A place for smiles, happiness, and joy

Sweet Inspirations is a new and wonderful candy store for all who have a sweet tooth!  Nestled in the heart of Milford, our new store is a “must-visit” experience that offers a wide range of classic chocolates, gourmet gummies, and awesome treats.

Our inspiration

The Aaron Zenus Foundation, a 501(c)(3) approved charitable organization is pleased to announce the opening of our new business venture we call “Sweet Inspirations”.  Sweet Inspirations is a non-profit, retail candy and specialty gift shop that provides vocational and employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  We hope you will visit and see for yourself the thoughtfulness and dedication of our young staff who make sure you have a delightful shopping experience.

The inspiration behind Sweet Inspirations is the memory of Aaron Zenus, a loving, caring, and compassionate young man, who touched the lives of everyone he met.  What separated Aaron from your typical 12-year-old was the tremendous respect and consideration he showed to all individuals, especially to anyone he felt was less fortunate than he.  After a brief illness in early 2019, Aaron was taken from us far too soon.  Through the Aaron Zenus Foundation, we intend to keep his memory alive, and to see to it that his dreams and wishes are fulfilled.

The Aaron Zenus Foundation

As seen on the news!

Boston 25 Fox News (air date Dec 12, 2022)

WBZ News Boston (air date February 13, 2025)

Our store

Sweet Inspirations is a new and wonderful candy store for all who have a sweet tooth.  Nestled in the heart of Milford, Massachusetts, our store is a must-visit experience that offers a wide range of classic chocolates, gourmet gummies, and awesome treats.  You’ll love it here.  And we do too!  Come visit us and enjoy the fun ambiance, helpful staff,  and smiling faces.

Services

Made-To-Order Gift Baskets

We can provide a variety of sweet treats to fill your basket with tasty delights for a special and memorable gift.

Custom Party Favors

Let us design your party favors, tailored for your special occassions providing an extra special touch.

Personalized Tours

Come visit with us and we’ll show you the store, our operation, and our wonderful staff.

our sales staff

Ashley Aldrich

Hi my name is Ashley Aldrich! I love my work at Sweet Inspirations. I also serve on the Board of Directors for the Aaron Zenus Foundation. In addition to my Sweet Inspirations job, I work for Milford Special Olympics as an administrative assistant, and I also work at the Milford High School Café serving lunches.

In my spare time, I play a variety of sports for Milford Special Olympics. In 2019, I was selected as one of twelve athletes to play in the Special Olympics NBA Cares Unified Basketball Game during All-Star Weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2022, I was part of the Special Olympics Massachusetts National Games Team. For fun, I enjoy shooting hoops in my backyard with family and friends.

Wendi Bonina

Hi, my name is Wendi and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I currently attend the Michael Lisnow Respite Center and have been going there for 25 years! It is a day program, so I get to go home every day.

I have many friends at the center, and most of them have been attending as long as I have. One of the things I love most about working at Sweet Inspirations is getting to know great people and making lots of new friends. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my 11 nieces and nephews.

Katie Annis

Hi, my name is Kathleen, but my friends call me Katie. I work at Sweet Inspirations on Saturdays. I have lived my whole life in Milford and attended Milford High School. I love being part of the community and staying busy.

I participate in a variety of Special Olympics teams, enjoy Unified Theater, family support activities, and attending Advocates/HMEA Employment Services in Franklin to learn skills for employment. I do lots of volunteer work and especially enjoy volunteering at the Woonsocket Cat Shelter.

In my spare time, I enjoy exploring open spaces in Massachusetts, playing games on my phone, and spending time with my friends, especially my friend Sophie. I love animals, cooking shows, and hiking.

Zachary Landry

Hi, my name is Zachary Landry, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I enjoy greeting people as they come into the store—it makes me happy.

I am part of Milford Special Olympics and Unified sports, playing basketball, track and field, swimming, cornhole, and bocce. I love going to the Happy Place in Whitinsville once a month to hang out with my friends. I’m also involved in Best Buddies. In my spare time, I enjoy building LEGOs and doing 1,000-piece puzzles.

Joseph Stone

Hi, my name is Joseph Stone, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Tuesdays. I also work two days a week at a go-karting facility. I recently became an advocate not only for myself but for others to better understand their rights. I was asked to be a peer mentor for the Class of 2023 Advocates in Action.

