Aspire Accessories
About Aspire Accessories
Denise Hazen founded Aspire Accessories in 2016 to provide a solution to what is known as the "services cliff" for people with neurological differences. Far too many people in this community age out of support services post-high school, and face high levels of unemployment. At Aspire, our artisans can earn competitive wages while learning transferable job skills.
In 2022 Aspire Accessories joined The HUB Houston.
Today HUB artisans create a vast range of products using a variety of equipment including heat presses, heat embosser, laser etcher, hydraulic press and sublimation as well as hand crafted items. Our clients include HCA, Transwestern, Willbur-Ellis, and Entelligence who understand the importance of partnering and celebrating those on the Autism spectrum or grappling with other neurological differences.
As of 2023 Aspire Accessories has
Sold almost $1 million in products
Paid $350,000+ in artisan wages
Employed 65+ artisans (currently there are 23 artisans working on site)
Provided 7 years employment and training for Houston's autism community.
Our Approach
Our goal is for each HUB artisan to obtain increased independence in a workplace setting. For some individuals, Aspire is a launchpad to realize their potential in preparation for future employment or higher education. Artisans gain new skills as well as an increased sense of confidence to join the workforce. For others, Aspire is a landing pad for supportive, long-term employment, and continuous skill building. Many of our artisans have been employed for 2+ years and continue to grow and hone their skills as the workshop adds new machinery and products.
Autism is a diverse population in terms of skills and aptitudes. Each artisan is unique and we utilize a variety of teaching methods and tools to help them succeed. We empower our artisans to take responsibility for their work, realize their potential and increase their self-awareness and confidence.