In Virginia Beach, a notable establishment has been changing lives for over thirty years. Sugar Plum Bakery, founded in 1987, has established itself as more than just a bakery—it’s a nonprofit organization with a mission to serve individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment, education, and training programs. As the bakery celebrates 35 years of service to its employees and the community, its impact continues to grow.
It’s All About The People
What makes Sugar Plum Bakery special is its dedication to a dual purpose: creating pastries while supporting people with intellectual disabilities to work professionally. The bakery’s founding principle, “It’s All About The People,” reflects its commitment to viewing each employee through their potential and unique contributions. This philosophy has guided the organization through more than three decades of service, transforming lives while satisfying the sweet preferences of Virginia Beach residents.
Sugar Plum Bakery is a leader in promoting the integration of persons with intellectual disabilities into the community. Through its approach, individuals who might face employment barriers find opportunities to develop skills in baking, customer service, and workplace behavior.
The bakery’s supportive environment allows employees to progress at their own pace, celebrating each milestone as they move toward independence and self-sufficiency. Many employees who began with basic tasks have developed specialized skills that have become integral to the bakery’s operations.
The Pastries
While pursuing its social mission, Sugar Plum has built a strong reputation for culinary quality. Their specialty cakes have become fixtures at celebrations throughout Virginia Beach, with customers returning year after year for birthday parties, anniversaries, and holidays. The bakery offers a wide menu of treats, including cookies, pastries, and bread, which matches commercial establishments.
This business success is meaningful because it demonstrates that employing individuals with disabilities is a charitable effort and a sound business model that delivers quality products while positively impacting society.
