For the Tomahawk Leader
TOMAHAWK – The Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin and the Central Wisconsin Affiliate last week announced Cherie’s Sweet Sensations, 23 W. Wisconsin Ave., Tomahawk, as an Autism Friendly Communities partner in the Central Wisconsin area.
“The new Autism Friendly Communities Initiative, launched earlier this year, aims to increase the quality of life for those affected by autism by improving community understanding of autism and improving access to inclusive experiences, programs, and events,” a release from Autism Society of Central Wisconsin said.
“The Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin and our local affiliates are excited for the opportunity to partner with local businesses to make community spaces more welcoming and inclusive to autistic individuals,” stated Kirsten Cooper, executive director of the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin.
“We are so grateful to Cherie for her commitment to inclusion at Cherie’s Sweet Sensations,” said Angie Higgins, board member of the Autism Society of Central Wisconsin. “It means a lot to local families to know there are businesses like this where people with autism are welcomed and understood.”
Cherie’s Sweet Sensations is a bakery that specializes in deluxe cheesecakes, unique cakes, muffins, breads scones, cookies, brownies, and more for any type of celebration. As part of the Autism Friendly Communities partnership, staff received training about autism and ways to support individuals with autism visiting the bakery.
Cherie’s Sweet Sensations also has visual supports available and can make sensory accommodations when requested. The bakery has also shared plans to host sensory-friendly events when it is safe to resume larger gatherings.
“I’m so proud that Cherie’s Sweet Sensations is the first Autism Friendly Communities partner in Tomahawk,” said Cherie Krueger, owner of Cherie’s Sweet Sensations. “Ensuring that our local businesses are welcoming and supportive to all families is so important for a strong community. I encourage other businesses to join the initiative and would be happy to share our experience with anyone interested.”
About the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin
The Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin provides a community for those interested in increasing the quality of life for those affected by autism in its 53-county service area. Founded in 1979 as the Autism Society of Wisconsin, the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin has been passionately committed to improving the lives of those affected by autism for 40 years through its five core program areas: support, education, information and referral, advocacy and community building.
About the Autism Society of Central Wisconsin
The Autism Society of Central Wisconsin was founded in 2000. Our mission is to raise local awareness, be a source of information, and provide support to all affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder.