It’s time to let our love for Yankee Candles fade a little as we shine a spotlight on an inspiring small business from New Jersey that is making a significant impact in their community.
For over two decades, this family-owned candle company, ‘A Cheerful Giver,’ has been dedicated to providing meaningful job opportunities for adults with special needs. Their mission involves hiring these individuals to skillfully place the wicks in their wonderfully aromatic candles.
Established in 1991, ‘A Cheerful Giver’ has grown to supply thousands of retail outlets across the nation and has cultivated a devoted customer base on Amazon. Throughout the years, their commitment to inclusive employment has remained steadfast.
According to the owners, Tony and Susan Gross, “These team members place the wicks in every candle we pour. They’re the heart of our operation.” They emphasize that the amount of work each employee does is completely up to them, creating a relaxed environment free from pressure or quotas, allowing for purposeful employment that fosters pride and belonging.
Employees join the team through a partnership with Career Opportunity Development Inc (CODI), a New Jersey nonprofit established 55 years ago by compassionate parents aiming to create job, training, and housing opportunities for young adults with disabilities. Located just outside Atlantic City in Egg Harbor, CODI provides its workers with competitive wages across various fields, promoting their independence.
Each day, employees can choose to work anywhere from just a few minutes to a full six hours, ensuring that everyone can contribute in a way that suits them. “All of our wickers bring home a paycheck each day for all they’ve accomplished, building a sense of pride and purpose,” Tony and Susan share on their website.
Moreover, when you purchase an A Cheerful Giver candle, you are supporting a workplace that empowers differently-abled individuals to contribute, earn, and feel a sense of belonging.
These candles, available in three sizes, are hand-poured with high-quality paraffin wax, delivering a “powerful scent throw” that has contributed to their popularity—and they are shipped worldwide.
One enthusiastic fan noted, “I was a Yankee Candle zealot until I tried A Cheerful Giver. The scent throw is unmatched… I can smell it throughout my entire house.”
But what truly makes this company shine is not just the quality of their candles, but the wonderful individuals behind their production.
“At A Cheerful Giver, we are more than just another candle company; we are a proud American business that creates our own products and gives back to ensure we are making a difference in the lives of others,” they proudly declare.
So, why not spread the love? Share the uplifting story of A Cheerful Giver on social media and help support their amazing mission!
