Empowering Youth: Green Bay's Counting Stars Café Transforms Lives

In the heart of Green Bay, a remarkable initiative is unfolding, where a group of young individuals with disabilities are not only finding their voices but also making a tangible impact on their community. Counting Stars, Inc., a nonprofit organization, has taken a bold step in opening a coffee shop that is entirely run by the very kids it serves, showcasing their talents and resilience.

Brewing a Brighter Future, One Cup at a Time

Counting Stars: Empowering Youth with Disabilities

Counting Stars, Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Brown County, Wisconsin, dedicated to serving children and teenagers with disabilities, ranging from 4 to 17 years of age. The organization's mission is to provide a nurturing environment where these young individuals can thrive, develop essential life skills, and forge meaningful connections with their peers and the community.At the heart of Counting Stars' initiatives is the recently opened Counting Stars Café, a coffee shop located within the Green Bay YWCA. This innovative venture is a testament to the organization's commitment to empowering its participants and fostering their independence. The café is entirely run by the kids and teenagers that Counting Stars serves, offering them a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience, hone their customer service skills, and take pride in their contributions to the community.

Brewing a Brighter Future: The Counting Stars Café

The Counting Stars Café is more than just a coffee shop; it's a hub of hope and empowerment. Open on Tuesdays and Fridays, the café operates on a donation-based model, allowing the community to support the initiative and the young individuals behind it. The menu features a variety of coffee, tea, and other refreshing beverages, all crafted with care and attention by the Counting Stars participants.The café's success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the young baristas. From mastering the art of brewing the perfect cup of coffee to managing the cash register and interacting with customers, the Counting Stars participants have taken on every aspect of the café's operations. This hands-on experience not only builds their practical skills but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment, as they witness the tangible impact of their efforts.

Fostering Independence and Community Engagement

The Counting Stars Café is more than just a coffee shop; it's a platform for personal growth and community engagement. By providing these young individuals with the opportunity to work in a real-world setting, the organization is helping them develop essential life skills, such as time management, problem-solving, and teamwork.Beyond the café's walls, the Counting Stars participants are also actively involved in the broader community. The organization regularly organizes events and fundraisers to support its initiatives and raise awareness about the capabilities and potential of individuals with disabilities. One such upcoming event is a fundraiser on Thursday, November 14th, at Ledgecrest Reserve in De Pere, where the community can come together to support the Counting Stars mission.

Transforming Lives, One Cup at a Time

The Counting Stars Café is more than just a coffee shop; it's a testament to the power of inclusion, empowerment, and community. By providing these young individuals with the opportunity to showcase their talents and contribute to their community, Counting Stars is not only transforming lives but also challenging societal perceptions about individuals with disabilities.As the Counting Stars Café continues to thrive, the organization's impact extends far beyond the walls of the coffee shop. The participants' newfound confidence, skills, and sense of purpose are rippling through the community, inspiring others and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.