A unique, local business is about to open its doors. The store will provide a rare learning opportunity for its employees, most with special needs.
Valerie Herskowitz's first chocolate shop, the Chocolate Spectrum, opens in just days in the Jupiter West Plaza.
“We're down to crunch time,” said Valerie. “We're T minus 4,5 days now and I'm panic stricken. It’s been a really hard journey for me.”
The shelves are still empty, the fridge is bare but in the kitchen employees churn chocolate to make peanut butter bars, truffles, molded chocolate and other sweets.
“It's fun to bake cook and make chocolate,” said Cristian Panter, 25.
Cristian and most of the other employees have developmental disabilities or are on the Autism spectrum. For many, this is their first job.
“I enjoy it,” said Cristian. “I look forward to getting up in the morning and coming here.”
Valerie is a speech pathologist and works with youngsters on the Autism spectrum. She trained Cristian and other employees on how to make chocolate and pastries that she'll sell at the store. Valerie started the program to give developmentally disabled adults an opportunity many others never get.
“Most importantly it has to be someone who really likes working in the kitchen,” said Valerie.
Valerie's son, Blake, is on the Autism spectrum. She understands her employees’ special needs, and the benefits for them and this new business.
“They’re on time, they're always here,” said Valerie. “Never a minute late.”
Cristian, added, “I enjoy it very much.”
The Chocolate Spectrum will open for business on Tuesday June 28 at 10 a.m., 6725 West Indiantown Rd, Suite 38, Jupiter, FL.
For information about the store and learning program, call Valerie at (954) 980-0134
