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Coffee Exchange Expansion Project

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The Coffee Exchange equals community, a place that brings people together. Just like it did with Andy Schlesinger and Kim Outlaw.  For Andy, it started in December 2013, after losing his wife of 26 years he realized that change was inevitable. She always told him to follow his dreams and with that confidence he moved his entire life from Florida to Colorado Springs. He was ready for change and for a good challenge. He had always wanted to feed people and take care of them, and with that in mind he took ownership of The Coffee Exchange.


With every decision Andy made at The Coffee Exchange things improved. More and more people came together to enjoy each other’s company, local coffee and all the deliciousness coming out of the kitchen. Inspired by his Latin American roots and love for cooking, the menu slowly started to evolve. A touch of Cuban culture, a constant increase in usage of local products, and a variety of new items. Each day people continue to come and go, strangers become friends, new memories are made, and new employees are hired. Growth is always happening.
Pursuing the next step of their lives Kim and husband Andrew Outlaw moved from Traverse City Michigan to Colorado Springs. Kim and Andy’s journey together began in March of 2014 Kim Outlaw was hired as a barista. She was unlike the other employees in that from day one she was vested in the shop and its success. Within two months she was Andy’s general manager. She has compassion for her employees and customers and that same desire to take care of others. Kim and Andy may appear to be complete opposites; however, what one lacks the other makes up for. After just a short time they became friends, they began to lean on one another and learn from each other. They divide and conquer all responsibilities, work long hours, and never pull rank. They appreciate their employees and know that without their commitment they never would have made it this far. They never take advantage and they try to always show gratitude. They are the textbook example that hard work does pay off and it is showing in the success of The Coffee Exchange.
Changes for the better began happening almost daily. Kim and Andy were steadily growing together, success was certain with them both behind the same wheel. The Coffee Exchange was outgrowing its space. In 2015, Andy was offered to take over Bella’s Bakery and Cafe and with Kim’s help they jumped in and accepted the challenge. This opportunity offered itself at the ideal time for the continued achievements of The Coffee Exchange. They started to see numerous new opportunities to help the community. It gave them the chance to rent its commercial kitchen to other local food entrepreneurs. They developed a wholesale line of baked goods and pre made foods for local cafes and coffee shops. They connected with the community by being able to participate in local farmers markets, music events and be part of downtown festivities. This gave Kim and Andy even more of a reason to push to make their business one of the best downtown destinations.

It is clear to see that Kim and Andy have put all their heart, energy and talent into the business. At the end of 2017, Kim and Andy officially became business partners formalizing what was already obvious to Andy. Not sure who is more modest in this situation. Andy is insistent in saying that he did not give Kim any of the business, that Kim full on earned that herself. And if you ask Kim, it is an honor to be business partners with Andy as he is the key to helping make her dreams become reality. Both Kim and Andy are selfless, reliable, inspiring individuals who, fortunately enough, crossed paths at the perfect time in both of their lives.
When visiting The Coffee Exchange, you get to see reminders of Andy and Kim around the shop, owning its eclectic, comfortable and inviting feel, owning the feeling that they do care about each person that walks through the door. They may not be born and raised in Colorado Springs, but you will see that this is their home. This shop reflects the definition of locally owned. You can see that their customers are not just faces but names and stories, they are family. They have come so far within the community, as individuals, as friends, they brought so many people together, that they have completely outgrown their shop and are ready to expand!This is positively the best thing to happen here at The Coffee Exchange. With enough willpower and enthusiasm Kim and Andy are ready for the next step but they need some help! They are getting ready to give the shop a massive face lift, included but not limited to, double the space, triple the amount of seating, second floor open concept mezzanine, huge outdoor patio, full commercial kitchen, new international style menu including breakfast, lunch and dinner, double the baked goods selection, a full bar, an entertainment stage for special events and so much more!





This has been a dream for Andy and Kim, and this dream is about to become reality thanx to you! They are ambitious, determined, ready to prove that every little bit does help, that anything is possible with a little fight, the strength to never give up, and that it is okay to ask for help! Be part of the adventure as they turn the page and begin a new chapter at The Coffee Exchange.

 Thank you so much to all the family, friends, and customers who became friends of The Coffee Exchange team!
You all are amazing! We Love You! 
 
 
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Donations 

  • Kevan Worley
    • $50 
    • 6 yrs
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Organizer

Kim Gentile Outlaw
Organizer
Colorado Springs, CO

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