Good Reasons® Dog Treats, a non-profit dog treat company that provides employment for people with autism and other developmental disabilities is growing its mission.
Since launching in 2014 Good Reasons has shown significant growth, now offering 6 delicious flavors of their all natural, human grade, locally baked and packed dog treats. They are now selling nationwide via their website in addition to several Whole Foods, Hannaford’s, Tops, and DeCicco’s supermarket locations. Last year Good Reasons was also featured on QVC and ABC World News, and have received generous donations from Thomas Agnes Carvel Foundation, Sterling Bank, Workforce Development Institute, and won a generous grant from Impact 100 Westchester.
The Good Reasons Team hard at work for local company Brewster Plastics
All these factors have enabled Good Reasons to grow their mission even further, introducing GR Pack, a fulfillment and packaging division. GR Pack provides a needed service in the community by being a fulfillment partner for companies seeking assistance with assembly and packaging of various products. GR Pack strives to offer integrated and meaningful employment for people of all abilities.
“Opening our new Westchester space as given us the opportunity to create more jobs. We all desire a purpose in life, and a job where you can make friends, and money is a way to achieve that.” – Dr. Vicki Sylvester, CEO.
The continued development of this local social enterprise also means more community involvement and partnerships. Good Reasons donates treats on a regular basis to local shelters, and SPCA’s and often runs promotions that raise money and awareness for other great causes. Most recently, during October Good Reasons donated $1 from every pink Bella P.B bag sold to Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation. In November, many bags of Tucker’s Turkey flavor were donated to NY and CT shelters, the Patterson Rotary and local food pantries. During the month of Dec many not for profits will receive donations of the red Gracie’s bag, ensuring lots of furry friends are spoiled during the holiday season too.
Recently a vendor and featured panelist at the YAI Hudson Valley Autism Conference, the Good reasons team is always looking to spread awareness of their mission, and that of likeminded companies. Welcoming many visitors to the new space and always seeking ways to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Hosting Brewster Chamber’s networking breakfast and marketing seminar is one way Good Reasons attracts new eyes to what they are doing. “We want other local businesses to see with their own eyes the impact having a job can have on someone’s life. Hopefully by seeing our mission in action other employees will be more motivated to embracing the many benefits of an integrated work team.” – Kelly Apfel, Communications and Development Manager.
Excited for the launch of their new website in the early New Year, Good Reasons will be regularly highlighting the importance of what they are doing within the community. Additionally, several new human consumable products will soon be available for sale, all delicious recipes created by their very own Chef and culinary graduate, Allan Katz.
The the search for more packaging jobs continues, and Good Reasons role as a business leader within the community is something the entire team is passionate about.
Good Reasons’ parent company, Community Based Services (CBS) has been providing residential and community support programs since 1981. With 10 residential homes providing 24/7 care for people with disabilities, a growing day hab without walls program, respite, supported and pathways to employment, the agency leads the charge for self-advocacy and community inclusion for all people. Most recently, CBS opened up a new farm in Hopewell Junction, NY. This Dutchess location will be home to the Cultivating Dreams program and will offer overnight respite capabilities.
About Good Reasons®
Good Reasons® is a dog treat company on a mission. Located in Westchester, NY they create healthy and delicious dog treats while providing opportunity and employment for people of all abilities. Founder, Vicki Sylvester, Ph.D., merged her professional experience as an advocate for the disabled community with her love of animals to create a company that supports an integrated workforce. Unleashing love and potential in every bite!
For more information, contact Kelly Apfel, Communications & Development Manager at 914-236-1129 and info@goodreasons.com or visit www.goodreasons.com.
