Popcorn for the People Creates Employment Opportunities for Individuals with Autism
Photo from Popcorn for the People website.
When Steven Bier and his wife saw their son, who is on the spectrum, come home “red as a lobster” from a sunburn after a day pushing grocery carts, they knew it was time to find a more meaningful employment opportunity for him.
Unfortunately, employment opportunities for individuals with special needs are not easy to come, which inspired the family to create some. By a stroke of luck, they quickly stumbled upon a local popcorn shop for sale, and knew what they had to do.
Popcorn for the People established a non-profit business model where they proudly employ both individuals on the spectrum and neurotypical individuals. They have their own processing center where they train employees “to create, cook, package, and sell uniquely flavored gourmet popcorn.” Just like any other business, employees are evaluated to understand their strengths and skills, and assigned an appropriate position.
Popcorn for the People has been able to grow into “one of the largest employers of workers with autism,” according to Bier. They sell popcorn at NFL games in Philadelphia and Big Ten games at Rutgers, with their products also being carried at theaters and stores across the Northeast.
With the pandemic came many changes, and they are now focusing on online sales and advertising, and selling at smaller markets while taking the necessary safety precautions.
As for the future of Popcorn for the People, Biel wants it to remain a “long-term, sustainable, national business that can be replicated.” Popcorn for the People sets a high standard for the model of what an employment opportunity for individuals with autism can look like.
You can buy Popcorn for the People’s products on their online store, with their unique flavors ranging from more classic butter or caramel, to unique french toast or dark chocolate espresso. Every purchase contributes to employing individuals with autism, and makes for a delicious snack.