HB Threads woman employee holding a white custom printed button

Empowering Neurodivergent Talent in Chicago

Addressing Barriers to Inclusive Employment

In Chicago, like many other places, neurodivergent individuals face significant barriers when it comes to finding meaningful employment. Whether it’s a lack of understanding, limited opportunities, or the difficulty of finding work that matches their strengths, the challenges can be overwhelming. In fact, studies show that 8 in 10 individuals with disabilities aren’t part of the workforce, leaving many talented individuals without the chance to thrive.

At HB Threads, we’re committed to changing that narrative. We believe in the power of neurodiversity and know that people with different abilities bring unique strengths to the workplace. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing meaningful job opportunities for neurodivergent individuals in the Chicago area, empowering them to build a better future.

Our Mission

Since our founding, HB Threads has been more than just a custom buttons company. Our mission is deeply rooted in the belief that every individual deserves a chance to succeed. By providing jobs to neurodivergent individuals, we’ve created an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, can feel valued and contribute to something bigger.

Our team works together to create custom shirts, custom buttons, magnets, and more, all while fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. We take pride in creating an environment where every team member feels respected, heard, and empowered to do their best work. It’s not just about what we make; it’s about how we make it—and who we’re making it with.

The Heart of Our Team

One of the most rewarding parts of our journey has been watching our employees grow and thrive. These are just two examples of the incredible talent on our team. Each employee brings something unique to the table, and we’re honored to be able to provide them with the opportunity to shine!

hb threads employee

Rachel Gibson has worked at HB Threads since 2024. Prior to working at HB Threads, she was a program aide at the Gilchrist Marchman Child Development Center. At HB Threads, Rachel most enjoys cleaning, organizing, and creating buttons. She says her favorite thing that HB Threads makes is “everything!” Rachel appreciates the new skills and friendships she’s developed through her employment at HB Threads. In her free time, she most likes to ride her bike and listen to country music.

hb threads employee

Terry Bracy has worked at HB Threads since 2018 and loves helping train other associates to create custom apparel and buttons. He also enjoys organizing supplies and orders, cutting graphics, heat pressing shirts, and operating the embroidery machine. Terry’s favorite thing about working at HB Threads is making and saving money. He says, “HB Threads keep me busy and out of trouble, and I get to make a lot of great friends. I also get to work around fashion, which I love.”

Our Work Environment

We make sure our workspace is accessible and accommodating, offering flexibility in tasks, schedules, and support systems to meet each person’s needs. Whether it’s providing extra time to complete tasks, offering clear instructions, or creating a space where employees can communicate openly, we’re committed to supporting our team every step of the way.

Our goal is to create an atmosphere where everyone can thrive, using their strengths to contribute to the team’s success. From creating custom printed shirts in Chicago to designing personalized buttons and magnets, our employees take pride in their work, knowing that they’re making a difference both in their own lives and in the lives of others.

How Local Businesses Can Support Our Mission

We believe that businesses in Chicago can play a significant role in supporting neurodivergent workers. By partnering with companies like ours, local businesses can help create job opportunities and encourage inclusivity in the workforce. 

Purchasing Our Products

If you’re looking for high-quality custom products, choosing HB Threads means supporting a social enterprise that is committed to creating jobs for people who are often overlooked.

Whether you need custom buttons and magnets for an event, or custom apparel for your team, your order directly supports our mission and helps provide meaningful employment for neurodivergent individuals. Browse our products or place a custom order today!

Donating to Our Cause

You can also support our mission by making a donation, directly helping us expand training, grow our team, and create even more meaningful job opportunities for neurodivergent individuals in Chicago. Your contribution fuels long-term change—breaking down barriers to employment and building a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving community where everyone has a chance to succeed. Every dollar makes a difference.

We’re excited about the future and the impact we can keep making—with your help. Whether you shop our custom merch or make a donation, your support helps create meaningful jobs for Chicago’s neurodivergent workforce. Every order and every dollar brings us one step closer to a more inclusive community.

Contact Our Team with Any Questions