βοΈ ππ²π ππΈπΎ π΄π·πΈπ βοΈβ¦In 2020, the CDC estimated that one in 36 children in the US has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
When Mike and Brandy Holthaus walked into We Rock the Spectrum - Edwardsville six years agoβ¦they had no idea that they would be the future owners.
Their eldest son, Tyler, was diagnosed as level 2 ASD just after his second birthday, so having a fun environment to play that also met his sensory needs was very important to their family. When the previous owners of the gym were looking to sell, Mike and Brandy decided to take a leap of faith and jump into business ownership! Their passion for helping people with special needs and supporting families just like theirs bloomed into rapid expansion for WRTS.
Brandy spoke with our students about the benefits of owning a franchise:
β’ Pre-existing brand that people already know and trust
β’ Proven business model
β’ Large team that provides support in many areas (legal, marketing, etc.)
Brandy also stressed the importance of πππ‘πππ£πππ πͺπ·π πππ£π¦ππ‘ππππ to our young entrepreneurs. Know your customer, get to know the best platform to reach them, know the correct key words, collaborate with ANYONE you can!...these strategies are all keys to helping your business stay connected.
Brandy and Mike -- THANK YOU for welcoming us into your second home. We appreciate your time and are grateful for the information you shared with us. We greatly admire the work you are doing and are grateful to have you in our community!
----------
Did you knowβ¦
In 2020, the CDC estimated that one in 36 children in the US has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
An autism diagnosis is vital to getting the right help and support. An autism assessment can be the first step to understanding peopleβs needs and, although they shouldnβt be, people are often told they canβt get support without a diagnosis. (NAS.com)
Unfortunately, many families have to wait months, even years, from the time concerns are reported for their child to be formally diagnosed.
Brandy is passionate about working toward positive change for those with autism and sensory issues. To find out more about WRTS or to learn more ways to get involved or for resources for families in need, please visit their website (https://www.werockthespectrumedwardsville.com/about-us/#) and check out the National Autistic Society (https://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved)