The Chick-fil-A Foundation honored an Athens Nonprofit Tuesday morning. Java Joy is the national recipient of Chick-fil-A’s 2020 True Inspiration Award.
According to a media release, the $100,000 grant is given to organizations who go above and beyond in the fields of Economic Empowerment, Education, Youth Homelessness and Poverty.
Founded in 2016, Java Joy focuses on the untapped abilities of an under-utilized population-adults with disabilities.
The organization’s baristas, called Joyristas, travel to businesses and events with a mobile coffee cart, serving coffee and hugs.
Laura Whitaker, co-founder of Java Joy and Executive Director of its parent organization Extra Special People, says the award will help reach the goal of taking the Java Joy experience around the country.
“Our vision is to spread the Java Joy experience across the nation as we bring joy to others and give meaningful employment opportunities to individuals of all abilities,” according to Whitaker. “This award is a huge step toward that goal.”
In December, Java Joy launched in San Francisco and this spring, plans are to expand into Atlanta and Rome, Ga
Athens Beechwood Operator Shane Todd presented the check to Java Joy team members.
