At John’s Crazy Socks, we’re not just about spreading happiness with our colorful socks; we’re committed to empowering people with differing abilities and making a meaningful impact. Last week, we were thrilled to welcome New York State Assemblyman Keith Brown (12th District) to our office and warehouse in Farmingdale, New York, for an important discussion on fostering entrepreneurship for people with differing abilities. 

Assemblyman Keith Brown Visits John’s Crazy Socks 

Assemblyman Brown and his staff visited John’s Crazy Socks to learn more about our mission, tour our facility, and discuss a crucial topic: how New York can better support entrepreneurs with disabilities. John proudly led the tour, sharing stories about our employees and how our social enterprise operates. The Assemblyman was inspired by John’s energy and passion, as well as the incredible work being done at our company. 

“John’s Crazy Socks is an extraordinary example of how a business can combine purpose with profitability,” said Assemblyman Brown. “It’s inspiring to see how John and Mark are not only creating jobs but also advocating for systemic change to uplift people with differing abilities.” 

A Discussion Rooted in Action 

During the meeting, we presented our proposal to make entrepreneurship accessible for all, including people with differing abilities. Here are some of the key steps we advocated for: 

1. Disability-Owned Business Certification: Establishing a state certification for businesses owned by people with disabilities to enhance visibility and access to resources. 
2. State Contract Set-Asides:Creating procurement set-asides to ensure disability-owned businesses have fair opportunities to secure state contracts. 
3. Expanded Support Through NYSID:Including for-profit disability-owned businesses in the New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID) programs. 
4. Technical Support and Grants:Offering tailored technical assistance and dedicated startup grants for disability-owned businesses. 

“These measures aren’t just about inclusivity; they’re about unlocking a wave of innovation and talent that has been overlooked for too long,” said Mark X. Cronin, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks. 

John’s Story: The Power of Entrepreneurism 

John’s journey underscores why entrepreneurship is a game-changer. When traditional job opportunities weren’t available, he created his own path. Today, John’s Crazy Socks employs 34 people, 22 of whom have differing abilities. We’ve also donated over $800,000 to charity and inspired countless others to follow their dreams. 

“I love having Assemblyman Brown visit and seeing what we do,” said John. “We want everyone to know what people with differing abilities can achieve when given a chance.” 

A Commitment to Change 

Assemblyman Brown expressed his strong support for our initiatives and pledged to follow up. He recognized the value of creating a more inclusive economy and ensuring that people with disabilities have every opportunity to succeed. 

“Supporting entrepreneurs with differing abilities isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do for New York’s economy,” he said. 

How You Can Help 

At John’s Crazy Socks, we believe advocacy starts with awareness. Join us in our mission by: 

• Sharing John’s story and the importance of inclusive entrepreneurship. 

• Contacting your local representatives to support initiatives for disability-owned businesses. 

• Supporting social enterprises like ours that are making a difference. 

• Buying our socks. When you buy our socks, you help us create jobs for people with differing abilities, you help us Give Back, and you make our advocacy possible. Most of all, you help us spread happiness.  

Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

Call to Action: 

Help us spread happiness and make a difference! Visit John’s Crazy Socks to shop socks that inspire and support our mission. Every purchase helps create jobs, give back to the community, and showcase what people with differing abilities can do. Let’s walk together toward change—one step, one sock at a time!