Ashlee Crater, who has Down Syndrome, knows how difficult it is for her, and others, to find employment due to their disabilities, so she came up with a solution to the problem.
Crater started her own e-commerce store in February, Embrace Marketplace (embracemarketplace.com), which sells items made by people with Down Syndrome. Its mission is to provide meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
“I am so excited to have a job,” said Crater of her business. “I had two jobs last year but couldn’t work because of COVID. I am smart and love to work!”
Embrace Marketplace is not just a business, but also a movement meant to empower the Down Syndrome community by offering a platform to sell products, as well as through philanthropic efforts.
“We genuinely acknowledge the strengths that people with Down Syndrome bring to their communities and want to offer a place where they feel appreciated and valued while also showcasing their own passions and discoveries,” reads a statement on the Embrace Marketplace website.
“Now more than ever, we need to embrace one another and work to support those who are often overlooked in employment opportunities.”
Embrace Marketplace currently selling shirts, hoodies, travel mugs and throw pillows with the words “accept, include, embrace” displayed across each product. One T-shirt also marks the upcoming celebration of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21.
Some items, such as a water bottle and drawstring bag, have already sold out.
Crater said public enthusiasm for Embrace Marketplace has been “awesome.”
She plans to sell more products made from members of the Down Syndrome community, such as ornaments, hand-sewn bags and facemasks.
“For self-advocate and owner Ashlee Crater, being able to connect with others within the disability community is essential in making a difference and promoting empowerment for all,” reads the website.
“By wearing one of our items, you are embracing the journey for those who want to create their own paths and turn their passions into their futures.”
A portion of every item purchased is donated to Dayspring Homes Inc., a faith-based nonprofit organization out of Shillington, UK, that assists people with developmental disabilities. Crater has been an active participant in the center’s programs for many years.
Her ultimate dream is to grow Embrace Marketplace’s movement to a national scale.
