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Independent Grounds Coffee House

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In the United States 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. As of June 2014, only 16.8% of adult individuals with disabilities were gainfully employed. Independent Grounds Coffee House is determined to improve the chances of employment for individuals with developmental disabilities.

We are designed to be a fully operational coffee shop, with a specific focus on serving as a vocational work-study program. Independent Grounds Coffee House will enroll students with autism in a program that provides a structured training curriculum. This program will cater towards the vocational and social skills required for finding and keeping long-term employment. Students will be required to intern hour and a half shifts several days a week as a part of their high school vocational training. Work training programs will be developed based on the needs of each student.

                On the Job… Employability Skills
- Helping to maintain a clean and orderly work space
- Asking for help in an appropriate way when needed
- Getting to work on time
- Time management
- Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
- Making independent, judgement-based decisions
- Appropriate social interactions with customers, co-  workers, and supervisors
- Handling constructive criticism, specifically during performance evaluations
- Problem solving in a fast paced environment
- Job interview skills How to find and apply for jobs in the community
- Determining most appropriate job environments based on preferences and strengths
- Self advocacy

We are seeking funding to assist in obtaining a space and the necessary equipment needed to operate the coffee shop. Your help is much needed, and we are beyond grateful for any support you can offer.

Please be part of our mission to provide a bright future for a group of individuals who are currently severely under served in our community.

We will be crowd funding for a portion of our start up funding. Here is a list of what your donation will provide:

Brewer                                     $ 2, 000
Coffee Grinder                    $ 1,000
Espresso Machine              $ 10,000
Decaf Espresso Grinder  $  1,200
Reg. Espresso Grinder      $ 1,200
Hot Water Tower                 $ 1,500
Pour Over Stations             $ 700
2 Scales                                     $ 400
Dishwasher                             $ 5,000
Ice Maker                                   $ I4,000
Triple Sink                                 $ 2,000
Grease Trap                             $ 2,000
Chalkboards                            $ 1,000
Thermoses                                $ 3,000
Storage Shelving                    $  2,000
Light Fixtures                          $ 10,000
Office Furniture                     $ 2,000
Office Supplies                        $ 3,000
Counter/ Cabinets                $ 20,000
Tables & Chairs                       $ 10,000
China                                            $ 500
Silverware                                  $ 500
Paper Products                       $ 1,500

All of these items sound mundane, but each will help provide necessary job training for adolescents with autism... and will improve the course of their lives.
If you or someone you know might be interested in getting involved with our program, please reach out to the Independent Grounds Team at www.independentgrounds.org .  

(Please note - Independent Grounds Coffee House is a registered 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible, please message us if you would like a tax receipt mailed after donating. )


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Donations 

  • Eammon W Metz Pineault
    • $50 
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer

Laura Ann
Organizer
Washington D.C., DC

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