Spencer Kelly Expedition Soap Co. Highlights Asperger’s Profitable Interest
Written by SAPL on September 13th, 2018 in Asperger People In The News, Careers.
When one Asperger teenager decided he wanted to start a business, his rationale was that everybody uses soap.
And so launched Spencer Kelly’s Expedition Soap Co., from which 2,000 returning customers lather themselves up with bars infused with scents of pumpkin and cider from a company that specializes in all-natural and vegan products that include cleansing and body butters.
The idea started after Kelley needed to repay his father for a new bike. Repayment was made and the business that originally generated $300 turned into one making over $100,000 in profits.
Diagnosed with Asperger’s since the age of four, he’s taken advantage of programs through the Judson Center and Oakland University Center for Autism Outreach Services to develop his social and other skills. Kelley has credited his interest in business as an outlet to counteract many of his challenges.
“Becoming an entrepreneur has been the No . 1 way I have been able to cope and deal with my Asperger’s Syndrome. It has helped so much and helped change my life,” Kelly said. “I feel so passionate about what I am doing.”
Some may liken his passion to soap making as a “special interest” or a hobby that many Aspergers take on intensely.
He plans to attend business school at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business when he graduates high school.
Soap making is not his only pioneering feat. He’s also a voice in the autism community. This winter, he’ll serve on a panel at the 2018 U.S. Autism & Asperger Association World Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, taking place from November 28-December 1. He’s also set for the TEDex Detroit event on September 26.
