NAPERVILLE — Megan and Justin Elder have a longtime dream of making the world a sweeter and more inclusive place -- especially for people with disabilities.
That's the driving force behind Moose & Me Bakery, an operation launched out of their Naperville home that aims to hire employees of all abilities. And it's why they hope to soon open a retail storefront and expand their team with help from an online fundraiser.
In less than three weeks, the bakery's Kickstarter campaign raised more than $40,000 of a $50,000 goal.
"It shows that this is something that's wanted and needed in our community," Justin Elder said. "We're well on our way to making this dream become a reality."
Lifelong residents of the Naperville area, the Elders started a ministry about 15 years ago for adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Naperville schools are known for their special education programs, their dad said, but integrated employment is harder to find.
"Our adults with disabilities kind of age out, and there's not a great spot for them," he said.
Eight-year-old Mila, nicknamed "Moose," has grown up baking with her mom, who often makes sweet treats for friends and relatives.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Justin Elder and Megan started brainstorming how to spend their extra time -- and how to transform their hobby into a business endeavor where their girls could one day work.
Moose & Me Bakery kicked off last year but was temporarily placed on hold to finalize licensing details, he said. The operation relaunched March 21 for World Down Syndrome Day.
"As we looked big picture-wise at what we can do in our community, this was a way we could see inclusion within Naperville," Justin Elder said.
The Elders hired two employees, 31-year-old Jake Lukens and 26-year-old Michelle Anderson, both of whom have Down syndrome. They're quick learners who take great pride in their work, and they practice new baking techniques every day, Justin Elder said.
They've also had a chance to share their experiences with friends and family, he said, pointing to a recent birthday party for which the Moose & Me team baked a cake and cupcakes.
And then there's Mila, the company's namesake, who has become an integral part of the operation with her enthusiasm and love of being in the kitchen.
"She likes to watch and be involved as much as she can be," her dad said. "She's always the first to greet people at the door, and (during events), she's there to show off her brand."
The bakery has seen a lot of consistent business so far, Justin Elder said, including orders that aim to raise awareness for Down syndrome and autism.
In addition to making customized cookies, cupcakes and cakes, the team sells its sweets at community events and through partnerships with local shops.
Moose & Me isn't limited to employing individuals with Down syndrome, he said, noting the bakery is "inclusive of everybody" and plans to hire more workers of all abilities as soon as feasibly possible.
The Elders have been eyeing various Naperville storefronts where they could relocate the business.
In addition to moving into and renovating a new space, the Elders said money raised through the Kickstarter would go toward purchasing bakery equipment, such as a large convection oven, a commercial mixer, refrigerators, freezers, prep tables and supplies.
"As we consider spaces, one of the most important aspects that we are looking for is the ability to create space for meaningful interactions between our employees and our customers," the owners said on their online fundraising page. "We're hopeful that a build-out will highlight our employees' baking abilities and give them the ability to interact with everyone that comes into the store."
48 Olympic athletes with Illinois ties
Aisha Praught-Leer, Jamaica: 1,500-meter run
Alyssa Naeher, United States, soccer
Andrea Filler, Italy, soccer
Casey Krueger, United States, soccer
Darryl Sullivan, United States: High jump
David Kendziera, United States: 400-meter hurdles
David Robertson, United States, baseball
DeAnna Price, United States: Hammer
Eddy Alvarez, United States, baseball
Edwin Jackson, United States, baseball
Eliza Stone, United States: Saber
Evita Griskenas, United States, rhythmic gymnastics
Felicia Stancil, United States: BMX racing
Gwen Berry, United States: Hammer
Jewell Loyd, United States, women’s basketball team
Jordan Wilimovsky, United States: 10-kilometer
Jordyn Poulter, United States, volleyball
Josh Zeid, Israel, baseball
Julie Ertz, United States, soccer
Kelsey Card, United States: Discus
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Kent Farrington, United States: Show jumping
Kevin McDowell, United States
Laura Zeng, United States, rhythmic gymnastics
Lauren Doyle, United States, rugby
Maggie Shea, United States, sailing
Michelle Bartsch-Hackley, United States, volleyball
Mitch Glasser, Israel, baseball
Nefeli Papadakis, United States, judo
North Shore Rhythmic Gymnastics team, United States: Rhythmic gymnastics team competition
Pedrya Seymour, Bahamas: 100-meter hurdles
Rajeev Ram, United States: Men’s doubles
Raven Saunders, United States: Shot put
Ryan Murphy, United States: 100- and 200-meter backstroke
Sandi Morris, United States: Pole vault
Thomas Detry, Belgium, golf
Thomas Jaeschke, United States, volleyball
Thomas Pieters, Belgium, golf
Tierna Davidson, United States, soccer
Tim Federowicz, United States, baseball
Tim Nedow, Canada: Shot put
Tomáš Satoranský, Czech Republic, men’s basketball team
Tori Franklin, United States: Triple jump
Tyson Bull, Australia: Horizontal bar
Zach LaVine, United States, men’s basketball team
Zach Ziemek, United States: Decathlon
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