Published October 27, 2021
Coffee For A Cause
Fall is in the air, and whether you are in the percentage of people who cannot wait for cooler temps, or are on the other side of the spectrum, these next few companies have something for you! Also, who cannot support a cause bigger than themselves to support inclusivity, diversity, hot coffee, iced coffee, tea, treats and even cool merch and even COOLER individuals?
We are going to spotlight five awesome companies who are making a name for themselves and providing opportunity to those who might not regularly find it. The Population with Disabilities (PWD) in the U.S. is largely underserved. About 82% are unemployed. The companies we would like to highlight are:
This is not to say that there are not more companies furthering this important work, but these companies have locations here in NC and in proximity to Raleigh. So enjoy the next few paragraphs and, better yet, check these places out in person or online!
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee, was originally opened in Wilmington NC in 2016 by the Wright Family. The Wrights are advocates for the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The original store has now expanded to include over 20 locations which span across many states. Ensure to check out their shop on their website to check out everything Bitty & Beau’s has to offer.
Next we check out 321 Coffee. This one is near and dear to my heart, as my brother works there. The company was founded in 2017 by Lindsay Wrege and Michael Evans. They were students at NC State (Go Wolfpack!) and had a vision to start a company that was based on and stood for inclusivity. You can find 321 Coffee at the NC State Farmers Market or you can order their coffee and merch online as well. The hours at the Farmers Market are Wednesday-Friday, 10- 2, Saturday 9-4 and Sunday 9:30-3. They have big things in the works so keep an eye out for them!
On to Gabi’s Grounds. “Gabi’s Grounds’ mission is to EMPOWER the SPECIAL ABILITIES COMMUNITY to find their place in the world and ENJOY FULFILMENT in everything they do”. Gabi’s has a space at the Loading Dock, it is an awesome co-working space. Gabi’s not only has coffee but they have merch as well and are also packing and shipping for other companies. This is the epitome of awesome!
Let’s head west a bit and over to Esteamed Coffee. They are located at 114 S. Academy St. in Cary and are open Tuesday-Saturday. Esteamed Coffee exists to connect employees with various disabilities and our community at large, in such a way that the lives of all are enriched through their fellowship in a warm, welcoming environment. Not only will you get a great coffee at Esteamed, you will find art on display for sale which is rotated in and out but all was created by individuals with intellectual disabilities.
A bit further west and we find ourselves in Greensboro at A Special Blend, also known by their tagline “Community In A Cup.” Special Blend aims to serve a great cup of coffee while achieving a greater goal by providing employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They are located 3900 C-W Market St in Greensboro and are open Monday-Friday , 8-6, Saturday 8-6 and Sunday 10-4. Ensure to check out their website to learn more about what A Special Blend has to offer.
Each of these companies aim to bring inclusivity and diversity in the workplace and provide opportunities to those who might not regularly find them. Not only are they providing employment, but they are also providing great coffee and environments which are second to none. Do yourself a favor and check them out and you will be happy that you did.
Andrew Hening
Leads Manager
919.343.0252
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