While sweet aromas of warm cinnamon rolls and freshly baked muffins blend perfectly in the air at Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery & Coffee Bar, the true heart of this beloved Medicine Park bakery is its owner, Dianne Chadwick.
The bakery’s selection of donuts, cinnamon rolls, muffins, fritters and even rare honey from Resurrection Mountain bees is always in high demand. And guests rave about the mouthwatering cinnamon rolls, calling them “the best ever” and “big enough for two to share.”
But beyond the pastries, Chadwick, whose mission goes far beyond baking, is committed to providing jobs and a loving work environment for adults with developmental disabilities.
“Two little boys with autism changed our whole world,” Chadwick said. “Like many parents, [Russell and I] wanted to create a job with a loving environment for our sons and their peers. And here we are.”
Now, more than a decade later, their two sons have successfully navigated high school and are living productive, happy lives. And Chadwick hasn’t slowed down. She’s weathered every challenge life has thrown her way with grit and grace.
Inspired by her own experience raising children with special needs, Chadwick serves as a beacon of hope for parents who face similar challenges. She welcomes everyone with open arms, unafraid to share hugs or tears, creating a space where love and support rise as surely as the bakery’s dough.
Word of mouth plays a powerful role in bringing employees to Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery, a true testament to its deep roots within the community.
Outside the bakery, Chadwick extends her commitment to the community by serving on an advisory committee at Great Plains Technology Center, passionately advocating for trade schools, recognizing their vital importance in providing high-functioning students with special needs the specialized training they need to thrive.
She often reflects on the profound impact her employees have had on her life.
“I have learned more from my employees than I could ever teach them,” she said with heartfelt gratitude. Their resilience, kindness and strength have shaped not only her bakery, but her outlook on life.
Her biggest heartache, Chadwick said, comes from watching former employees’ health decline, but she carries countless bittersweet stories — some bring laughter; others bring tears. Through it all, she remains a pillar of strength and hope in the community she’s helped build.
Chadwick credits the unwavering support of her family as well as Medicine Park and surrounding communities for the success of her business, the overall growth of her sons as well as her other special needs employees. “It truly takes a village,” Chadwick said. “And I am so thankful to be part of one that lifts each other up.”
Now, with their sons thriving in their adult life and her bakery serving as a beacon of hope and inclusion, Chadwick’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that love, community and perseverance can create extraordinary change.
While the allure of company growth has certainly crossed her mind, Chadwick’s heart remains firmly planted in Medicine Park. 'We have thought about expanding through the years,' she admitted. But for her, the deep affection and connection to the community outweigh the call of expansion, solidifying Mrs. Chadwick's Bakery & Coffee Bar as an enduring and beloved local fixture.
The bakery is more than just a place for delicious treats — it’s a testament to resilience, love and the power of a village working together. For locals and visitors alike, Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery is a cornerstone of community, compassion and hope.
Located at 161 E. Lake Drive in Medicine Park, Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery & Coffee Bar is open Wednesday-Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-6 and Sunday 11-5.
For more details, visit mrschadwicksbakery.net or find them on Facebook.