Change: Inclusive Cafe Has So Much to Give in Accessibility

Cover image for blog including 3 photos of people with disabilities working in a cafe with coffee, baked goods, and aprons. One photo is a group of people multi-ethnicity and abilities sitting together around a table smiling over game pieces like checkers and cards.

Accessibility and inclusion. These two words are major hot button topics. On one hand we talk about it all day everyday that it seems like as a field and culture that we must have made great strides towards accessibility and inclusion. We have enjoyed some major wins over the last few decades. Think about parking spaces, larger bathrooms, more places of education and business becoming wheelchair/other mobility accessible, ASL interpreters or live streaming for events. Still, we have a long way to go. You can pick whatever category you want: political, economical, moral, social and we can find room for improvement and growth. Isn’t that the human condition?! We are to never stop dreaming, aspiring, learning, and growing.

Employment opportunities for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities are still behind the demand but there are positive stories of change popping up all the time. Today I want to share one that is in our own home state of PA. Perhaps you want to take some time this summer to visit. Maybe you can gather your friends and neighbors, grab inspiration from the idea, and launch your own community changing business.

So Much to Give is an Inclusive Café that opened January 2023. This young business and the same-named program was the passion project of Maureen Stanko. The idea sparked when she and her son, Nick (20) were facing fast approaching graduation. It is every youth’s question “what will I do after graduation?”. However, opportunities can be limited for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism. The title and heart behind the inclusive café was inspired by the reality that everyone has “so much to give.” No matter what kind of talents and challenges a person has, they have something no one else can provide to make a positive difference in the world.

Not only are the job opportunities inclusive but also the dining experience. The culture at the café is one of acceptance and understanding. Testimonial videos on the website show parents and young adults expressing what a relief it is to be able to eat out and not worry about other people judging or raising complaints. Perhaps someone needs more sensory input or to take a break, get up, and move. Patrons of So Much to Give just get it. Everyone is accepted in this uniquely safe zone. Support from the community and Pillars of Light and Love allowed So Much to Give to raise funds for a commercial kitchen and an elevator. The elevator is a major win to make the second floor dining space accessible to anyone. Browsing the online menu will get your mouth watering. They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian menu items but be aware that the kitchen itself is not entirely gluten free. You can call to see if dietary requirements can be accommodated: 484-854-3379.

Photo of a father and daughter with down syndrom both wearing yellow t-shirts enjoying an orange. The top of the image displays text "community focused"

Photo created in non-profit canva account shows a Caucasian man and woman of differing abilities enjoying muffins and coffee cups in a cheerful bright room with a wooden table. Text over a yellow band displays "cafe"

This neighborhood gem is found at 3401 W Skippack PK in Cedars, PA 19423. The Café is open Wednesday to Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. serving breakfast and lunch. If dinner is what you are looking for, visit Wednesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more details, check out the So Much To Give Inclusive Café website at: https://www.somuchtogivecafe.org Don’t miss the special events, blog, or video gallery. Or connect on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SoMuchtoGiveCafePa/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/somuchtogiveinclusivecafe/ and Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFlAVN3egey_KFk5g9CKa4g

If you are a local looking for volunteer opportunities at the café or ways to support the employees with disabilities, e-mail Marijane Barbone at smtgcafevolunteers@gmail.com.

Each of us are packed with so much potential. I know we have creative readers out there just bursting to make your mark. Don’t say “it has already been done” or let any other naysaying excuse stand in your way. You, and maybe the team of people you will take with you on your journey, will bring your own spin to the project. Who knows what life changing impact you can bring to your community. Because just like the Inclusive Café, you have So Much to Give.