A nonprofit is opening a pop-up shop this week in Fairfield.

Doreen Caruso started The Pilot House 11 years ago. Its purpose is to provide people with autism and other special needs the means and support to grow and be as independent as possible.

Part of that is the "Yes We Can" program, which offers them employment opportunities. Under it, they take classes that include baking, painting and photography, where they learn life skills.

They're now selling the things they create at a pop-up shop Friday evening. Items for sale include dog treats, holiday cards with their artwork on them, candles and bath soaps.

Caruso says many of the people involved may have struggled in school, but The Pilot House has opened up a whole new world for them.

"It's always been the mission of Pilot House to take them from when they were young and give them the skills to carry forward into their adulthood," Caruso says.

The pop-shop is open Friday from 7-9 p.m. at The Pilot House facility on Colony Street. Caruso says it's also a chance for people to learn more about the nonprofit and meet those who are involved.