The Eisenhower Center is a vocational training program on the northwest side of Milwaukee that provides training and jobs for adults with disabilities that live in some of the most economically and racially distressed communities across Milwaukee County. Traditionally the Eisenhower Center has partnered with local businesses to provide packaging assembly and other fulfillment services to provide program participants valuable skills, work experience that can be used in the community, dignity, and hope.
However, with the changing economy, the center saw some of their partners go out of business or restructure. This spurred them to create a business in house that could support the center’s participants. With this creativity, Ike Bites was born!
Ike Bites are dog treats that are made from scratch with all-natural, human-grade ingredients. They come in four varieties, are grain-free and do not contain any artificial flavors, colors or dangerous additives. 100% of the proceeds go towards supporting individuals with disabilities.
“It’s really about the people behind Ike Bites,” states David Ordan, Chief Executive Director at the Eisenhower Center. “Our goal is that when someone purchases a bag of Ike Bites, they are not only getting a wholesome treat for their dog but also providing opportunities for those who create, bake, package and label Ike Bites.”
Another unique aspect of Ike’s Bites is that different team members are featured on the package labels. This tells the consumer a little bit more about each participant that produces these treats and lets them know that their purchase makes a world of difference for those working at the Eisenhower Center.
Funds from the grant will help upgrade their baking facilities and expand their retail distribution. As David Ordan says, “The more treats that are made, means more sales and more sales means more jobs.” Even more important, the impact of the grant will help the Eisenhower Center develop a model for future businesses so they can continue to offer high-quality education, training, and jobs to their participants for many years to come.
Congratulations Ike Bites!
