Our story

Our Mission

PASS Marketplace is dedicated to assisting young autistic adults overcome workplace barriers.

Our purpose is to enable individuals to learn new skills and self-confidence, gain independence and succeed in the workplace. As active members of the larger community, we consider work to be an integral part of adult life and a significant contributor to establishing social networks. PASS Marketplace was created in response to the challenges autistic adults face in acquiring meaningful and appropriate employment.

Our Story

In 2016, PASS Marketplace began producing soy wax candles, with every step in the candle-crafting process carried out by young adults enrolled in the program. The first large batch of candles was created as "thank you" gifts for the PASS 9th Imagine Gala, Karma: An Evening of Good Vibes. The response to our candles was overwhelmingly positive, not only generating orders for other events but also highlighting the remarkable abilities of the individuals who made them. Individual candle sales remain the cornerstone of the marketplace, although new products are regularly added to inventory and our small custom packaging work continues to grow.

The program members are involved in every step of the candle-crafting process, from unpacking inventory, to placing and cutting the wicks, scenting the candles, to applying the labels and packaging. 

Tanya Salih, a young adult enrolled at PALS Adult Services Society (PASS), is primarily responsible for designing the majority of the labels and artwork used on our products. Tanya follows a meticulous process that involves selecting a design, sketching the artwork by hand, and using Paint 3D to finalize the design. Each member involved in production makes a unique contribution, collectively creating high-quality products available for purchase year-round.

What We Offer