I push the doors to the coffee house open with one hand, juggling two bags in the other. My eyes scan what appears to be a calm and peaceful sanctuary for coffee goers and and enthusiasts alike. Little did I know, that this haven for coffee beans and compassion is a by-donation coffee house and outreach program, founded by Cliff Power. My name is Frances, and this is the story of how I began my journey of working at the Extreme Outreach Coffee House.
It had been a day full of stress and some tears. I had an appointment nearby, and had wandered into said oasis in search of a chair, a warm beverage and perhaps, some wifi. I smiled at the man making the coffee, who turned out to be none other than Cliff Power himself, the founder of the Extreme Outreach society. I sat down and took off my coat, and had been recovering form laryngitis. Cliff had the kindness to give me something for my throat and mentioned that we should have a conversation. So, I finished the phone call I was on, and we had a brief conversation about what I could bring to the coffee house. I would go on to work as a barista, (something that I'd never done before) musician, social media marketing person, and organizer of the new open mic event that will take place at the coffee house every Saturday afternoon, commencing at the end of March. I had also had the exciting opportunity to work with a group of kids who were volunteering at the coffee house as well.
This opportunity felt right for both of us, as surprising and as sudden as the opportunity had presented itself. It seemed in itself, as a gift from God, as I was struggling with finding a job, and had a really tough few months.
When something good comes into your life, never question it, and embrace it with open arms.
- Frances Takach, Barista, Extreme Outreach Employee
Hard at work or hardly working.
I had such a fun day teaching these kids to make hot chocolate.. or were they teaching me? Hmm...
Hard at work doing social media for the coffee house. See you next time, and please don't forget to upvote us for more fun, daily posts!
xx, Frances