On October 17, 2025, we had the joy and honor of joining the BeMore Active Together – All In  On Inclusion webinar as featured speakers. It was a day filled with stories, purpose, and powerful connections, and it reminded us once again just how much inclusion matters, not just in theory, but in practice. 

This year's theme, "Advancing Access and Equity: Then, Now, and Next," brought together families, employers, advocates, and self-advocates from across the country. We were grateful to be a part of it and to share our story, not just of how we built John's Crazy Socks, but how we continue building a business that puts people of all abilities at the center. 

"I have Down syndrome, but Down syndrome never holds me back." 

That's how John introduced himself to the BeMore audience. It's not just aline,it's how he lives. 

Back when John was in his final year of high school, he found himself facing the same question many young adults do: What's next? Hecouldn't find meaningful work, but John is a natural entrepreneur. If he could not find a job he wanted, he would create one. He came to me with an idea: "Let's go into business together." After a few false starts, he suggested that we sell socks. Why socks.  

John alwayssays, "They are fun, colorful, and creative. They always let me be me." 

We started small. A little website. A few videos filmed on my iPhone. Some colorful socks. Our mission was simple and still is: Spreading Happiness. 

In just two weeks, we shipped 452  orders, and we knew we had something. We did not know how big the business would grow or how fast, but we knew we could build a business around selling socks. More importantly, we started something bigger than a sock business. We started a movement, one that celebrates ability, spreads happiness, and creates opportunity. 

Inclusion Is Not Altruism, It's Good Business 

We shared with theBeMore audience that more than half our team members have a differing ability, and that has been one of our greatest advantages. 

We told the story of Thomas, a young man with autism who was struggling to engage with the world. When his mom asked if we'd hire him, we weren't sure. But when the time came, Thomas not only joined our team,he  thrived. He became one of our most dedicated sock wranglers. The young man who would not look at you or speak to you began talking with others and becoming a key part of our team.  

All we did was give him a chance. 

That's what inclusion looks like. Real opportunity. Real impact. Real people. 

During the webinar, we were asked for advice for aspiring entrepreneurs with varying abilities. John said it best: "Follow your heart. Follow your dreams. Work hard. Show what you can do." 

And from my side: Don't wait for everything to be perfect. There will always be challenges. You'll learn as you go. But if you have a dream, take that first step. Just like John did. 

We also got to invite everyone to John's weekly Online Dance Party (every Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET!). It's one of our favorite ways to bring people together and celebrate joy. Happiness should be shared, not saved for later. 

Thank You, BeMore;  Let's Keep the Momentum Going 

To the team at BeMore Developmental Support Services Inc., thank you. Thank you for your work, your heart, and your commitment to equity and inclusion. Your theme —"Opportunity Is Created, Not Just Given" — resonates deeply with our own mission at John's Crazy Socks and now at Abilities Rising.