Author: Arielle Burnett
Photography Provided
A look into Java Joy
Extra Special People or ESP was founded in 1986 in Watkinsville. The nonprofit organization serves individuals of all ages that have been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, and many more. Their specialized programs are geared to allow the participants to grow and thrive, focusing on their abilities.
After high school programs became limited, and it was difficult for adults involved to grow and take on more responsibilities. In 2013 ESP created Bouncing Bean. A coffee counter set up during the summer camp that would allow adults to gain vocational training. The program was met with much success, and the interaction proved beneficial to all involved.
Java Joy was created to expand the reach of the program through mobile coffee carts. Staffed by “Joyristas,” they are on a mission to serve coffee, give hugs, and spread joy to all they encounter. And that is exactly the result. The community they serve finds joy in the special qualities these joyristas have and the talent and gifts they possess.
The first expansion outside of the area came just one year after the program was started. A participant at a nearby convention where Java Joy was serving coffee was so impressed with the concept he wanted to bring it to his hometown of San Francisco. The program has also grown to three Georgia locations in Athens, Rome, and Atlanta.
Java Joy is hired for a wide range of events throughout the communities they serve. These include schools, churches, weddings, corporate events, and much more.
Java Joy is also now an official coffee vendor at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. They are the first major venue to have a partnership with a nonprofit to employ people with disabilities.
The vision for Java Joy is to “Be the largest and best employer for people with disabilities across the nation,” says Marcella Genut, communications coordinator for ESP.
To book Java Joy for your next event or to learn more, visit their website at Javajoy.org
