In addition to offering beautiful bouquets to the public, Kati Mac Floral Designs in West Chester provides a loving workplace for employees with intellectual disabilities, writes Bill Rettew for the Daily Local News.

The nonprofit has a paid staff of four intellectually disabled individuals and two interns. The two interns are part of the Discover program, the shop’s partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit. All employees perform tasks in an environment where people with intellectual disabilities can learn and grow.

“This is a comfortable place for individuals to be supported and learn the flower business,” said Elaine Scott, Kati Mac’s co-owner and manager. “For some, it’s hard to find meaningful employment.”

The latest hire in the shop is Scott’s 25-year-old daughter, Emily, who recently earned an associate’s degree through West Chester University’s RAM Initiative.

The shop is also co-owned by Colleen Brennan, who met Scott 24 years ago at the Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group. After years of fundraising, they were able to establish their nonprofit flower shop.

“We want our community to see how individuals with intellectual disabilities can contribute to society in meaningful ways,” said Brennan.

Read more about Kati Mac Floral Designs in the Daily Local News.