May Newsletter
Scholarship Program, NC Courage Game, and More!
Scholarship Program, NC Courage Game, and More!
Dear Esteamed Family,,
We are so excited to share the latest news with you from Esteamed Coffee! As you can see above, our team is thrilled and deeply grateful for the recent community accolades we've received: Best Coffeehouse from 5 West Magazine and Best Coffee Shop from Cary Magazine! These awards highlight the incredible support of community members like you, empowering us to serve exceptional coffee alongside a healthy dose of opportunity and inclusion.
This May, we are also excited to announce the first ever scholarship from Esteamed Coffee: Full Steam Ahead. If you or someone you know is an adult with a disability that is hoping to go to school, take vocational classes, pursue job training, or start or expand a business, please read below for more information on how to apply. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the Esteamed Express!
Julie Walker
Executive Director
We all know that adults with disabilities have big dreams and can do amazing things when given the chance. That's why we are so excited to announce the new Full Steam Ahead Scholarship from Esteamed Coffee! Esteamed Coffee is committed to empowering adults with disabilities by providing financial assistance for education, vocational training, or entrepreneurial endeavors. This scholarship aims to support individuals in achieving their professional and personal goals.
Scholarship Award Details:
Selection Process
Scholarship recipients will be chosen by the Esteamed Coffee selection committee based on the following criteria:
Awardees will be notified by June 16th and will be required to attend 3-, 6- and 12-month check-ins with the selection committee to update on progress.
Esteamed Coffee is going on a field trip! Join us for our first ever off-site social event on Saturday, May 17th as the NC Courage take on the Chicago Stars. Come cheer on the local team with your friends!
For an extra shot of fun, May 17th is also Star Wars Night at WakeMed Soccer Park. Feel free to wear your best Star Wars attire or your favorite Esteamed gear!
Tickets are limited and free for adults with disabilities, compliments of the NC Courage. We will also have staff and volunteers in attendance to supervise the event. If you do not qualify for a free ticket but would like to join us, you may purchase tickets in section 310 at the NC Courage website.
We can't wait to see you there!
For the first time in over a year, we have brought on a new member to the EsTEAM! Please join us in saying a huge welcome to new Shift Supervisor Kathryn "Ryn" Whitely. Ryn brings the perfect blend of professional and lived experience, which was summed up beautifully in the following bio:
"Since graduating from UNC Greensboro with degrees in Psychology and Advocacy and Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, I’ve been passionate about working within the disability community. My personal journey—learning about my own autism and being connected with the Deaf community—has fueled my commitment to disability rights and justice. This passion led me to the position as Shift Manager at Esteamed Coffee.
Esteamed Coffee has given me a place where I can be myself without hiding my disabilities, work with purpose, and contribute to a team that values inclusion and authenticity. I’m proud to be part of a space that not only uplifts the disability community but also creates opportunities for all of us to thrive, together."
Welcome, Ryn! We are so excited to have you on the team!
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