Brewing Inclusion: How Gerry's Cafe is Changing Lives and Building Community Acceptance

This episode of What It Takes features Natalie Griffin and Amy Philpott, co-founders of Gerry’s Cafe, a nonprofit cafe that provides employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Natalie, a former special education teacher, and Amy, a seasoned business professional, joined forces to address the high unemployment rate within this community. Opened in 2023, Gerry’s Cafe combines a mission-driven purpose with excellent craft food and beverages.

The discussion focuses on their journey, from overcoming challenges like grassroots fundraising and pandemic delays to building a supportive community and creating an inclusive workspace. Natalie and Amy emphasize perseverance, collaboration, and the power of a mission-driven vision.

Notes

Key Themes:

1. Inspiration and Founding Story

• Natalie’s special education background highlighted the talents of individuals with disabilities and the stark lack of job opportunities available to them.
• Amy brought her business expertise, and together they built the nonprofit Brewing Opportunities, later rebranded Gerry’s Cafe in memory of Natalie’s aunt, Geralyn Weimer.

1. Challenges and Perseverance:

• Major hurdles included legal and nonprofit setup, fundraising, and building community support.
• The pandemic became a time for strategic planning, board development, and organizational strengthening.

1. Impact:

• Since opening in August 2023, the cafe has employed 37 adults with disabilities, providing skill development and fostering confidence and joy.
• Community testimonials reflect how transformative the cafe is for both employees and customers.

1. Balancing Mission and Business:

• The cafe maintains its nonprofit mission but also strives to run as a successful business.
• High payroll costs from hiring employees with disabilities are offset by community fundraising and commitment to quality products.

1. Advice for Entrepreneurs:

• Perseverance: Keep going despite roadblocks.
• Collaboration: Surround yourself with experts and supportive community members.
• Patience and Planning: Build your vision methodically, with a realistic timeline and strong foundation.
• Grit: Success demands resilience and hard work.

Memorable Quotes:

• “If every single person on the earth could walk into Gerry’s Cafe, the world would be a different place.”
• “That deposit of time [customers give us] will redeposit into their heart and into the community.”

Actionable Takeaways:

• Building a mission-driven business requires persistence, strategic partnerships, and the support of your community.
• Combining a clear social mission with operational excellence can lead to a greater impact.