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Local Nonprofit ASDD Empowers Adults With Disabilities Through Work, Community, and Opportunity
The Avoyelles Society for the Developmentally Disabled (ASDD) has been serving the community for more than five decades, and their mission remains as strong today as it was when the organization was founded in 1968: helping adults with developmental disabilities live happy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
While many in the community are familiar with ASDD through its well-known baked goods, the organization’s work extends far beyond the kitchen.
Job-Ready Skills and Supported Employment
ASDD’s vocational program has evolved to focus on job-ready skills that prepare participants for real employment in the community. Participants no longer work directly in the bakery. Instead, they receive hands-on instruction in completing résumés, filling out job applications, preparing for interviews, and developing workplace skills needed to obtain employment.
Once a participant is job-ready, ASDD transitions them into Supported Employment, where staff provide one-on-one assistance to help individuals successfully maintain their jobs. ASDD ensures participants earn at least minimum wage and even provides transportation to and from work when needed, helping remove barriers that might otherwise prevent employment.
“Our goal is to focus on the ability, not the disability,” ASDD Executive Director Chasity Cole shared. “Sometimes we just have to go about things in a different way to reach the same end goal.”
Life Skills for Independent Living
For those who attend ASDD’s Day Program, the focus is on building life skills that promote independence. Participants work on everyday tasks such as managing medical appointments, grocery shopping, cooking, socialization, and following special dietary needs.
Some participants also attend Adult Education classes as they work toward earning their GED. Each individual’s day is centered around their interests and goals, allowing them to learn, grow, and build confidence at their own pace.
ASDD applies these skills to real-life experiences, ensuring participants are prepared not just for employment, but for independent living within the community.
Silver Lining Pie and Silver Lining Sweets & More
Many community members recognize ASDD through Silver Lining Pie, where baked goods are prepared. Today, all baked items are sold through Silver Lining Sweets & More, which serves as the retail outlet for the organization’s treats.
At the sweet shop, you can pick up ready-made items or call ahead to order. The shop constantly offers new menu items, and it is now hosting birthday and special event parties for the community to enjoy. By purchasing baked goods, community members directly support ASDD’s programs and the individuals they serve—turning every order into an act of inclusion and empowerment.
Community Involvement and Education
ASDD encourages community involvement through volunteering, donations, and participation in events. The organization welcomes visitors to tour the facility, share a meal, or spend time with participants—proving that meaningful connections often start with something as simple as a smile.
Fundraising opportunities are offered throughout the year, with proceeds going directly toward programs that support participants and promote a more inclusive community. Be sure to check ASDD’s website frequently to learn about upcoming fundraisers. https://www.asddsilverlinings.org/
ASDD also provides educational opportunities through internships, school visits, and programs for students interested in disability advocacy and community service.
Learning More
Those interested in learning more about ASDD, Silver Lining Sweets & More, or how to support the organization can contact ASDD at (318) 253-6955 or visit their office at 377 Moreau St., P.O. Box 854, Marksville, LA 71351.
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