BOARD OF DIRECTORS
We warmly welcome you on behalf of the Unique Sweets Board of Directors. We are proud to guide an organization that champions the empowerment of individuals living with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities. Our mission is to cultivate an environment where every person has the opportunity to gain valuable job skills, foster social interactions, and expand their capabilities across personal, community, and professional spheres. Our shared passion drives us to enhance the inclusivity and impact of our initiatives continually.
As stewards of Unique Sweets, we facilitate dynamic, enriching activities such as baking events, virtual cooking classes, and social outings, providing a perfect blend of learning, creativity, and socialization. Through our peer support groups, we’re helping to build a vibrant community where individuals can form lasting relationships and grow in independence. We are steadfastly committed to aiding in the transformation of our participants’ lives, helping them achieve their employment aspirations, and unveiling their unique potentials. We stand united in our belief that each person, irrespective of their differences, possesses the potential to make remarkable contributions to society.
LIZA PEREIRA
Liza Pereira Curiel’s journey with autism began in 1999, when her young son was diagnosed. As he grew older, she began thinking about his future and the opportunities that would be available to him as an adult.
That concern inspired Liza to start Unique Sweets from her home, using baking as a way for her son to practice communication, independence, responsibility, and workplace skills. What began with cupcakes and pastries soon grew to include other autistic young adults and their families.
In 2021, Liza helped transform that small idea into Unique Sweets, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for autistic adults to build skills, friendships, confidence, and a greater sense of belonging.
For Liza, Unique Sweets has always been about more than baking. It is about creating a community where autistic adults have opportunities to participate, contribute, and be valued for who they are and what they bring to the table.
CHARLES STRECKER
Charles Strecker was born in Chicago, Illinois, in the June of 1998. He started at Unique Sweets as a participant and quickly moved to host its cooking class series before eventually joining the board as participant advocate and liaison. He is a classically trained opera singer who works as a CNC operator while finishing his political science degree.
YADIRA CALDERON
Yadira has been eating, breathing, sleeping, challenging, and accepting autism since 2011. She is a dedicated warrior, advocate, and author.
She holds an M.A. in International Relations and Diplomacy, speaks three languages, has lived in six countries, and has traveled to another twenty-seven. Many experiences and newly discovered ones prepared her to become the mother of Thomais.
Yadira has worked as Editor for Trade Publications – Food industry; Logistics- Cement Industry; Part-time Professor in China; Teacher Assistant supporting kids, and adults with developmental disabilities. Presently, she works with foster care youth and supports various organizations in Middle Tennessee.