News

Jan. 8, 2025

Beyond Bones to Close After Providing 3.5 Years of Empowering Employment

ALLEGAN, Mich.—The Arc of Allegan County (The Arc) will close its all-natural dog treat business and storefront known as Beyond Bones by Feb. 28. Created in July 2021, the business is The Arc’s initiative designed to provide meaningful and much-needed employment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in Allegan County.

“Beyond Bones has created life-changing opportunities for our employees and is the living embodiment of The Arc’s mission to advocate for people with IDDs to live, learn, work, and play with respect, dignity, and meaningful involvement,” said Board President William Brown.

“This initiative’s impact has been immeasurable but the weight of carrying its expenses has necessitated this decision. With heavy hearts, the Board of Directors voted to cease Beyond Bones operations and prioritize our limited funding for The Arc’s core advocacy and programming efforts.”

To date, 37 individuals with disabilities have earned real-world experience by baking and packaging treats and operating the storefront. Currently, Beyond Bones employs 22 individuals with IDDs as bakers and storefront employees as well as two kitchen managers and a business manager.

“Beyond Bones has been more than a treat business; it has been a beacon of inclusion and opportunity in the community for three and a half years,” said Executive Director Roger Bird. “We are extremely proud of our employees and their accomplishments.

“This has been a true labor of love,” Bird added. “We are grateful to the volunteers, financial donors, baking sites, retail partners, and loyal customers who have supported Beyond Bones and our employees.”

As Beyond Bones concludes its journey, it leaves behind a legacy of empowerment and community engagement. The Arc of Allegan County remains committed to advocating for individuals with IDDs and will continue to seek innovative ways to support this mission.

The Beyond Bones storefront located at 219 Hubbard Street in Allegan will be open on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Jan. 31. Online treat sales will also continue through Jan. 31.

Information about sales and possible operations in February will be shared on the Beyond Bones Facebook page at www.facebook.com/beyondbonestreats.

For more information about Beyond Bones and The Arc of Allegan County, please visit www.arcallegan.org

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The Beyond Bones crew and its supporters (customers, donors, volunteers, Arc board members) are a fun and inclusive group! Connect with us to stay up-to-date on our latest news and product releases, upcoming events and sales, and opportunities to take your support beyond purchasing treats!