About Us
Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much. Helen Keller
Puzzled Paws was inspired by our daughter, McKenzie.
Puzzled Paws is a Non Profit 501c3 dedicated to training, educating, and employing autistic adults and improving the lives of the autistic community. In order to prepare the team for the world of work in a real environment, the organization produces high quality, human grade pet treats and specialty items in their very first bakery. We decided to also add a retail element to meet the needs of all our clients, friends, family and community.
This year, Puzzled Paws will launch a student volunteer program to educate the world on being strong allies to the autism community. Currently over 20,000 volunteers are advocating for autism acceptance in over 40 countries.
It's Me - McKenzie!
McKenzie, a deaf and autistic young lady, is the inspiration behind Puzzled Paws. From the time she was able to help in the kitchen -- she was helping in the kitchen! From pancakes to Thanksgiving dinner, she loved working with the mixers, measuring and hand stirring was a favorite. She is a tiny girl, with some vision challenges. It is easier for her to be one-on-one with her cooking tasks. At times, it was a challenge, but she has overcome so much. We are very proud to have this be her legacy.
Kenzie attends a local Jupiter High School and loves to paint, cook, ride bikes, swim, shop and of course - boating to float in the waves.
Kenzie attends additional activities such a golf, yoga, tennis and fitness at the Els' Foundation of Excellence. Even with a busy social life, she has been working hard for her new adventure after high school.
Julie Webster
Julie, a co-founder of Puzzled Paws, is based in Florida with her husband, McKenzie's siblings, and four grandchildren. Julie's previous paralegal experience was primarily in private equity focused on entertainment, corporate and health club law.
If you know her, you know her favorite title is affectionately known as "Mommy", which inspired the creation of this non-profit organization.
Their children each have a roll in Puzzled Paws. McKenzie's sister, Katie, is not only the author of "It's Me McKenzie!" but also a valued member of the Advisory Board. McKenzie's brother, Jake, is a junior in high school and plays a crucial role helping his parents in the day-to-day operations and community service virtual program.
Julie is now devoted full-time to empowering autistic young adults like McKenzie through Puzzled Paws. Her ultimate goal is to establish a second non-profit dedicated to innovating shared living options for autistic individuals who wish to live together. It's paramount that we continue our work to ensure that the narrative of happiness, success, and fulfillment in life is shaped by autistic individuals themselves.
David Webster
David is a co-founders of Puzzled Paws and plays the crucial role of "Daddy". He is a General Contractor and owner of Construction Trade Partners.
If you know David, you know an honest and laid back man, who loves to golf, is a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan with a love of cars, motorcycles to fill his need for speed!
Through his nonprofit work and future community housing initiatives, David combines his knowledge and compassion. David has consistently supported and provided opportunities to help Kenzie achieve her hopes and dreams throughout her entire life.
David is enthusiastic about creating better opportunities for our autistic community.
Reva & Zora
Meet Reva and Zora, our delightful tasting experts who head up the Tasting Division! They are highly trained in savoring large treats, small treats, and the fine art of begging. Reva has dedicated 10 years to perfecting her skills, while Zora, with 4 years of experience, brings a more refined palate to the table.