I enjoy participating in many sports for Milford Special Olympics and have competed in two Special Olympics USA Games. I also enjoy coaching young athletes in basketball, which is where my real passion lies. When I am relaxing, I enjoy WWE wrestling, the Power Rangers, and spending time with my family and friends.

Krissy Ferreira

Hello, my name is Krissy Ferreira, and I am the store lead at Sweet Inspirations. I am thrilled to be part of such an inclusive and happy place. I live in Milford with my husband, Tony, and our two children.

I have worked in vocational programming and individual supports for many years and have experience providing comprehensive support and advocacy to individuals facing diverse challenges. I enjoy empowering our staff to grow their skills and promoting teamwork at our sweet shop.

Kelsie Duest

Hello! My name is Kelsie, and I am thrilled to be part of the Sweet Inspirations team every Friday! I am a graduate of Milford High School and a Special Olympics athlete who participates in track, swimming, and basketball. I love to dance and sing and have been part of the Unified Theater program. I also enjoy working at the Blessing Barn Bookstore. When I am relaxing, I enjoy listening to music—especially Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift!

Bobby Pouliot

Hi everyone, my name is Bobby, and I am so happy to be working at Sweet Inspirations on Wednesdays and Fridays. I live at home with my mom, dad, and my dog, Rocco. I have an older brother, Domenic, and a younger brother, Jimmy.

I am a Special Olympics powerlifter and an assistant coach for Special Olympics Unified Flag Football. I recently started taking karate and really enjoy it. I love to sing and act and want to be a movie director one day. In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering in my community as well as a good dance party.

Kevin Leary

My name is Kevin Leary, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Wednesdays. I live in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with my parents, my older sister Kaitlyn, my younger sister Colleen, and my dog, Max. In 2021, I graduated from the Milestones Day Program.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf, swimming, and taking guitar lessons. I also enjoy spending time on Cape Cod with my family in the summer. One of my biggest accomplishments is earning my black belt in karate.

Eduardo Marques

Hi, my name is Eduardo Marques. I work at Sweet Inspirations on Wednesdays. I enjoy learning all the new skills while I am there. In my spare time, I enjoy swimming and bowling with my friends in Special Olympics. For fun, I love going to the beach, kayaking, and playing with my dog, Cooper. I also have a great time watching Disney movies, doing puzzles, and listening to music.

Ryan Cohen

Hello my name is Ryan.  I am a graduate of Framingham State University and I am happy to work at Sweet Inspirations on Wednesdays. I also work at Panera Bread on the weekends. Ryan is very close with his family and lives with his parents; he also has a sister who lives in California. In his spare time, he enjoys playing video games, watching animated shows, and traveling. His favorite vacation destination is Disney World.

Kathleen Loverude

Hi, my name is Kathleen Loverude. I work at Sweet Inspirations on Fridays. In my spare time, I make dog biscuits for Woofin’ Good Treats and play soccer for Special Olympics. I also enjoy volunteering at the Bellingham Senior Center. Spending time with friends, family, and my three cats—Belle, Sheldon, and Annie—is very important to me. Card making is one of my favorite hobbies, and I look forward to creating cards for customers at Sweet Inspirations.

Joe Morrill

Hello, my name is Joe Morrill, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Tuesdays. I also serve on the Board of Directors for Sweet Inspirations. In addition to my work there, I am a Special Olympics athlete who participates in many sports. My two favorites are powerlifting and flag football.

I am a 2018 Special Olympics National Champion, earning two gold and two silver medals in powerlifting. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, working out, and going for walks on the beach.

Paula LeBlanc

Hi, my name is Paula, and I am a job coach at Sweet Inspirations. I am passionate about kindness, inclusion, and creating opportunities for all. Bringing sweet treats and sweeter smiles to our community fills my heart.

By day, I am a Behavioral Assistant at Brookside Elementary School, and at heart, I am a Special Olympics bowling coach. As a Disney enthusiast, I am always chasing the magic—because everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and included.

 

Gilberto Ramirez

Hello, my name is Gilberto, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Fridays and Saturdays. I am a student at Milford High School and participate in the Project SEARCH program at Milford Regional Medical Center. I have a passion for art and love to draw. Working at Sweet Inspirations is a dream come true.

