A group of students work a stand selling freshly made sweet treats, including baked cookies so delectable that you wouldn’t even guess that they were gluten-free. 

This stand is run by the nonprofit organization Beating Celiac, founded by Northwood senior Amara Rydwell, that raises funds for individuals with Celiac disease, which causes digestive illness when consuming gluten. They fundraise by selling homemade sweets made with three key ingredients: gluten-free flour, chocolate and good will.

“Throughout my childhood, I was always jealous of my friends because I was always stuck with a sad lump of salad over a pizza because of my gluten allergy,” Rydwell said. “I hope this organization can help those with gluten adversities have a more positive experience with gluten-free diets.”

Beating Celiac was founded in June 2023 because Rydwell noticed that there was a general negative stigma and apprehension surrounding gluten-free foods, making them harder to access for those who are gluten intolerant.

Often, it’s difficult to find gluten-free foods that are comparable alternatives to foods with gluten.

“The food I ate was replaced by gluten-free alternatives, which at first was comparable to saw dust,” said senior David Gima, who is gluten intolerant. “I began to lose weight because I couldn’t eat the snacks and treats I used to enjoy.”

To make their gluten-free food more accessible, the organization sells food at cheap prices, like $2 for each cookie or $5 for a stick of strawberry and grape tanghulu.

“I like when we get together and we make food because it’s always a really fun bonding experience,” events coordinator senior Unna Hotchkiss said. “I’m really proud of all the funds we’ve raised so far. In the beginning, we never expected the bake sales to be so successful.”

Along with raising money for organizations that support individuals with Celiac’s disease, they hope to host workshops that teach others how to make delicious gluten-free treats and teach their customers about gluten intolerance.  

As a result of their efforts in selling baked goods and spreading awareness, Beating Celiac has helped the students of Northwood who have gluten intolerance feel more represented and gratified.

“Seeing my peers take the initiative to support this community instills a sense of pride and hope within me,” Gima said. “I feel represented, and now that I know people want to make a change, I have no doubt that it will happen.”

If you’re interested in trying a taste of their sweet gluten-free pastries, keep up with news of their upcoming bake sale events on their Instagram @beatingceliac.

“I would like to use us as a platform to spread awareness about this disease and connect with people in this community who struggle with gluten sensitivities,” Rydwell said.