If you happen to visit the historic district of New Haven Missouri and have a craving for coffee, no doubt you’ll be tempted to try a place described by countless reviewers as having a “cozy” atmosphere “delicious” coffee and “amazing” service. What you may not know at first glance is that aside from offering amazing food and service, Northern Coffee House also offers individuals with disabilities a place to work and exchange with others. Collin, a young man with Down Syndrome is a barista at the highly revered coffee house and a model for integration of individuals with special needs. Owner Elizabeth Bennett remarks that since he started Collin feels like he is part of something productive. She also explains that the real integration comes from serving a quality product no matter who is behind the bar. Taking it a step further Elizabeth Bennett will be starting a coffee talk series where she has special guests who can offer their own unique perspective on individuals with special needs. The hope is that through these talks people can become more informed about what it means to have special needs and help shatter some of the stereotypes that exist today. The cause is near and dear to Elizabeth, as she has a daughter with Down Syndrome who is young but hopefully one day will also have an integral part in the Coffee House and the overall movement this trail blazing mom has started.
