This Pizza Joint Employs Special Needs Staff But Some People Are Afraid To Go In And Refer To The Workers As 'Retards'
Pizzability in Denver is a pizza joint with a difference: it is completely staffed by individuals with disabilities. It was founded by Tiffany Fixter, a former special needs education teacher who saw a niche in the community for jobs and training for adults with mental and physical disabilities.
Image credits: Tori Mason
The small business, located in the Cherry Creek area, has a great concept and location but is struggling to survive in a world of massive restaurant chains with a convenient and super speedy delivery service.
“Everybody on my staff has an intellectual, developmental or mental disability,” Fixter told Denver 7 news. “We have people that are blind and deaf. They have autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy.”
Even though the restaurant, that’s all about inclusiveness, has a big impact on the local community, business is business, and Pizzability needs to fight to make ends meet. “People think we’re really successful, and that’s great,” Fixter said. “But I don’t know if we’re going to make it.”
The attitudes of some rude people certainly don’t help matters, as highlighted by local journalist Tori Mason. The CBS4 Denver reporter was “ heartbroken and disgusted” to find that people have been heard saying, “that’s where the retards work,” and hanging around outside, afraid to come in.
Image credits: Tori Mason
What a crappy attitude towards a place that is promoting an inclusive society and welcoming to everyone, giving disadvantaged people – who might otherwise be overlooked in the labor market – the chance to earn a dignified living in a great environment!
Image credits: Pizzability
Pizzability follows another of Fixter’s businesses, Brewability Lab. Brewability employs six beertenders, and since most can’t read, the day’s selections are designated a color, both on the taps and on the menu. “I wanted something where they could feel purposeful,” Fixter told craftbeer.com.
The craft beer brewery opened in October 2016, and some of its beers can be tasted on tap at Pizzability. Craft beer and great pizza? What more could you ask for!
Image credits: Pizzability
The reviews for Pizzability are flawless, 5 stars all round. “Amazing food! Huge slices with tons of flavor! The staff are incredible, so genuine and helpful, makes you feel very comfortable!!!” Is the latest example.
“You won’t find better customer service at any other restaurant out there! 10/10 would recommend to anyone who lives near or visits Denver! You can’t miss out on this gem!”
Image credits: Pizzability
So what are you waiting for, Denverites? Delicious pizza, tasty beers, friendly staff and a small business that makes a huge difference to the local community. Go get yourself a slice or 2!
Image credits: Tori Mason
Here’s what people had to say about the inclusive and open-hearted restaurant
People also went to facebook to share their recommendations:
Not saying this to troll. Honest question: if Donald Trump and a child molester and a nazi made your pizza, would you care?
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Not saying this to troll. Honest question: if Donald Trump and a child molester and a nazi made your pizza, would you care?
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