Debra and Reed Pennington Recognized for Advancing Autism Awareness And Creating Opportunity for Adults with Disabilities
Spanish Fort, Ala. (March 18, 2026) — Bake Blue founders Debra and Reed Pennington will be honored at the 7th Annual Mobile Community Health Leadership Awards hosted by the Mobile Medical Museum on Saturday, May 16
The annual awards recognize local leaders making a difference through education, awareness, and action surrounding some of the community’s most important health issues. Debra and Reed Pennington are being recognized for the mission behind Bake Blue, a bakery rooted in autism awareness and a vision for greater opportunity 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.” (photo: Dr. Daryn Glassbrook, Mobile Medical Museum Executive Director)
At Bake Blue, every recipe tells a story. What began as a mother and son in the kitchen has grown into a larger purpose: building a bakery where adults with disabilities can find meaningful work, belonging, and a place to shine. The name Bake Blue carries special meaning. Blue represents autism awareness, while the great blue heron symbolizes patience, resilience, and wisdom — qualities that reflect the spirit behind the bakery’s journey. Like the heron, Bake Blue stands for independence, strength, and the belief that every person deserves the chance to thrive.
For many families touched by autism, the path into adulthood can feel uncertain and isolating. Too often, capable young adults are limited by opportunities that do not reflect their true gifts and potential. Bake Blue was created to help change that story by focusing not just on limitations, but on ability, growth, and purpose.
“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.”
With every homemade batch, Bake Blue is working to build more than a business. The bakery is helping create a future filled with opportunity, encouragement, and community for adults with disabilities and the families who love them.
The awards will be presented during a catered reception at the Strada Patient Care Center located at 106 Center Street in Mobile on Saturday, May 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tickets are $35 for individuals or $200 for a table of six. Visit www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org for more information.