Jennifer Wiese, the founder and CEO of BeeFree, found inner strength through the experience of her son’s autism diagnosis. She formed a successful business that is making a difference in people’s lives by not only creating a healthy snack-food alternative, but also an inclusive working environment for people of all abilities.
On the back of the BeeFree Warrior mixes, her message to the consumer reiterates this: “Each of us has our own unique battles to fight each day that require our time, focus and energy. But inside of us all is a warrior’s heart that yearns to rise above and conquer those challenges.”
When Wiese’s oldest son, August “Auggy” Wiese, was diagnosed with autism in 2007, she was determined to advocate for him and support him in every way possible, which included her family’s incorporation of a gluten-free lifestyle. Struggling with finding gluten-free treats that the whole family could enjoy, Wiese and her mother started creating snacks, drawing inspiration from new recipes and recreating family favorites without gluten. From farmers markets to nationwide sales in supermarkets and other major retailers, BeeFree (the name represents freedom from processed junk food) has become a trusted brand for gluten-free, preservative-free products, made with natural and identifiable ingredients including nuts, seeds and honey.
Wiese knew 15 years ago when she founded BeeFree that it had more potential than just being a tasty, healthy eating option. When Auggy started looking for his first job, he was faced with adversity, and with that came an opportunity to make a difference.
“It was obvious there were some major obstacles for people with autism,” says Wiese.
Determined to find a solution for others like Auggy, and always looking at possibilities rather than limitations, Wiese and her team created Warriors at Work. “Being a mom of a child with autism has opened my eyes to the world of disabilities, and made me more patient and accepting to those differences,” says Wiese.
Warriors at Work is a job training program that supports, prepares and builds the confidence of young adults with autism in a safe and welcoming environment. “BeeFree has not only bestowed over 20 first paychecks, but sets an example to the community of the power and value of an inclusive workplace,” says Wiese.
“Don’t let others place limits on your children with or without autism, and don’t ever stop being your child’s advocate, no matter how old they are,” she adds. “They need your voice and support.”
Wiese has big plans for BeeFree.
“BeeFree will continue to bring new, better-for-you products to market, and reach more people through expanding their availability into airports, colleges and universities, and other places where food is available,” she says. “BeeFree would also like their Warriors at Work job training program to continue to grow and expand outside of Hamilton County, with the goal of reducing the 80% unemployment rate of people with autism.”
BeeFree products can be found online or locally at central Indiana Meijer, Kroger, Whole Foods and Market District retailers. Product details and a complete list of where to purchase BeeFree snacks can be found at beefreegf.com.
