Changed lives, cup by cup
Alanna Kelly - Feb 24, 2017 - Biz Releases

A Kelowna cafe is trying to make a difference – one cup of coffee at a time.

The John Howard Society of Central and South Okanagan is giving people with disabilities the opportunity to develop their jobs skills.

“This program is called One Cup At A Time and it is a program to help individuals who face multi barriers and gaining employment to get back into the work world,” said Andrea Sage, program coordinator.

Over 20 applicants signed up and 10 participants were chosen to start the program on Monday.

“They are going to start in the cafe as soon as we get their certifications,” said Sage.

Those certifications include Food Safe, World Host, Serving It Right, First Aid and other life skills they’ll be taught in the classroom.

Kelsey Smith-Paris said this program allows her to find employers and have a community that supports her.

“What we are doing here is building connections and networking and influencing people to be better and feel like they aren’t alone” said Smith-Paris.

Sage said the participants’ success is their success.

“I love being part of this,” she said. “For me, being passionate about community building, this is where it all starts.”

All of the funds from One Cup At A Time goes back to the community programming.

“The most rewarding part is watching people grow, the growth of the group,” Sage said.

For more information or to get involved you can visit their website.


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