Good Reasons: Unleashing Pawtential

North Salem, New York, July 31, 2014 (Newswire.com) - Good Reasons is an exciting new social enterprise launched by premier Westchester-based providers of social services Community Based Services, Inc. (CBS). CBS provides services and support, including residential and day habilitation opportunities, for people with autism and other developmental disabilities throughout the greater Hudson Valley region.

Vicki Sylvester, Ph.D., CBS CEO and Good Reasons founder, merged her 30 years of professional experience as an advocate for people with special needs with her love of animals to create a unique company that supports an integrated workforce. “When the State of New York asked its network of providers to help create jobs for people of all abilities, I saw a great opportunity. Good Reasons will be able to turn untapped potential into meaningful employment and take New York’s initiative to a whole new level,” says Sylvester.

The entire production process of Good Reasons’ line of healthy and delicious dog treats, from baking to packaging to shipping, benefits the not for profit’s integrated workforce, which employs people of all abilities. “Knowing that we could provide the people we serve with the opportunity to experience social fulfillment in the workplace, while also benefitting the pets we love, felt as good a reason as any to pursue this mission. That is where the brand’s name derives and we are thrilled to share it,” added Sylvester.

Good Reasons recently launched its site, http://www.GoodReasons.com in which the first of many treat flavors are available for purchase. Charlie’s Cheddar Chomps, Bella’s Barkery Bone and Hudson’s Pumpkin PB Pieces offer a variety of flavor palates, and all natural ingredients developed by Chef Allan Katz, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America. All proceeds from Good Reasons are directed back to support the mission of Community Based Services.

Jasmine, a Good Reasons team member, has been with the company since its inception. “I love being a part of Good Reasons. Packing up the treats in the different colored bags is fun. I like seeing my picture on the website with the dogs. It makes me smile.” When not at Good Reasons, Jasmine participates in the Community Based Services’ ‘Without Walls’ program, a comprehensive Day Habilitation program that allows her to form relationships in the community, develop personal skills and volunteer at local churches and nursing homes.

Providing Jasmine and others this special opportunity has been a worthwhile experience for Sylvester and her team – and they don’t plan on stopping any time soon.

Many individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities do have the skills necessary to enter the workforce through training offered by agencies such as Community Based Services. Unfortunately, there are not as many employers suited to handle their specific needs or willing to open their doors. “Most people enjoy, and rely on, a daily routine. For those on those on the autism spectrum, a routine is even more necessary. Incorporating a job into their daily routine is another way that Good Reasons hopes to integrate and foster greater independence, and enhance the quality of life for as many individuals as we can,” adds Sylvester.

Sylvester aims to create alliances that will provide other local agencies opportunities, expand the Good Reasons product line, as well as make all Good Reasons treats available to local and national retail stores. The goal is to create additional opportunities.

If you’re interested in purchasing treats and learning more, you can go to www.GoodReasons.com, ‘Like’ them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/goodreasons2014 or Follow them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/goodreasons2014

About Good Reasons

Good Reasons is a dog treat company on a mission. They create delicious dog treats while providing opportunity and employment for people with all abilities. Founder, Vicki Sylvester, Ph.D., merged her professional experience as an advocate for the disabled community with her love of animals to create a company that supports an integrated workforce. Sylvester is also the CEO of Community Based Services, Inc. (CBS), a not-for-profit organization that provides the highest level of individualized support for people with autism and other developmental disabilities. CBS’s mission is to provide each individual with the best possible quality of life through residential and community-based opportunities.

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