Texas Sweet Heat Jam, based in Leander, is a company that provides meaningful employment for adults with intellectual disabilities. The company was founded by Nolan Stilwell, a native Texan with Down syndrome, and his parents Christine and Randy in 2011.
Background and Mission
The company started when Nolan wanted to join his high school’s culinary program but was unable to. Instead, Nolan and his parents created their own opportunity, and over the last 15 years, their company has grown to provide similar opportunities for many more young people with disabilities.
Texas Sweet Heat Jam sells more than a dozen different flavors of jam that combine sweet fruit flavors with a spicy jalapeño kick, as well as mustard and barbecue sauce. Each jar is handcrafted by a small team of dedicated employees.
Impact and Community
The company’s employees are a tight-knit group of friends who love to spend time together both on and off the clock, according to Christine Stilwell. Employee William Mullican IV said, ‘I love Sweet Heat because I love making jam! Nolan is my best friend. We have fun at work!’
Another employee, Chrystal Urias, has worked for Texas Sweet Heat Jam for about five years and said the job has helped her to become more independent as a young adult. The company also offers a three-month internship program for young adults with disabilities looking to gain the skills needed to apply for other jobs in the food industry.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
