MICHAEL PLATT – P.L.L.A.T.E. / MICHAELS DESSERTS

Michael Platt created Michaels Desserts to use his love of baking to help others. For every sweet treat he sells, he donates one to someone in need. He also founded P.L.L.A.T.E. – Power, Love, Learning, and Access To Everyone – to address food insecurity. Through P.L.L.A.T.E., he has distributed thousands of healthy non-perishable snacks to underserved kids. As a GivingTuesday Spark leader, he encourages donations to nonprofits that combat hunger and other needs on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving each year.

Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 9 and advised to cut back his involvement in sports, Michael decided to pursue his passion for cooking and baking. He began his business as an 11-year-old and resolved to use it as a way to help others. He started small, baking cupcakes and delivering them to kids at domestic violence shelters. “My dad tells me to do what I love in service to others,” says Michael. “That’s why I chose to use Michaels Desserts to help people – to support them with their basic needs so they can pursue what they love to do and make a difference with it.”

Michael was a 2021 Winner of the Barron Prize.

Discussion Questions

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IYH Behind the Scenes

We were able to film Michael during his Giving Tuesday events which was so fun! And we were treated to some beautiful weather, perfect for shooting outside.