We love shining a light on organizations that are lighting the way with inclusive hiring, particularly during National Disability Employment Month (NDEAM). Ask yourself, what happens when you build a business with inclusion at its core?
You get Spectrum Designs.
They are a New York-based nonprofit apparel company that can put a label on anything from t-shirts to mugs to pens and buttons. But they do so much more. Over 60 percent of their team members are on the autism spectrum, and every sale directly supports their mission of creating inclusive, neurodiverse employment opportunities. They craft beautiful products and meaningful lives.
Patrick Bardsley: Leader
We’ve admired Spectrum Designs for years. Their work is personal to us, not just because they’re fellow entrepreneurs in the disability space, but because their CEO and Co-founder, Patrick Bardsley, is a friend and fellow believer in the power of purpose-driven business. We work with Patrick as part of the Neurodiversity at Work Business RoundTable and the CEO Commission for Disability Employment. Patrick is a business leader and a fierce advocate for inclusive employment.
Building a Business That Builds People
Spectrum Designs operates from two locations in New York —Port Washington and Pleasantville —and serves a wide range of clients, including Google, 1-800 Flowers, Northwell Health, and the New York State Office of Parks. The scale and sophistication of their operations rival any traditional apparel business, but with one key difference: they lead with mission.
And that mission? It’s working.
Their growth proves what we say in every keynote: hiring people with differing abilities isn’t altruism, it’s good business. Spectrum shows us how inclusive workplaces can deliver top-tier results while building a better world.
More Than a Workplace, a Movement
Spectrum’s partnership with The Nicholas Center for vocational training helps ensure that employees receive not just jobs, but the support and skills they need to thrive. Their facilities are eco-conscious, their designs are cutting-edge, and their culture is one of collaboration, respect, and opportunity.
When people ask us, “Where can I see inclusion in action?” we point to Spectrum Designs.
Why This Matters During NDEAM (And Every Month)
National Disability Employment Awareness Month reminds us to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities. At John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising, we believe that celebration should come with action.
Businesses like Spectrum Designs are leading the way. They’re not just hiring people with differing abilities; they’re betting on them. And that bet is paying off.
As fellow entrepreneurs in this space, we’re proud to shine a light on Spectrum Designs. Their story is more than inspiring; it’s instructive. It teaches us that if we build with purpose, we can create something extraordinary.
Want to Learn More?
Visit www.spectrumdesigns.org to explore their products, mission, and impact. Or better yet, place an order and see the quality for yourself.
Want to Bring This Message to Your Audience?
We speak on inclusive hiring, purpose-driven business, and building joyful workplaces. Whether it’s a keynote, workshop, or panel, we’d love to connect. Reach out to us at JohnandMarkCronin.com.