How Your Donation Could Save Grand Haven’s Mission-Driven Coffee Shop

A Grand Haven nonprofit coffee shop that has become a beloved part of the Lakeshore community is seeking support to continue its mission.

For the past three years, Kenzie’s Be Cafe has been has providing not just great cups of coffee with a smile, but meaningful workforce training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Working at the cafe gives team members the chance to serve customers, grow their skills, and find purpose in their work.

What is a Be Cafe?

The Be Cafe model isn’t new to West Michigan. The Grand Haven location is part of a growing network of “be cafés,” including Brody’s Be Cafe in Ada, which all share the same mission of creating inclusive spaces where people with disabilities can thrive. If you’ve never stepped foot into one of these coffee shops, you’re truly missing out.

This is where they need your help- the coffee shop is turning to the community to help raise $20,000 in operating funds to help them continue to help others. That amount would cover 16 weeks of expenses which is the equivalent of four people receiving a full year of workforce training.

On top of that, they’ll continue to offer a safe and kind space for Grand Haven residents to support their fellow community members while getting fueled up for their own day.

Good news on their fundraising so far- the community has stepped up, with $5,000 already raised toward the goal. Lyon says the outpouring of encouragement has been energizing and she remains optimistic that the café can reach the full amount needed. If you want to help, you can donate on their website.

For regulars and first-time visitors alike, supporting the café means more than buying a cup of coffee. It’s about helping neighbors with special needs build skills, confidence, and community: one cup at a time.