 

Greg Iacovelli

Hi, my name is Greg, and I am a lifelong Milford resident. You can find me at Sweet Inspirations on Thursdays. I am also a proud Milford High School graduate and a very active member of the Milford Lions Club. I am an avid sports fan and enjoy giving back to the community through volunteering.

Jaci Ehrlich

Hi, I am Jaci, and I work at Sweet Inspirations on Wednesdays. I am a proud member of Milford Special Olympics, where I compete year-round in basketball, track, and softball. I am also a volunteer at Milford Regional Medical Center. I am always happy and love offering a bright smile.

Michael Delgado

Hi, my name is Michael Delgado, and I work at Sweet Inspirations every Thursday. I am a graduate of Worcester State University with a degree in Communications and a minor in Computer Science. I enjoy writing, playing video games, and going on walks for exercise. I enjoy learning new things and being part of the Sweet Inspirations team.

Missy Peckham

Hi, my name is Missy, and I am a job coach at Sweet Inspirations. I absolutely love my job and coming to work every day. In my spare time, I am often found in a karate dojo watching my two children, Dylan and Kenzie, in their classes or watching my husband, Al, do jiu-jitsu.

I am a lifelong resident of North Attleboro and adore spending time with my husband, children, and parents—especially my Gigi. I also enjoy crafting and reading during a quiet night at home. Most importantly, I love showing the world the abilities of people who are often seen as disabled.

Our Leadership Team

Joe Morrill

Joe Morrill is an active member of the Sweet Inspirations community, where he works on Tuesdays and serves on the organization’s Board of Directors. He is dedicated to contributing his time and talents to support the mission of creating inclusive and meaningful opportunities for individuals of all abilities.

In addition to his work at Sweet Inspirations, Joe is a committed Special Olympics athlete who competes in multiple sports. His favorite events are powerlifting and flag football. Joe is especially proud of his accomplishments as a 2018 Special Olympics National Champion, where he earned two gold and two silver medals in powerlifting.

Outside of his professional and athletic pursuits, Joe enjoys cooking, staying active through workouts, and spending time walking along the beach. His enthusiasm, determination, and positive spirit make him a valued leader and role model in his community.

Pat Morrill

Pat Morrill is a retired housing professional who dedicated her career to the Milford Housing Authority, where she supported low-income elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and families in securing safe and stable housing.

She is the proud mother of two sons, including her son Joe, who has been an active participant in the Special Olympics program in Milford for over 18 years. Pat is a passionate advocate for enhancing and improving quality of life, working to ensure that individuals of all abilities have the opportunity to live full and meaningful lives.

Now residing in Ogunquit, Maine, Pat and Joe work part-time in property management. In their free time, they share a love of travel and sports, and are on an exciting mission to visit all 30 Major League Baseball ballparks.

Loriann Braza

Being a lifelong Milford resident, I am always looking for new ways to give back to our community. I have been on many boards through the last 25 years. Milford School Parent Teacher Organizations, Milford School Council and Milford After Prom. I am on the Milford Board of Health Board, Black-Tie Coalition and Milford Lions Club. I am the Executive Director for Milford and Mendon Housing Authorities. I am married to my husband David and have three children. I look forward to contributing to the Sweet Inspirations Board to help in any wat to help make a difference.

 

Kemberly Mauricio

A dedicated community leader and advocate known for her commitment in supporting children and families facing significant life challenges. With a heart for service and a voice for change, Kemberly currently serves as a Board Member for Sweet Inspirations, where she helps guide the nonprofit’s mission and ensures that the nonprofit remains a supportive, inclusive environment that empowers its “Sweet Team” to gain real-world skills and professional confidence. Mauricio is the founder of KemforKids, a community-driven initiative dedicated to the simple but powerful goal of “Helping Kids and Teens Have Better Days.” As a Council Member for One Mission, a pediatric cancer charity, Mauricio plays a vital role in the organization’s mission to help kids “do whatever it takes” to get through cancer. Her involvement is deeply hands-on; she has participated in the annual Buzz Off for Kids with Cancer. Off-duty, you can find Kemberly sharing her musical talents as a singer in the acoustic band, Driftwood, proving that harmony—both in music and in the community—is at the center of everything she does.

