Baking Opportunities and Community in Naperville
At Moose & Me Baking Company, baking is about more than just cookies and cakes — it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence and fostering a sense of belonging.
Founders Megan and Justin Elder launched the inclusive bakery with a heartfelt mission inspired by their daughter, Mila, affectionately nicknamed “Moose.” What began as a shared love of baking at home grew into a vision — and a space — where adults of all abilities could learn new skills, contribute meaningfully and thrive in a supportive environment.
Moose & Me was created to address a gap many families face: limited opportunities for adults with disabilities after they leave the school system. “We wanted to build a place where individuals could feel successful, purposeful, and part of their community,” Megan shares.
Today, that vision is a reality. Employees at Moose & Me take part in every step of the baking process — from rolling dough and cutting shapes to measuring ingredients, operating mixers and adding personal touches like handwritten notes for customers. Each task helps build skills and confidence while creating delicious baked goods that bring joy to the community.
Behind the scenes, one essential ingredient keeps everything running smoothly: reliable energy. Natural gas plays a critical role in fueling the bakery’s oven — the heart of the operation. From cookies and brownies to cakes, every product depends on consistent, dependable heat.
“Having natural gas is incredibly important to our business,” says Megan. “We rely on it every day to meet customer demand. Knowing it’s dependable allows us to plan, prepare and deliver for our customers.”
Since opening, Moose & Me has grown from just two employees to a team of fourteen — each new hire representing another opportunity created and another life impacted. For Megan, those moments of growth are the most rewarding.
Looking ahead, the goal is simple: to become a beloved staple in the Naperville community — a place where customers not only enjoy fresh baked goods, but also connect with employees, support an inclusive mission and leave feeling like they’ve made a difference.
At Moose & Me Baking Company, every purchase supports more than a small business — it helps create a more inclusive, joyful community for all.