Business & Tech
Local shop features accessories by area woman with Down Syndrome
Local retailer features new accessory line created by area woman with Down syndrome
CLEARWATER, Fla. – A young woman with Down syndrome is taking her business to the next level by getting her artisan, hand-crafted accessories placed for sale in retail stores in the Tampa Bay area.
Maxine Simeone, 23, has been creating fashion-forward hair accessories for years. The Clearwater-based nonprofit Help Us Gather (HUG) helped Maxine streamline her growing business, called “Sparkles by Maxine”. Now, her one-of-a-kind headbands and hair clips are for sale in the locally-owned shop Poolside in Clearwater Beach.
Poolside is a well-known local business with an established client base, focusing on high-end resort wear and accessories. Poolside’s owner didn’t have to feature Sparkles by Maxine — he chose to. It’s a distinction that makes HUG’s founder proud to live in a community like ours.
“It is amazing to watch the impact that one “yes” can have on both the lives of individuals with special needs and our community,” said Robin Lally, founder of HUG. “Maxine’s success story will certainly inspire others.”
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 19% of people with a disability were employed in 2018. That’s why providing opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship is so important; to improve lives, and to create a society that accepts and includes people of all abilities.
Isaac Arobas, Poolside’s owner, said, “We loved the idea of supporting such a great project, especially after hearing about Maxine's outgoing personality. I also truly believe that the product is very sellable, so it's a win-win.”
Maxine is looking to continue expanding her line to other local shops that support young artists and believe in the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Shoppers can also purchase Maxine’s accessories on her website, www.SparklesbyMaxine.org.
Find out what's happening in Clearwaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
ABOUT
Help Us Gather (HUG) is part of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Clearwater, Florida. HUG’s mission is to advocate for inclusion and connect individuals with disabilities to social events and activities. For more information or interview requests, contact HUG at (727) 489 - 5885 or email robin@helpusgather.org.