John Minichello

I was born, raised, and lived in Milford all my life. I am an active volunteer with the Milford Lions Club and enjoy helping people in the Milford community that are in need.  I retired in 2022 after 40 years as a Real Estate broker including 27 years working for Appraisal Management Companies with extensive knowledge in residential property appraisals for banks and financial institutions. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren. I am proud to be asked to be part of the BOD for Sweet Inspirations, it is a great organization which focuses on people with disabilities. Sweet Inspirations is just a great cause to support.

Shelly Sgammato

My name is Michelle (Shelley) Sgammato, I was born and raised in Milford and live here now with my husband Tom.  I am a mother / in law to 2 sons Benjamin (31), his wife Jennie and Devereux (29).

I was a Milford Town Library Youth Services Librarian for 29 years retiring Spring 2023 I loved my job!  It enabled me to serve hundreds of patrons of generationally and ethnically diverse backgrounds from Milford and surrounding towns.  I quickly realized Libraries being defined as boring and dull was a naively stereotypical term.

I am honored to be board member of the Aaron Zenus foundation. I have seen first-hand that this truly is a dedicated group of individuals providing support and assistance to individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they seek to achieve independence, community integration, social growth, and an enhanced quality of life.

Paul Mainati

Born and raised in Milford, I am honored to give back to the community I proudly call home as a member of the Sweet Inspirations team. After graduating from Milford High School, I attended Wesleyan University, where I earned a degree in Economics, and later received my MBA from Babson College.

I recently retired from Trans National Group, where I served as Senior Vice President of Real Estate and Investments. I now look forward to applying the skills and experience I have developed throughout my career to help enhance and expand programs and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

My wife, LuAnn, and I are the proud parents of three children and grandparents to seven grandchildren, whose activities in sports and music keep us actively engaged and inspired. I remain deeply involved in the Milford community, serving as a Town Meeting member and contributing to initiatives such as the Draper Park Renovation Committee, the Veterans Monument Committee, and the Downtown Revitalization Committee. I also serve as a Director at Milford Federal Bank.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Sweet Inspirations and look forward to helping expand the reach and impact of both the store and the Aaron Zenus Foundation throughout Milford and the surrounding communities.

 

Jennifer Walsh

As Co-Founder of the Aaron Zenus Foundation, I am deeply committed to expanding opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. With over 25 years of service to the Town of Milford, I have dedicated my career to fostering inclusive communities through my roles as the Local Program Coordinator for Milford Special Olympics and the Transition and Vocational Coordinator for Milford Public Schools.

As an educator and advocate, I am passionate about empowering individuals of all abilities by providing the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed and thrive. I believe strongly in creating pathways that not only promote independence but also cultivate leadership, confidence, and meaningful community engagement.

My work focuses on increasing access to social, recreational, and vocational programming, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential and become a valued leader within their community.

Joseph Zenus Sr.

Mr. Zenus is a Co-Founder of the Aaron Zenus Foundation. Mr. Zenus has been and remains a strong advocate for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as is the mission of the Foundation… For the past 20 years, Mr. Zenus has and continues to support the local Milford Area Special Olympics programs serving as a coach, volunteer, and chaperone.  Mr. Zenus was also a Co-Founder of the Friends of Milford Area Special Athletes (FOMASA) serving this non-profit as an Officer and Board Member from its’ inception in 2001 until 2019.

A graduate of Northeastern University, Mr. Zenus enjoyed over 40 years of employment serving the Healthcare industry as a supply chain professional, and held many key management positions throughout his career. 

Danielle Zenus

My name is Danielle Zenus and I was born and raised in Grafton, Ma.  I moved to Milford with my wonderful husband Joe Zenus Jr. in 2011. I was lucky enough to be the mother to Aaron Zenus, the face behind Sweet Inspirations for 12 amazing years. We also have our other son Jaxon who is now 11. I have spent the last 20 years working within state agencies such as DDS and with the MFP and ABI waivers.  I am a licensed Social Worker and currently work for UMass Chan Medical School helping families at Dana Farber and Children’s Hospital navigate the healthcare process.  My goal is to continue Aaron’s legacy with community support to provide opportunities in social, vocational, and recreational needs for our individuals with disabilities and their families. 

Come Visit us!

Or Shop Online

19 Central St.

Milford, MA 01757

Sunday & Monday - Closed

Tue, Wed, & Fri - 11:00am -6pm

Thursday - 11:00am - 7pm

Saturday - 10am - 4pm