Today we’d like to introduce you to The Mercantile Non-Profit.
The, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Mercantile was founded out of both necessity and deep love, inspired by the journeys of two remarkable young men, Jack and Nick, who are members of the special needs community. They represent a population capable of working independently with guidance, but are often caught in the gap between potential and opportunity. Like many individuals with special needs, they seek the right environment to build confidence, skills, and greater independence. This is exactly what The Mercantile provides.
A collective vision was sparked among a group of women. The creation of a space where individuals with disabilities learn real-world job training, grow in confidence, and are celebrated for their unique abilities.
This team of women, who have worked together for years, is united by deep mutual respect and trust, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to building opportunity where it does not yet exist.
Together, we bring experience in retail operations, nonprofit leadership, program development, merchandising, marketing, workforce training, and community engagement.
We are mothers, advocates, entrepreneurs, artists, and community builders – and we believe deeply in the potential of every individual we serve.
We are building a place where individual growth is celebrated, and possibility thrives.
Our mission is simple and powerful:
To empower individuals with special needs, foster personal growth, and build awareness of the meaningful contributions they make to our community.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
We face the “classic” challenges of any new non-profit retailer – getting the word out about The Mercantile and driving traffic into the shop to grow our supporters and repeat customers.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We are a non-profit inclusive artist market and gift shop that provides employment and training opportunities for adults with special needs while serving as a community hub for classes, creative experiences, and meaningful connection.
The Mercantile is a thoughtfully curated space featuring art and goods for every budget. The shop features artists and makers with disabilities, as well as organizations that champion the success of this population through employment/creative programming/volunteer opportunities.
A variety of independent artists also showcase their art and unique creations in our vibrant space.
Beyond retail, we offer creative classes and provide community space that invites connection, shared growth, and inclusion.
Our unique business model is structured to allow the particular population of individuals that we serve the time and room to grow in job skills and life skills.
The Mercantile Co-Founders:
Christina Bair (Nick’s Mom) Holly Clexton Waechter (Jack’s Mom) Shelly Boynton
Amy Bonser Emily Wiedmaier Leanie Bayly
Contact Info:
- Website: https://themercantilenonprofit.com
- Instagram: @themercantilenonprofit
- Facebook: @themercantilenonprofit
