August Newsletter
Private Events, New Inclusive Items, and More!
Private Events, New Inclusive Items, and More!
We are so excited to share the latest news with you from Esteamed Coffee as we surf into the last month of summer! From the new chance to celebrate with friends or colleagues at a private cafe event, to enjoying fresh treats from a disability-inclusive vendor, there's a lot to look forward to.
We also want to thank you for contributing to last month's Disability Pride Fundraiser! Thanks to your generosity we were able to raise $2,150 for our programs - and it isn't too late to support our effort! You can still donate to the campaign and show your Disability Pride.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the Esteamed Express.
Julie Walker
Executive Director
Last month, we launched a brand-new opportunity at Esteamed Coffee: private events! Whether you're celebrating a birthday, planning a team-building session, or simply looking for a cozy space to connect, we’ll keep the good energy — and great coffee — flowing. When you book a private event with us, you’re not just reserving a warm and welcoming venue. You’re also supporting our mission by creating meaningful job opportunities for our incredible staff and helping share the story of inclusion with every cup.
Here’s what’s included:
• Private use of our indoor and outdoor space for two hours
• A dedicated team of Esteamed Coffee staff
• One complimentary café drink per guest (more available for purchase)
• Optional add-ons like pastries and Esteamed Coffee gift items
Pricing starts at $250 plus $6 per guest. Private events are scheduled outside our regular business hours, during times when other public events (like our popular game nights) aren’t taking place.
Ready to plan something special? Visit the Private Events page on our website to learn more. We can’t wait to welcome you and your guests with a smile!
At Esteamed Coffee, we pride ourselves on partnering with organizations that share our mission of providing employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. That's why we're so excited to now offer drinks and snacks from local vendor Special Treats!
Special Treats is located in Chapel Hill, and offers delicious natural juice and tasty chocolates. Even better than chocolate? The majority of their employees are individuals with disabilities. Come try their peach or watermelon limeade today, or pick up a sweet "Esteamed" dark chocolate square near the cash register. Stay tuned for some seasonal sweets near the holidays, too!
If you are a disability-inclusive vendor that would like to be featured at the cafe, please reach out to esteamedcoffee@gmail.com.
Reaching New Heights
Twelve years ago, at just 18 years old, our Head Cashier Austin faced a life-altering challenge: a stroke that left him with partial paralysis, vision loss, aphasia, and a daunting road to recovery ahead. This summer, at the age of 30, Austin achieved something truly remarkable: he conquered Mt. LeConte, one of the tallest peaks in the Smoky Mountains.
The trail is over six miles long and climbs more than 4,000 feet in elevation. It’s a demanding hike for anyone, and Austin tackled it with the same quiet determination he brings to work every day.
At Esteamed Coffee, we're privileged to witness Austin's daily triumphs, his perseverance, strength, and the joy he brings to our team. Austin's journey is a powerful reminder of why inclusion and belief in potential matter. His resilience inspires us all to push beyond perceived limits and embrace the extraordinary in ourselves and others.
As we celebrate Austin's impressive achievement, we invite you to join us in supporting Esteamed Coffee. Your contributions help create opportunities for individuals like Austin to thrive, showcasing the limitless possibilities when we champion diversity and inclusion.
Together, let's continue to build a community where everyone's potential is recognized and celebrated. Whether through your time, resources, or advocacy, your support makes a meaningful difference.
Thank you for believing in our mission and the incredible individuals like Austin who embody it every day.
Your donation helps Esteamed Coffee's staff and all people with disabilities have a place where belonging meets community.