Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Graham.
Hi Lisa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I started Brewhaus Dog Bones in 2014 in honor of my daughter, Natalie, who was born prematurely with a rare genetic abnormality resulting in intellectual and physical disability. In our public school system, students with disabilities age out at age 21, often with few prospects for meaningful employment. These are individuals who want many of the same things you and I want: community involvement, personal success, joy and growth. They want to feel included and needed by society. I wanted to change the perception that disabled individuals should be kept on the periphery. Brewhaus is a space and program where these young adults can not only find employment but find community, too. I wanted to provide a platform for personal development, empowerment and community engagement that demonstrates everyone has value and can make a unique contribution.
Natalie is employed by the Bakery, along with 16 other individuals who previously struggled to find stable employment. These bakers offer nutrient dense, small batch dog treats made with craft beer grains at a fair price. The program is built to be a financially sustainable social enterprise education and business model. The bakery space has grown into a collaborative area where we can foster a creative, inclusive environment with additional opportunities for skill development and growth. Individuals with disabilities develop vocational skills, and have fun, meaningful project-based learning and work opportunities.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My biggest obstacle is simply time. Over the past few years, I’ve had so many wonderful helpers and continue to rely on their support, but anyone who starts a nonprofit understands that you have to wear many hats. Thankfully community interest and support have been abundant from the start and I can hardly keep up with orders for our bags of dog bones! We’ll be moving bakery spaces in the spring, from Madeira to Mt. Washington, and we’ll own our new space. I’m hopeful this will lead to a more organized and focused space, where we can put all of our time and energy into helping our bakers become exactly who they’re led to be.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
In the world of non-profits and small businesses, there’s always an army of support behind the scenes. The teachers in our school programs are incredible and go out of their way and beyond their required time limits to help their students get the resources they need. Our employees and family members pick up tasks of all kinds. Our furry companions deserve a share of the credit, too! Their humble spirits inspire our bakers on-site and off. The real credit goes to my daughter, Natalie, our employees with disabilities and the students who participate in our program. Their unique perspectives and contributions are heard and appreciated and we’re just grateful to play a small role in the unfolding of their lives.
Pricing:
- $5.95 per bag
Contact Info:
- Website: www.brewhausdogbones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhdogbones/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brewhausbakeryanddogbones
