UTICA – The smell of fresh brewed coffee now greets employees and the community who work and visit 125 Business Park Drive thanks to The Caring Cup, a place brought to life by Upstate Caring Partners.
The Caring Cup operates on the first floor of the office building, offering up some of the standard fare you would find at most cafes. Hot drip coffee and cold brew, powered by Utica Coffee Roasting, are offered up to patrons alongside a variety of delicious muffins that are a perfect start to the work day. Participants in Upstate Caring Partners vocational programs staff The Caring Cup, gaining meaningful hands-on experience that comes with working in the service industry. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are given the opportunity to craft drink orders, interact with customers, and participate in the many aspects that come with day-to-day operations of this blossoming business venture.
“The Caring Cup reflects what’s possible when a community comes together to create opportunities for everyone,” said Jeremy Earl, Executive VP of Education Programs at Upstate Caring Partners. “By providing real-world vocational experiences in a welcoming environment, we’re helping individuals develop skills that prepare them for future success while demonstrating the value and contributions people of all abilities bring to the workforce.”
Start-up funding for The Caring Cup was provided by a generous donor via The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties. The Caring Cup is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 11:00am and is located on the first floor of the 125 Business Park Drive Building.
Upstate Caring Partners provides innovative programs and services that support
and create opportunities for people of all abilities.
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