Hundreds of people turned out in Pleasantville to support the “hard hat” opening of Spectrum Designs, which employs adults with autism to make custom clothes, gourmet treats and promotional items for clients.

The Long Island-based company is yet to open, as it will officially be opening its doors in April at 199 Tompkins Road. Yet many locals are happy to see Spectrum Designs come to Westchester, including Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

“The fact that what you’re doing is reaching out those who are developmentally disabled, giving them not just an opportunity for employment but an opportunity to have a full life is really an amazing accomplishment,” Latimer said.

For 27-year-old Bradley Jacobs, finding a job was never an easy feat, as he has lived with a developmental disability his whole life. “I’ve been waiting for this opportunity ever since I visited Long Island,” he said.

“It has been impossible for him to find employment,” Bradley's mother, Elizabeth Jacobs, said. “It’s been frustrating because he wants to have a purposeful employment.”

The company is looking to employ 20 people throughout the first year, including nine people from the founding families. Until its opening, Spectrum Designs will be undergoing construction and training future employees. As for Bradley Jacobs, he aims to be an influence.

“It’s really more of an importance in the world to understand that we are going to make a huge difference," he says.