COCO Cafe, located in Cedar, BC, is more than just a local coffee shop – it’s a social enterprise with a powerful mission: to provide employment, training, and socialization opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities. By championing this inclusive approach, the cafe has become a cornerstone of the community, delivering over 80,000 hours of supported employment. Its impact resonates far beyond its walls, enriching the lives of employees, their families, and the broader community.
A Place of Empowerment
At the heart of COCO Cafe is the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to contribute to society, regardless of their abilities. As General Manager Marc Taschereau shares, “Our purpose is to provide employment, training, and socialization opportunities for people with diverse abilities.” For Marc, the joy of working at COCO Cafe comes from the opportunity to support individuals in their personal growth. “The best part about working at COCO Cafe is the team. I get to work with some amazing individuals and help them develop their skills. It’s rewarding and a lot of fun,” he says.
This team-focused environment extends beyond the workplace. COCO Cafe’s employees, like Jacob Brauckmann, gain valuable skills that help them thrive both professionally and personally. Jacob, who has been with the cafe since he was 18, has experienced remarkable growth. His mother, Deborah Cooper, who also serves as a board member, highlights the impact on their family: “We’ve seen huge growth in his self-confidence and independence. He can now make breakfast for himself and his family, and he takes on responsibilities at home without being asked.”
Building Community Connections
The positive influence of COCO Cafe extends far beyond its walls. Deborah notes that seeing Jacob and others contribute to the community challenges traditional views of ability. “I think the community gets to see people who face challenges making a meaningful contribution,” she says. As Jacob serves customers and interacts with the community, he not only builds valuable skills but also fosters a sense of inclusion and mutual respect.
For Jacob, the experience has been deeply fulfilling. “My favorite part about working at COCO Cafe is cooking because it’s about helping customers,” he explains. He’s also excited about mentoring new team members, passing on his skills in the kitchen and as a barista. “I love to help train the new people, and working with Marc – we’re like brothers,” Jacob adds.
COCO Cafe’s Impact: A Long-Term Vision
COCO Cafe’s work is made possible by its commitment to sustainability and long-term growth. As an Agency Fund partner with the Nanaimo Foundation, COCO Cafe is building a sustainable financial foundation that will help support its charitable mission and ensure its long-term impact. The Foundation’s expertise in donation management, financial planning, and development provides essential guidance, ensuring that COCO Cafe can continue to offer opportunities for skill-building, empowerment, and community engagement.
Looking toward the future, COCO Cafe envisions expanding its reach to create even more opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities. By developing new initiatives and opening additional locations, COCO Cafe aims to bring its inclusive model of supported employment to more communities, amplifying its impact and fostering greater connections across the region.
For those who visit or work at COCO Cafe, the experience is transformative. Whether it’s a freshly brewed coffee or a well-made meal, the cafe serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when communities embrace diversity and support one another. Through its innovative model of supported employment, COCO Cafe not only changes lives but also strengthens the bonds that make Cedar a vibrant and inclusive place to live.
A Place Where Everyone Belongs
COCO Cafe is a testament to the power of inclusion, offering individuals with diverse abilities the chance to develop skills, gain independence, and contribute meaningfully to their community. Through the continued support of the Nanaimo Foundation and the dedication of its staff, the cafe is poised to remain a beacon of empowerment for years to come. Whether you’re stopping in for a coffee or simply looking to support a local cause, COCO Cafe welcomes all, showing that with the right opportunities, everyone can thrive.
Learn more about COCO Cafe on their website, or make a donation below!
