Sweet Savory and Special was co-founded by Lillian Calahan Klein and her mom, Rebecca Calahan Klein in 2026.

Lillian is a culinary artist, an entrepreneur and a Special Olympics athlete, Health Messenger and Athlete Leader. She created Sweet Savory and Special because she loves making beautiful food and creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to work in the hospitality industry. She is a dedicated Special Olympian who swims and plays soccer. She deeply appreciates the opportunities to compete in sports, enhance health and develop leadership skills that Special Olympics provides in Northern California and in communities across America and the world. 

Rebecca is a long-time social entrepreneur, who helps build companies and non-profit organizations that help build a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable world. She loves making and sharing food that celebrates the beauty and diversity of communities, local farms and ecosystems found in Northern California. She enjoys hiking, long-distance walking, reading, and volunteering.