Maryland Mom Opens Smoothie Shop That Offers Jobs To People With Special Needs
May 13, 2023
When a Maryland mother couldn't find an inclusive space for her boys with special needs, she decided to create one of her own.
That Smoothie Place | Credit: wjla.com / 7News
After 15 years as a real estate agent, Monique Sotomarino opened That Smoothie Place to give jobs and internships to anyone with special needs.
Her business partners with Montgomery County Public Schools by providing internships and jobs.
"I didn't want to focus just on higher functioning individuals, but individuals of all abilities and give them their opportunity to try this place out," Sotomarino told 7News.
Sometimes it might take a little longer to get your smoothie, so Sotomarino provides entertainment at all the tables.
"I love to see families come in and put down their phones and actually focus on the games. I even have families... they switch tables," she said.
Her goal is to bring That Smoothie Place to other cities so they can partner with other districts too.
Watch the video below.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Football Player Asks Friend With Down Syndrome To Homecoming
People Are Sharing Their Oddly Romantic Date Stories, And They’ll Make You Smile So Big
Woman Is Late to Her Own Funeral After Hearse Keys Get Locked Inside
This Pit Bull Was Days Away From Being Euthanized. Now, He's A Police Hero
Hospital Staff Go Above And Beyond To Keep Couple’s 62-Year Anniversary Tradition Alive
Strangers Send Man Birthday Wishes At The Exact Minute His Late Mom Used To
Dad Dresses As Beast To Walk His Daughter to School And It’s Melting Hearts Everywhere
Toddler’s 3 A.M. DJ Session Has the Internet Cracking Up
This Turkey Was Heartbroken — Until Her Owner Gave Her The Sweetest Surprise
Man Compliments Elderly Strangers, Then Gives Them Flowers. Their Reactions Are So Wholesome
They Found Out He Couldn’t Afford The Shirt. Their Response Went Viral For All The Right Reasons
