A new coffee truck, Rising STARS Coffee, has launched in San Antonio, offering more than just caffeinated beverages. Operated by SA Life Academy, a continuing education program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the truck provides students with valuable real-world experience in business and customer service, aiming to brew up brighter futures for its participants.
Key Takeaways
- The Rising STARS Coffee truck is operated by SA Life Academy, a nonprofit supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- The initiative provides students with hands-on experience in business, food preparation, and customer service.
- The coffee truck debuted on September 24th and operates three mornings a week at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church.
- Proceeds from sales directly benefit SA Life Academy’s programs.
Brewing Potential Together
The Rising STARS Coffee truck, with its motto "Brewing Potential Together," is more than just a mobile cafe; it’s a vital training ground for the students of SA Life Academy. Raymond Anthony "Ray" Gonzales III, a student at the academy, exemplifies the program’s impact. He greets customers with a friendly demeanor, drawing on past experience at a bowling alley’s coffee bar. Gonzales, along with his three co-workers, are gaining practical skills in making various coffee drinks, handling payments, and interacting with the public.
A Community Partnership
SA Life Academy has partnered with Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, which generously purchased the coffee truck. The truck is stationed at the church on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This collaboration allows students to gain experience in a supportive environment while serving the local community. The church pastor, the Rev. Mike Middaugh, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting the joy of seeing the students’ friendly faces and the positive relationships being built.
Expanding Horizons
Beyond its regular location, the Rising STARS Coffee truck plans to travel to different community events once a month, with its first outing scheduled for a Down syndrome awareness event. This mobility further expands the students’ opportunities to interact with a wider audience and showcase their developing skills. Samantha Pety, executive director of SA Life Academy, highlighted that the coffee truck experience is akin to an internship, helping students build resumes and discover hidden talents. Professional baristas from Archies Fine Coffee have also provided training, sharing valuable insights into the coffee trade.
Positive Impact and Community Support
The initiative has already garnered positive feedback from the community. Customers like Cynthia Sheffield and Annie Rogers have expressed their support, appreciating the opportunity to contribute to a local cause while enjoying a good cup of coffee. The students, referred to as "stars" by Pety, have shown enthusiasm and dedication, with individuals like Jakob Curnutt, 22, expressing their love for helping people by making coffee. The success of the truck is a tangible demonstration of what these students can achieve when given the chance.
Sources
- S.A. nonprofit’s new coffee truck aims to brew up brighter futures, San Antonio Express-News.
- S.A. nonprofit’s new coffee truck aims to brew up brighter futures, Yahoo.
