Latest Post | Last 10 Posts | Archives
Previous Post: Question of the day
Next Post: Isabel’s afternoon roundup
Posted in:
Gerry’s Café in Arlington Heights is more than a coffee shop—it’s a community-driven café staffed by adults 22 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Co-founded by Amy and Natalie, the café is named in honor of Amy’s Aunt Geralyn, a child with Down syndrome who brought immense joy to her family. The mission is to empower capable individuals often excluded from the workforce by offering meaningful employment, job training, and a place to connect. At Gerry’s Café, every order fills more than just your cup—it uplifts lives and builds a stronger, more inclusive community.
* Daily Herald…
The business employs 35 adults with disabilities between the ages of 22 to 52. They work independently as baristas, cashiers, greeters, bakers, dishwashers and sandwich and salad makers. A general manager, assistant manager and two shift supervisors oversee day-to-day operations, training, inventory and payroll.
“What I thought would be our biggest challenge was our employees and their training, and would they be successful. That was never a challenge,” Griffin said. “I was proven wrong because they immediately accepted the job, they got the training, they were excited, and they put forth so much effort to be good at their jobs.”
* But the business is still facing challenges. More from the Daily Herald…
The founders acknowledge the financial sustainability of Gerry’s Café remains a concern. Nearly two years in, they’ve yet to break even at the register. Payroll costs remain high, and were further increased by the hike in the minimum wage from $14 to $15 an hour at the beginning of the year, they say.
At the same time, there’s great demand for jobs: the shop has a waitlist of 35. […]
But the big thing has been “just getting people to know that we’re here,” Griffin said.
I know I’ll be stopping at Gerry’s soon.
…Adding… If you want to support Gerry’s click here!
posted by Isabel Miller
Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 12:51 pm
Previous Post: Question of the day
Next Post: Isabel’s afternoon roundup
WordPress Mobile Edition available at alexking.org.
powered by WordPress.
Heck, I will be in Arlington Heights today and/or tomorrow, thanks for sharing!
Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 12:54 pm
I can also vouch for their coffee.
Comment by lake county democrat Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 1:00 pm
Wonder if we could get in contact with the owners to set up a “Coffee Fund” where folks could virtually donate to this great establishment.
I am not close to Arlington Heights, and don’t have a vehicle, but would love to support.
Comment by Alton Sinkhole Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 2:30 pm
It’s by my house. I love the place.
Comment by Rahm's Parking Meter Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 2:42 pm
Awesome.
The Village Bakery in Oregon Illinois does the same thing. And their coffee and baked goods are outstanding.
Comment by JS Mill Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 4:15 pm
I can’t recommend Gerry’s enough. Awesome folks.
Comment by Henry Francis Wednesday, Jul 9, 25 @ 4:17 pm