HELPING OTHERS, PROMOTING EMPLOYMENT FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM & COGNITIVE DISABILITIES
Serving Hope
We employ and empower young adults with autism and cognitive disabilities, a community facing an 85% unemployment rate. Many lose the majority, if not all, of their critical support services at the age of 22, leaving them isolated, alone, and without opportunities. Our goal is to change that by providing purpose, connection, and meaningful employment.
Introducing Our New Mobile Venue
Thanks to your generosity, we’ve designed and purchased a sensory-friendly food cart – bringing our mission directly to the community! Starting soon, our first Hope Filled employees will begin serving delicious treats in our new mobile venue, gaining valuable job experience at local events, community gatherings, neighborhoods, and churches.
While our ultimate goal is a storefront, this mobile venue is a huge step forward. We’re still seeking donations to create more opportunities for these incredible individuals. Every contribution helps us move closer to a brighter, more inclusive future.
Meet our Founder
Andrea Ratfield
We Don't Know What We Don't Know
Before my child was diagnosed, I had no idea about the depth and complexity of autism. It's been over a decade now, and this journey has been incredibly eye-opening. Through years of navigating this path alongside my child and the hundreds of other amazing kiddos I get to volunteer with, I've learned so much about autism—its challenges, its beauty, and the unique perspectives it brings. It's a journey that has not only reshaped my understanding of autism, but also my outlook on life, teaching me the value of empathy, patience, the importance of embracing differences, and the beauty in innocence. My hope is that you’ll get to experience this, too, with the realization that our awareness expands when we embrace new experiences with love, an open heart, and an accepting mind.
