New store gives job opportunities to people with disabilities while honoring memory of Milford boy

MILFORD, Mass — Something sweet is happening in Milford.

A new candy story called “Sweet Inspirations” just opened for business.

This venture has a unique mission.

It honors the legacy of Aaron Zenus.

Before he died at the age of 12 from the flu, he spent much of his time helping people with intellectual and physical disabilities by volunteering with Special Olympics.

“He was not your typical 12-year-old. He would just give to someone else instead of taking something for himself,” said Joseph Zenus, the boy’s grandfather.

Now with this candy store, Aaron’s memory continues to help people with disabilities.

The foundation in his name established the store so it could provide jobs to people who might not otherwise be able to find work.

Jennifer Walsh, the co-founder of the Aaron Zenus Foundation, explained, “It’s about quality of life. Our goal was to give our individuals the same opportunities as everybody else. If I had to sit at home every day and didn’t have a job and didn’t have a social life, that would be sad for me.”

There’s nothing but joy in Santa’s Workshop at Sweet Inspirations.

The workers laugh and joke as they prepare special candy treats for an upcoming event.

Jesse Pagnini and four other workers have a sense of purpose they didn’t have before.

“I’d stay at home. Watch TV. I don’t know. I wouldn’t like it too much. I come here and get my job done and I go home. It makes me feel good.”

Starting a business from scratch is hard work, but Walsh says it’s been making her feel good to see it take off.

“It’s just a happy place anyways, because it’s all candy and colorful and bright.” But she says getting a welcoming hug from some of the workers is “lifts your spirits when you come in the store.”

Coming into Sweet Inspirations certainly has the same effect on Zenus, particularly when into the store and sees Aaron’s picture on the wall.

“Every time I come in the store, anything I do, every day I think of him,” said Zenus. “He would just be ecstatic. He would be so happy. So proud. And we’re so proud to make sure his legacy lives and his memory stays alive.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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