Small Business Spotlight: Collettey’s Cookies
Credit: Collettey’s Cookies
Collettey’s Cookies is about so much more than incredible cookies — it’s a story of resilience, purpose, and creating opportunities for others. What began as Collette Divitto’s passion for baking grew into a nationally recognized business and advocacy movement dedicated to empowering people with disabilities and neurodiverse individuals through meaningful employment and leadership programs. In this interview, Collette and Operations Manager Rosemary Alfredo share the heart behind the company, the journey from “The Amazing Cookie” to a mission-driven organization, and the powerful message of hope and self-discovery that continues to inspire people across Massachusetts and beyond.
Life in Mass (LIM): For readers discovering your organization for the first time, how would you describe the heart behind what you do?
Collettey’s Cookies (CC): I have been known for my delicious cookies, which has been my passion, and hobby for years before I started the company, but after going through so much rejection in trying to get a meaningful job and experiencing such pain because of it, my heart lies in building my company as big as I can and creating jobs for other neurodiverse so they don’t experience what I experienced.
LIM: The story behind Collettey’s Cookies and Collettey’s Leadership program has inspired so many people. What moment made you realize this business could become something much bigger than cookies?
CC: Well I am still reminded of that. I receive so many emails from other individuals like me and also parents, teachers, coaches and doctors. These emails began t come in like crazy after my story went viral. I still get so many everyday, and many are asking for the same advice. So, I used to have a monthly zoom that anyone could join just to chat to some of these people writing to me. I really wanted to answer everyone but it was not possible. That is when my Mom and I decided to make webinars on the commonly asked questions. From there we just kept advocating for employment, independence and entrepreneurship.
LIM: “The Amazing Cookie” has become such a signature product — what’s the story behind creating that recipe and naming it?
CC: The story – I made cookies all the time and tried out different ideas for recipes. My family and I went skiing and on day I did not want to go, so I asked my Mom to get me some ingredients before they left. That same day I made up this recipe and went they got home I gave the cookies to them. They went crazy and said I needed to write down the recipe. From then I brought cookies everywhere we went, visiting family or friends, tailgates, events and when someone one tried them they always said (and still do) these are AMAZING!
LIM: Your mission goes far beyond baking. Why has creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities become such an important focus for your company? Because I experienced rejection over and over, even though I went away to school for my college and lived on my own. It depressed me bad enough to think that people just assumed I was DIS-abled and did not consider I had abilities. I did not want others to experience that.
CC: What has it meant to build this business right here in Massachusetts and be part of the local community? Massachusetts not only welcomed me but made such efforts to get to know me and support me. As soon as my story went viral on social media, I had all the local news stations and newspapers calling me along with the Mayor Marty Walsh and President of The New England Council James Brett. I was invited to the Capitol, and Women’s Leadership Events as the honoree. I had so many interests for partnerships and collaborations from organizations.
LIM: You’ve grown from a small idea into a nationally recognized brand. What have been some of the most meaningful milestones along the journey so far?
Credit: Collettey’s Cookies
CC: I would say now when someone wants information about the company or the cookies they ask me. Before they asked who they could talk to that could answer their questions. Also, I decided to write a series of books on different times in my life, the challenges, and how I worked through them positively. I have published 3 so far and have 3 more to go. I am very proud of them and wish they bring hope to others. I have also represented my community at several Capitols, including Washington. My current life of living on my own with no support and running my company was filmed last year 2025 and the Academy of Arts chose it for an Oscar. That was a happy moment – knowing my hard work, and resilience could be an inspiration for others. It wasn’t always easy, and I had no real stories to bring me hope. So, I am very happy I can do that for others.
LIM: What do you hope people understand about the talents and abilities of individuals with disabilities after learning your story?
CC: Great question. EVERYONE has abilities. Just because there is a “disability” label does not mean there are no abilities. We all have gifts and talents and should be able to be recognized and of value. People need to slow down, be patient and not in such a rush all the time. Give this community the opportunity to show you.
LIM: What are some of the most rewarding moments you’ve experienced while mentoring or working with others through Collettey’s Leadership Programs?
CC: I have had so many people thanking me for believing in them and helping them. That is the most rewarding thing to me. Some have told me I love you and would not know where I would be without our support.
LIM: Running a mission-driven business can be challenging. What keeps you motivated on difficult days?
CC: It gets very busy! I also have a podcast and travel to speaking events. Honestly between all that and my two companies my life is very busy. I stay on track with Prayer every morning, meditation at night, daily work outs and inspiring podcast, like Tony Robbins and Jay Shetty. Also, I should say I have an incredible support system – my mom. She is the hardest worker I know and she taught me how to be strong and stay balanced.
LIM: Collette, you’ve become a powerful advocate and speaker across the country. What message do you most hope audiences take away from your talks?
CC: Hope, Resilience, Staying Positive, Celebrate your differences, and believing that no matter who you are – you can make a difference in this world.
LIM: How have customers and the community helped shape the growth of the business over the years?
CC: By sharing my story really, ordering cookies, buying subscriptions, some companies order in bulk for events, markets place big orders from my warehouse. Most people understand that the sales of my cookie company allow me to create jobs and mentorships. My cookie company donates to my leadership nonprofit.
Credit: Collettey’s Cookies
LIM: What does success look like for you today and has that definition changed since the beginning?
CC: Good question. I am not sure I know the answer. I don’t consider myself a success quite yet. That might sound crazy but I still feel like there are plenty of struggles out there. Every day, I am working so hard to keep the business growing. Maybe the day I worry a little bit less will be the day I start to feel successful. It could be the day I partner with a much bigger company that takes my cookie company to a whole another level and I can focus more on this 82% unemployment rate for people with neurodiversity. When I can use my voice and story to create a pathway that creates hundreds of jobs across the US. Then I think I am successful.
LIM: Are there any exciting projects, partnerships, or future goals you’re especially excited about right now?
CC: Yes – always! I am working with Able Americans in developing short films for advancing the lives of people with disabilities. That is super important to me. I am also in the process of considering a documentary of my whole life – that can be shared at schools, universities, healthcare events, film festivals, corporations and disability organizations. This film I hope helps to destigmatize and open up the conversation for the need for new support and policy from Washington.
LIM: Finally, what would you say to someone with a dream who may be doubting themselves or facing rejection right now?
CC: I would say – I did too for many years. My advice would be to really get to know yourself and what makes you feel good. Focus on that to stay positive. Take up something that makes you feel strong – for me it has been Self Defense Classes and working out. Build your confidence – Listen to podcasts that help and understand there will always be people that see you differently. That’s ok – what matters is you being proud of you, and you loving who you are. So focus on what I call “self discovery’!
From creating jobs and mentorship opportunities to speaking on stages across the country, Collette’s journey is a reminder that success is not just about building a business: it’s about making a difference in the lives of others. Her honesty, determination, and passion for advocacy shine through in every answer, offering encouragement to anyone facing rejection or self-doubt. We’re grateful to Collette for sharing her story and for the work she does to create a more inclusive and empowering future for so many.
Collettey’s Cookies
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