Bake Blue founders Debra and Reed Pennington will be recognized for their work supporting adults with disabilities at the 7th Annual Mobile Community Health Leadership Awards on Saturday, May 16.

Hosted by the Mobile Medical Museum, the annual event highlights local leaders advancing education, awareness and action around critical community health issues. The Penningtons are being honored for the mission behind Bake Blue, a bakery centered on autism awareness and expanding opportunities for adults with disabilities.

"With Bake Blue, Deborah and Reed Pennington have developed a creative approach to supporting the professional growth and wellbeing of people with autism," says Dr. Daryn Glassbrook, Mobile Medical Museum Executive Director. "When we learned of this new community-minded business, we knew it was a perfect fit for a Mobile Community Health Leadership Award."

Bake Blue began as a simple effort between a mother and son in the kitchen and has since evolved into a broader initiative aimed at creating meaningful employment and a sense of belonging for adults with disabilities. The bakery emphasizes ability, growth and purpose, offering an alternative to the limited opportunities many families encounter as children with autism transition into adulthood.

The bakery’s name reflects its mission. Blue is widely recognized as a symbol of autism awareness, while the great blue heron represents patience, resilience and wisdom — traits the founders say mirror the journey of those they serve. The business promotes independence and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized by the Mobile Medical Museum,” said Debra Pennington, co-founder of Bake Blue. “Bake Blue was born from something very personal to our family, but it has grown into a mission to create opportunity, build confidence, and show what is possible when people are given the chance to use their gifts.”

Through its work, Bake Blue aims to build more than a successful business. The bakery seeks to foster a supportive community while opening doors for adults with disabilities and their families.

The awards will be presented during a catered reception from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Strada Patient Care Center, 106 Center St. in Mobile. Tickets are $35 for individuals or $200 for a table of six. More information is available at www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org.