March Newsletter
2026 Fundraising Gala, Local Coverage, and More!
2026 Fundraising Gala, Local Coverage, and More!
This year is off to a great start, with local recognition, several fun (and free) events for adults with disabilities, and a welcome change in the weather.
One thing we are especially excited about is the planning of Brewing Opportunities 2026: A Wonderland of Possibilities. This biannual fundraising gala is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our staff and raise support for our mission. You can learn more and even secure your tickets for the event below.
We are excited to invite you to Brewing Opportunities 2026: A Wonderland of Possibilities, our biannual fundraising gala supporting meaningful employment and social opportunities for adults with disabilities. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, our 2024 gala raised $87,000 to support our mission. This year, we’re aiming even higher with a goal of raising $100,000 to expand opportunities, strengthen connections, and continue building an inclusive community where everyone can thrive!
Inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, the evening will feature a catered dinner, silent and live auctions, inclusive music, speakers, and even our fan-favorite dessert raffle, where tables bid for the chance to choose first from a table of delicious donated treats. It promises to be a joyful and memorable night filled with fun and purpose.
Tickets are on sale now and seating is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot soon. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those who want to make an even greater impact. Join us for an unforgettable evening and help turn possibility into opportunity. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Esteamed Coffee was recently featured in an article by the Raleigh News & Observer! Not only were we spotlighted on their website, we also had the thrill of seeing our name in print as part of the February 18th issue. This article shared the recognition we received for being named one of the Top 10 Women-Owned Cafes in the country on Yelp! Coming in at number six on the list, Esteamed Coffee was interviewed by OnDeck Media as part of the award.
“Know your ‘Why’ when starting your business journey as it will motivate you and sustain you on the hard days,” co-founders Angie Hudson and Tamara Lapsley said, “Keep doing the next right thing towards your goal/dream,
especially on the hard days when you want to give up. Rather than listening to the critics who say you aren’t qualified to start your business, surround yourself with positive, encouraging people who have the skills you lack and believe in your dream alongside you.”
You can admire the newspaper on display now at Esteamed Coffee!
We recently published our annual report for 2025, in which our Esteamed parents provided testimonials about their children's progress. We are happy to share one of those stories here, about Esteamed barista Alyssa:
"Alyssa started work at Esteamed Coffee two years ago and the growth we have seen in her has been amazing! Her confidence not only at work, but in day to day life has been wonderful. When she started she was shy and had a hard time carrying on conversations and making eye contact with others.
Now she’s made friends with her coworkers and built rapport with customers. Alyssa is always smiling and is very confident in her job. This is a testament of the impact of Esteamed Coffee and the community it has created!"
Patrice, Esteamed Parent
Your support makes growth like this possible. Thank you for helping our team develop important job and social skills every single day!
Your donation helps the Esteamed Coffee® team and all people with disabilities have a place where belonging meets community.