaw Sandy’s Kitchen, we want to challenge those outdated ideas. Every day, we see firsthand that people with disabilities are capable, determined, and often genuinely excited to come to work.

And really, isn’t that exactly the kind of person every employer wants on their team?

Through these partnerships, we’re not just preparing students for the future—we’re also showing the community what’s possible when individuals are given the right opportunities and support. Already, we’ve seen incredible growth. Students are mastering new skills, learning the importance of teamwork, and experiencing the pride that comes from hard work. This is the foundation of what we call “Pies with a Purpose”—using the bakery as both a workplace and a classroom to build brighter futures. This is how we’ll build a more inclusive workforce and a stronger community, one pie and one opportunity at a time.

We’re just getting started, but these partnerships mark an important step toward fulfilling our mission. With continued community support, we can expand these opportunities and ensure that more individuals with disabilities have the chance to not just participate in the workforce, but to thrive in it.

Contact Alayna today to learn how you or your child can learn skills too- 270-589-8534!