What started as a small operation in Port Washington in 2011 has grown into a nonprofit organization with more than 100 employees across three locations, including a newly opened facility in Hackensack, New Jersey.

Spectrum Designs, which creates custom clothing, promotional products and other merchandise while providing employment opportunities for people on the autism spectrum, celebrated the opening of its third production facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week. The Hackensack location marks the organization’s first expansion outside New York and represents another step in the growth of a company whose roots remain firmly planted in Port Washington.

“Spectrum Designs was founded on a simple idea: that individuals on the autism spectrum deserve the same opportunity to contribute, grow, and thrive as anyone else,” said Patrick Bardsley, co-founder and CEO of Spectrum Designs. “In the years to come, the best thing to come out of this building will not be the amazing products we will make. It will be the difference we will make and the lives we will make better.”

Spectrum Designs was founded locally in 2011 with the goal of creating meaningful employment opportunities for people on the autism spectrum. From its early days operating out of a backyard barn with a handful of employees, the organization has expanded to three production facilities in New York and New Jersey. Today, more than 70% of Spectrum Designs’ employees are on the autism spectrum.

The organization provides screen printing, embroidery, direct-to-film printing, promotional products, webstores, kitting and fulfillment services for businesses, nonprofits, schools and other organizations. Its customers range from local community groups to national brands. The business model combines commercial production with individualized workplace support, training and opportunities for career advancement.

For Spectrum employees, the work can also provide a greater sense of confidence and belonging.