Noah’s world is downright special!

Having a child with special needs has changed our life. Something we have found since having Noah, who has Down syndrome, is that there are not many opportunities for individuals with special needs in our communities. My dream is to start small and open a kids' consignment & resale shop that has items for all children, but also focuses on carrying items for kids with special needs. Special needs equipment, learning resources, etc are costly, so it only makes sense to recycle what we're done with and others can use. I would also like to dedicate a portion of the store to selling items made by individuals with special needs. There are some great artists out there with Down syndrome and other disabilites who should have an avenue to sell their talented works. In addition, I hope my business grows to be able to become a community organization that provides funding for those with special needs. Noah is basically non-verbal because we do not have the fund for speech therapy for him. Donations will be used to assist those with unmet needs. I would also like  to eventually train and employ people with disabilities in my store and prepares them for work in the community. Hopefully my store will be so successful, it will have to grow. There is nothing more important than for people to feel needed and meaningful; even those of us with life challenges. So many people with a special need want so badly to be able to be a part of something; to work anywhere, just to show they are important and valuable. Noah has taught us so much in his short life, it's time for our family to give back to the special needs community. As a special education teacher, mom to Noah, and an avid eBayer, I believe I have the background in the needed areas to teach, sell, and promote my business and services. Only a lack of resources will prevent my dream from becoming a reality.