Ryder's Recipe for Inclusion
In a world where dreams are often constrained by age and expectations, fifteen-year-old Ryder Newhouse emerges as inspiration, defying stereotypes and spreading joy through his passion for baking and love for dogs. His journey from entrepreneur to a community advocate exemplifies the transformative power of determination, compassion, and inclusion.
At the age of thirteen, Ryder discovered his talent for baking dog cookies, an endeavor that initially began as a simple act of kindness towards the furry companions in his neighborhood. However, what started as a humble gesture soon blossomed into something extraordinary as Ryder witnessed the pleasure his treats brought to the dogs and their owners alike. Encouraged by the overwhelming response, Ryder embarked on a mission to turn his passion into a purposeful venture creating Tommy’s Choice Dog Cookies. With the steadfast support of his grandmother, Lillian, and his friends from the Chilliwack Society for Community Living, Ryder transformed his vision into reality, one batch of cookies at a time.
Named after his faithful guide dog, Tommy, who has been his loyal companion since childhood, Tommy’s Choice Dog Cookies became a symbol of Ryder's dedication to his canine friends. With the addition of Charlie, his newest friend, Ryder found inspiration in the boundless love and loyalty of his four-legged family members.
Ryder's entrepreneurial spirit is matched by his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Recognizing the struggles faced by those with anxiety and lack of confidence, he became an advocate for inclusion, championing the idea that everyone deserves a chance to shine. “Inclusion for me means that everyone has an ability and should be able to use it and be included. I always say we are people with varying abilities and everyone has something they are good at and enjoy. They just need time and support to develop it,” Ryder proudly explains.
Through involvement with the Pacific Autism Family Network and admiration for their initiatives like the Paper Planes Café, Ryder inspires others to embrace diversity and celebrate unique talents.
As Ryder's journey continues to unfold, he remains a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and community support. His story serves as a reminder that no dream is too big and no obstacle too daunting when fueled by compassion and driven by purpose. So, the next time you reach for a bag of Tommy’s Choice Dog Cookies, know that you're not just treating your furry friend to a delicious snack - you're joining Ryder on his mission to spread joy, promote inclusion, and make the world a little brighter, one cookie at a time.
To purchase Ryder’s handmade dog cookies, you can visit the Pacific Autism Family Network Gift Shop at 3688 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC.