Grandmother and Grandson Duo Bake Cookies to Support Meaningful Inclusion in Prince George
Laurie Dreher has always called Prince George home. Born and raised in the northern B.C. city, she recently retired, but her next chapter was anything but quiet.
Initially driven by a desire to stay active in the community, Laurie launched a mobile cookie shop called Joel’s Gourmet Cookies.
But this wasn’t a solo venture. Laurie’s 17-year-old grandson, Joel, who is on the autism spectrum, became her business partner and the inspiration behind the name.
“It was created not just to serve delicious gourmet cookies, but to provide Joel with a supportive and meaningful work environment tailored to his strengths and help him build financial independence,” said Laurie.
Their mission quickly expanded. When they learned that the Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN) Spoke in Prince George was raising money for an inclusive playground, they stepped in to help. Selling cookies at community events, they began donating proceeds to support the cause.
“I saw an opportunity to use cookie sales as a platform for good,” said Laurie. “It’s a way of giving back while doing something I love: baking and spending time with my grandson.”
Supporting the autistic community has long been part of the Dreher family’s story. When the PAFN hub-and-spoke model was announced in 2014, Joel’s parents, Jordan and Jason Oliver, led efforts to establish the Prince George Spoke. Laurie has been actively involved ever since.
Since launching the business, community support has been more than Laurie imagined.
“The Prince George community has been welcoming and supportive,” she said. “On sunny days, we often sell out completely.”
What started as a simple trailer has become a staple at local events, growing both their customer base and community impact.
“We are now being regularly invited to community events, which has helped grow our business presence and also raise awareness for autism-friendly entrepreneurship and the inclusive playground.”
And while the playground will feature accessible surfaces, sensory-friendly zones, and secure fencing, Laurie believes its true value goes far beyond the equipment.
“Inclusivity and accessibility are core values of our cookie venture,” Laurie said. “The goal is to create a space where neurodiverse children and their families feel truly seen, supported, and included.”
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