It’s typically on our busiest of days that we try to leave a little earlier than normal to squeeze into the shortest line you can find at a place that sells coffee. As a coffee addict myself, I do this at least once a week. Last Monday, January 25, Amy and Ben Wright changed my coffee routine with the opening of Beau’s Coffee -- it’s more than just coffee. The environment of this sweet little coffee shop is like that of none other.
Beau’s Coffee, on the corner of Wrightsville and South Kerr avenues, is an amazing nonprofit that supplied somewhere around 20 jobs to adults who are challenged by Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Beau, the Wrights' 11-year-old son, for whom the shop is named, and his younger 6-year-old sister Bitty both have Down syndrome.
In and of itself, this nonprofit is an exceptional addition to the Wilmington community, and its mission is nothing less than commendable. The Wrights have created more than just opportunities for employment. They have created an environment in which both the employees' and customers’ lives can be enriched by every visit. The employees benefit not only from their regular paychecks, but also through positive interaction in the community. This interaction brings so many smiles to so many faces, and we hope that it won’t stop here. The Wrights hope to lead by example to encourage other businesses and corporations to employ individuals with disabilities.
Approximately 85 percent of people living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in our country are unemployed, but thanks to two wonderful hearts right here in Wilmington that number is now 20 less than it was just last week.
Something that used to be a tedious moment in my busy schedule is now something that I set time aside for. I never thought that grabbing a coffee would ever be truly meaningful to me, but Beau’s changed that. The next time you have a few minutes to enjoy more than just a coffee, give Beau’s a try.
Beau's is located at 4414 Wrightsville Ave. and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
