Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Peters
Hi Anne , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It all begins with a little girl from the other side of the world. As we learned about her abilities, we soon realized her path was not going to be ordinary. Thinking ahead to life post high school, we wanted to provide a safe and meaningful center of employment for not only her but her peers. Many people with disabilities are seeking an opportunity to work, earn a wage and be a part of a greater community.
I started this non-profit (501c3) in 2021 as I was looking ahead to my daughter’s future and her opportunities. We have a fantastic and robust network in Park City servicing the disability community (National Abilities Center, Lucky Ones, Bridge 21 and Special Olympics of Utah) and I wanted to add to that by creating a space that is part community center and part employment hub.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has generally been smooth, our community is so philanthropic and open to helping out with our mission and cause. Having lived in Park City for 24 years, I have been able to leverage my network of long time locals as well as the faculty at the schools to help make the community aware of our non-profit.
Getting the word out of our opportunities for employment as well as outreach to our potential customers of our custom gift boxes is a slow and steady process but we are committed to a slow growth business model.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have a background in product design – I went to art school back east and moved to Utah in 2001 for a job with Sundance Catalog. Prior to that, I worked in New York City in the fashion business. In 2009 I started a creative agency in Park City that I currently manage along with the non-profit Maker Union.
I love to design and make products and I noticed a void in the gift box market- we started offering local products as well as items that our workforce or our “Makers” could have a hand in. We meet with customers and curate custom gift offerings for them. The workforce touches on all aspects of the process from product ideation, creation, assembly, packaging and shipping. We let each individual go at their own pace- learning new skills and refining them all while working side by side with peers creating a fantastic social situation for them to engage in.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I have been in Park City for 24 years. I have watched this little ski town transform into a world class resort destination. As with all growth there are pros and cons. Yes town is a bit more crowed with newcomers but they also bring with them new ideas, business and energy. Our community is so supportive of neurodiverse individuals- many families move here because of our incredible schools with the Special Education department along with the National Ability Center offering adaptive recreation. .
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.makerunion.org
- Instagram: maker_union
