As a family, we knew that it would be difficult for Zach to get a job someday. We read the statistics, that Deaf men of color, particularly if they had additional disabilities were significantly less likely to find a job than their hearing peers. Statistics like this kept us up at night, worrying about what the future would look like for our vibrant, social son.

We began to dream about creating something of our own, that could not only help our son, but other adults with differing abilities. My husband is a numbers guy, by trade, and he ran some numbers, and felt that a donut business would be a viable option, and of course, there isn’t one currently in Mattawan. More numbers were crunched, and we decided to start with a donut truck for many factors.

Our goals are to fully become an inclusive community that embraces and values everyone’s strengths and gifts that they bring to the table, AND to teach our community ASL through our videos online, and continued interactions in the community.

Zach IS Bobo, it’s a nickname from childhood that has stuck. All 7 of our kids all help on the donut truck with the exception of our youngest, but you will see her around. They are Zach’s biggest cheerleaders and it has been beautiful to see them rallying around their brother to build something beautiful for his future.

Zach is our donut cutter extraordinaire, so he’s usually in the back of the truck, but he loves to say hi, so if you come to our window, don’t be afraid to ask for him! He will pop his head out to say hi and give you his iconic smile.

We are forever grateful for our amazing community that has loved and supported us in this endeavor!