Delicious dog treats, infectious smiles and a joyous atmosphere–this is what every customer can expect when visiting PawsAbilties in Olathe, Kansas. This specialty pet store sells handmade dog treats, toys and apparel, but one special ingredient sets it apart–its people. PawsAbilities intentionally employs adults with developmental disabilities, and they are the reason Director of Development Erin Galba refers to the building as the happiest place on earth.
“While there are challenges and hurdles our students may face, there's a lot of joy, fun and happiness,” Galba added.
PawsAbilties' mission is much greater than just a storefront. It is a program designed to teach these adults the skills they need to work a job in their community.
Debbie Horn founded this program in 2013 out of the nonprofit Inclusion Connections. She hoped to give her son, Matt, the opportunity to pursue independence and fulfillment in adulthood. Today, he is a thriving 29-year-old who works at PawsAbilities and holds additional jobs in the community.
“A misperception can be that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities don't have the same hopes and dreams as the rest of us, and it's just not true. All of our students want a future,” Galba said.
Each year, PawsAbilities enrolls around 250 students into its personalized program and continues to grow its waitlist. These adults learn how to make and sell goods, operate a store and retain transferable skills, including customer service and creating quality products. Once they receive their certification, they begin applying for jobs within a list of over 50 employers.
“86% of our students are currently employed in the community,” Galba said. “If you're successful in your job, you walk home at the end of the day feeling proud of yourself. There is a confidence factor.”
Galba says people are often surprised to learn that PawsAbilities is not government-funded. Everything they have is based on donations, grants, yearly fundraisers and revenue from the products they sell.
“The community gets to purchase with a purpose,” she said. “All proceeds go back into this program to create good in the community.”
Thoughts of an adult dancing after receiving their first paycheck, or of two students getting engaged through PawAbiltiies–these are the memories that solidify the desire of Galba and her team to see every adult with developmental disabilities accomplish their dreams.
“We all know what hope does for an individual. There's a lot of hope here. I hope we can continue to grow and serve until there is no longer a waitlist. My dream is to see everybody’s needs fulfilled,” she said.