Peg Botto

Peg began her career working in group homes while attending MCCC, then transferred to the University of West Florida to continue pursuing a degree in Business Management. She later earned her QIDP certification and continued working in group homes after graduation. After returning to Philadelphia, Peg advanced into a Director role, continuing her commitment to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. During this period, she also attended The Restaurant School part time.

Peg’s entrepreneurial journey began when she started participating in outdoor events, offering healthy alternatives to traditional festival food. In 2000, she founded Cosmic Catering LLC and opened a stand at the Chestnut Hill Farmers Market. There, she began a partnership with Philabundance and created employment opportunities by hiring people to work with her at the stand.

In 2011, Peg was awarded the bid for the Café at Lloyd Hall, where she built strong relationships with SPIN, PEP, and many other organizations that support people with developmental disabilities. In 2018, she established The Cosmic Foundation to further support the work being done at the Café. Her mission gained wider attention in 2023 when she was interviewed by Cherri Greg at WHYY, helping spread the word about employment opportunities at the café. Over the years, Peg has received numerous awards in recognition of her dedication to hiring and training people with developmental disabilities.