Donut shop in Mooresville employs eight staff with disabilities

Down for Doughnuts in Mooresville currently employs eight individuals with disabilities. The shop operates at 880 E. Iredell Ave. and serves as the primary vehicle for a mission established by the Cooper family to create inclusive work opportunities.

David Cooper, a former career banker, launched the business in 2020 with his wife, Lisa. The venture began when their son, Zach, who was born in 1989 with Down syndrome, a cleft palate, congenital cataracts, and hearing issues, expressed a desire to work with his father. Lisa Cooper recalled that Zach wanted to go to work with his dad when he was young, a goal that became a business plan after he specifically asked to own a donut shop.

The timing of the opening proved challenging, as the shop launched just as the pandemic began. David Cooper noted that the decision to open was also driven by Zach’s high school requirements. Zach attended Mooresville High School and needed to complete an Occupational Course of Study degree to graduate with a diploma. That degree required work hours, which Cooper said were difficult to secure elsewhere. He found support from a friend at a local Food Lion and staff at Johnny Brusco’s on the Lake, but the new shop allowed Zach to gain experience on his own terms.

Transitioning from banking to the donut industry required a learning curve for the Coopers. David Cooper stated that the shop distinguishes itself by making doughnuts fresh every day and offering custom flavors. Unsold inventory is donated to local organizations, including a soup kitchen and groups assisting unsheltered individuals. Cooper emphasized that customers can customize their orders in ways he believes are not available at other local establishments.

Zach, the oldest of the Cooper’s children, holds a specific role at the shop. He sits at the cash register to interact with customers. His favorite flavor is maple bacon, and he recently created a special doughnut called the Elvis. That product is a Bavarian cream-filled doughnut with peanut butter icing and bacon toppings.

The business is supported by the Down for Doughnuts Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established to fund the shop and other local businesses that hire individuals with special needs. The foundation accepts one-time and monthly tax-deductible donations to promote personal value and an inclusive work setting. The Coopers use the foundation to support other employers in the community who share the goal of providing dignity to their staff.

Down for Doughnuts is open Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon. The shop offers catering, custom cakes, and cupcakes. Additional information is available at downfordoughnuts.com or by calling 980-444-2660.