Business & Tech

Fairfax Sweet on Chocolatier's Special Business Model

Reader reactions: Wonderful, inspired, superb, a great concept and more.

A new chocolate and coffee shop in Fairfax caused a big stir on Patch recently with its unique approach to job creation.

At Cameron's Chocolates coffee and sweets shop on Fairfax Boulevard, at least half of the shop's employees have intellectual disabilities.

Located at 9639 Fairfax Blvd., Cameron's Chocolates is named after Cameron Graham. Cameron's parents, Ellen and Jim Graham, helped start the business for their daughter in order to give her a place where she could do what she loves—bake, and dip chocolates—and make a living for herself.

The Grahams realized Cameron's Chocolates could be a place that offered the same opportunity for others in the area like their daughter. The shop has three program participants including Cameron, who work alongside a job coach and a general manager.

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“What a truly wonderful and inspired idea!" wrote Carlene Scott. "I will definitely have to visit the next time I’m in Fairfax.”

Ingrid Ketterman hopes to visit the shop soon. "What a great concept," she said.

The like button wasn't enough for Emily Sherfey: “Love love love!!!!”

"Superb," wrote Barb Keeler. "An inspiring example of parental involvement."

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Reader Jen has already visited the shop, "This place is awesome!" she wrote. "I took my daughter and she loved the cookies (the brownies are amazing as well)!"

And Julie Smalfelt said what we were thinking: "Just what I need, another excuse for chocolate...but what a sweet excuse it is! Can't wait to try it out."

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