ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI — A business that made dog treats and offered jobs to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is closing its doors.
Beyond Bones, 219 Hubbard St. in Allegan, will close its doors no later than Feb. 28, according to a news release from the Arc of Allegan County.
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Created in July 2021, the all-natural dog treat business has employed 37 people with disabilities. Beyond Bones currently employs 22 people with IDDs as bakers and storefront employees, as well as two kitchen managers and a business manager.
“Beyond Bones has created life-changing opportunities for our employees and is the living embodiment of The Arc’s mission to advocate for people with IDDs to live, learn, work and play with respect, dignity and meaningful involvement,” said William Brown, ARC Board of Directors President. “This initiative’s impact has been immeasurable, but the weight of carrying its expenses has necessitated this decision.
“With heavy hearts, the board of directors voted to cease Beyond Bones operations and prioritize our limited funding for The Arc’s core advocacy and programming efforts.”
The business got its start in 2021, selling treats at vendor fairs, farmers markets, online and in The Arc office. The downtown Allegan retail space has sold Beyond Bones’ handmade dog treats, as well as other pet-focused products, since June 2022.
“Beyond Bones has been more than a treat business; it has been a beacon of inclusion and opportunity in the community for three and a half years,” said Roger Bird, ARC Executive Director. “We are extremely proud of our employees and their accomplishments. This has been a true labor of love.”
The organization is grateful to the volunteers, donors, retail partners, loyal customers and those who provided baking sites, Bird said.
The Beyond Bones storefront will remain open on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Jan. 31.
For more information, or to place an online order prior to Jan. 31, please visit beyondbonestreats.com or arcallegan.org. Information about sales and possible operations in February will be shared on the Beyond Bones Facebook page.
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