Fran's Story

In this interview, Fran shared the inspiring journey of a young person with disability who turned a simple idea into a microenterprise — not for profit alone, but to spread hope and joy to others.

It all started with creating scented diffusers and candles, each chosen for a special meaning and memory. While this Founder loved making the products, attending busy markets quickly became overwhelming — even with the support of family and mentors.

That’s where The RED Group made the difference. This young entrepreneur didn’t just get help selling — they found a “professional hug”, as Fran described it. A safe, welcoming place surrounded by people who saw the person first — not just their disability.

When the face-to-face markets became too much, RED’s team listened and worked with Fran to adapt the business plan. Together, they explored selling online, running small local stalls, and choosing when and how to show up — always at a pace that felt comfortable and safe.

Through this flexible, person-first approach, the young Founder:

Sold products at local community clubs and special markets.

Learned to balance social energy with business goals.

Stayed in control of their own journey, supported by Fran, their family, and the RED community.

Fran’s work shows what real, flexible support can look like:

Listening first — to what the person wants, not forcing them into a box.
Teamwork — building a safe support network around each Founder.
Options — finding creative ways to adapt, grow, or pause when needed.

RED’s role in this story was to provide:

• A welcoming, inclusive community.
• A safe place to test ideas and sell products.
• Practical coaching and encouragement.
• Creative solutions, like shared markets and online shops.

Most importantly, RED made this journey feel possible — helping a dream of spreading hope become real.

Lessons Learned

Fran’s story reminds us that microenterprise isn’t just about products and profit — it’s about belonging, choice and hope. When you support someone to connect with The RED Group, you help them:

• Discover what lights them up.
• Build skills at their own pace.
• Connect with people who get it.
• Create a business that fits their life — not the other way around.