When parents of adults with special needs wanted to organize a group home in Charlotte, North Carolina, Rochel Groner had another idea. Groner is co-director of Friendship Circle, a volunteer based program that advocates on behalf of kids with special needs.

With a background in retail, she founded Zabs Place, an upscale thrift boutique and employment training center.

“Our goal is to create a store with a diverse assortment of quality resale merchandise and one-of-a-kind creations, made by local young adults with special needs, all at thrift shop prices,” says Rochel.