Big, joyful news! John Cronin has been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30, the first person with Down syndrome ever to make the list. It’s a huge win for inclusion and a celebration of the impact John has created through John’s Crazy Socks, Abilities Rising, and his advocacy work.
This milestone isn’t the end. It’s a boost to keep spreading our message: when you believe in people, they rise.
John and Mark X. Cronin have been spreading happiness and championing inclusion everywhere they go, lighting up conferences, classrooms, and boardrooms with their message that people with differing abilities can do amazing things. After a whirlwind 15-event speaking streak, this father-son team is inspiring audiences nationwide with stories of entrepreneurship, purpose, and possibility. Their 2025 calendar is now open—let’s change the world, one smile and one sock at a time.
At John’s Crazy Socks, we believe words matter! Mark Cronin, our co-founder, is asking everyone—including leaders—to stop using hurtful words like the r-word. People with differing abilities aren’t “less than”—they’re talented, hardworking, and full of possibility. Inclusion isn’t a weakness; it’s powerful, and it makes our world brighter every day.
New York is making progress, but too many people with disabilities are still being left out of the workforce—and that needs to change. At John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising, we know the incredible things people with differing abilities can achieve when given a real chance. That’s why we’re championing entrepreneurship as a powerful path forward. With the right support—from certification and state contracting opportunities to grants and coaching—we can help more disability-owned businesses grow, hire, and inspire. Together, we can build a happier, more inclusive economy where everyone’s talents shine.
We were honored to host New York Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow at John’s Crazy Socks for a tour and an in-depth conversation about expanding employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for people with differing abilities. Together, we discussed eliminating the subminimum wage, addressing employment challenges, and supporting disability-owned businesses. Assemblyman O’Pharrow’s genuine engagement and commitment to inclusive policies inspire us as we continue our mission to show what people with differing abilities can achieve and to build a more inclusive economy for all.
John’s Crazy Socks helped spread holiday cheer at the 16th Annual Santa Visit at the Conklin Barn, a community fundraiser supporting the Townwide Fund of Huntington. We donated 50 festive sock gift bags, and our co-founder, John Cronin, spent the morning greeting families, handing out socks, and sharing smiles with children and their pups. The event, hosted by Len Marks Photography, raised funds for vital local programs—perfectly aligning with our mission to give back and spread happiness.
Our Co-Founder John Cronin braved the icy waters of Long Island Sound at Cedar Beach for the Special Olympics New York Polar Plunge—his 12th time! Joined by his brother Jamie, John celebrated community, courage, and giving back to a cause close to his heart. As a Special Olympics athlete for over 20 years, John credits the organization with shaping who he is today. Thanks to supporters, our company has donated over $150,000 to Special Olympics New York, helping 42,000+ athletes thrive year-round. There’s still time to donate, shop our Polar Plunge socks, and share the joy!
We shared our story with Morgan Stanley’s Green Jade Group — a story about family, purpose, and the power of inclusion. What began with John, a young man with Down syndrome who wanted to start a business, has grown into the world’s largest sock store and a movement that shows what people with differing abilities can do.
Our message was simple: don’t focus on limitations — look at the possibilities. Inclusive hiring works, purpose drives success, and together we can build businesses that make money and make a difference.
Celebrate Gratitude Week at John’s Crazy Socks! From November 25 to December 2, we’re saying thank you with discounts, free gifts, surprises, and donations to the Special Olympics. Join us as we spread happiness, give back to our charity partners, and celebrate the mission that makes our socks more than just socks.
Mark and John Cronin join Valerie Arbeau on the Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities podcast to share their family story, the founding of John’s Crazy Socks, and their mission to promote inclusion, meaningful employment, and dignity for people with differing abilities. In this heartfelt conversation, they discuss overcoming early challenges, the power of believing in possibilities, and the importance of fair pay, autonomy, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Their message is simple and strong: when we lead with love and inclusion, we create futures filled with purpose and possibility.
Custom socks are more than fun—they’re powerful brand builders. Discover how John’s Crazy Socks helps small businesses stand out, delight customers, strengthen team culture, and spread happiness with high-quality, mission-driven custom socks.
Santa is coming to Huntington—and John’s Crazy Socks is joining the fun! We’re supporting the 16th Annual Santa Visit at the historic Conklin Barn with festive photo sessions, free gift bags for the first 50 families, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. Best of all, proceeds benefit the Townwide Fund of Huntington, helping neighbors in need. Celebrate the season with smiles, socks, and a meaningful cause.