When Michael Coyne couldn’t find a job, he took an unusual route to solving the problem. He opened his own coffee shop.
At Red, White & Brew in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, customers find a warm, welcoming place for everyone. They also find a friendly owner who is successfully running his own business.
Years of Frustration
Michael has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He is a former Special Olympics athlete who completed a hospitality training program. When he finished the program, he started looking for a restaurant job. Time after time, he said, he was told “no.”
Facebook / Red White & Brew Coffeehouse
After years of frustration, Coyne and his family came up with a new plan. He took business classes at the Rhode Island Developmental Disability Center. He then took out a business loan and opened Red, White & Brew.
Facebook / Red White & Brew Coffeehouse
Beacon of Hope
Coyne plans to hire people with autism and other developmental disabilities.
The coffee shop displays artwork and crafts created by local people with disabilities. The crafts are available at a store across the street.
Coyne said he knows what it’s like to be unappreciated, and he wants to make sure nobody else feels that way. As he told CBS News, he wants Red, White & Brew to be a “beacon of hope” for anyone who feels left out.
Facebook / Red White & Brew Coffeehouse
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Good for you!
Awesome so proud of you ❤
Micheal Your are strenghthen by God’s mercy!lm very inspired for the world, to see that you will fall but JESUS will cover you under his wings. This has definitely made my day. Week and to share to hundreds. God be with you, your loved ones! Your story should be made a book! Give it to JESUS he has wonderful , magnificent plans for you. God bless!! Maribel, a gadly sister and a Hugh supporter! WAy to Go!!!!!!!
I love this story! It should go viral 2 help and encourage people with disadvantages, it shows no matter what u r goung through there will always b a light at the end of their existence, that they can achieve anything that ur dreams dasire!!
Hi
I’m from Mississauga, Ontario Canada. I work in a high school that consists of all special needs students. Your story is truly inspiring and I hope someday to do the same for my students. Individuals like Coyne and the students I am privileged to know and work with have so much to offer. They are hard working, funny, caring, responsible people that just need a chance. Thanks for being so positive