College Voices
Young Man with Autism Opens his Own Coffee Shop After Being Denied Employment
He is already living a challenging life, and when faced with each challenge, he has used his passion and positive attitude to push him forward.
Though he was determined to get a job as he turned the age of 21, Coyne was met with many denials. He soon used the constant rejection as motivation to make an opportunity for himself no matter what negativity he was faced with.
“After I turned 21, I applied to multiple places. None of them would hire me,” said Coyne.
Post-graduation, Coyne and Sheila worked together in starting up a privately owned coffee shop. The shop was friendly and welcoming to all people, no matter their ability.
With the inclusive coffee shop, Coyne proved that discrimination was unacceptable and is continuing to respectfully fight the unfair business world. The coffee shop serves locally-roasted coffee and pastries.
The name of the coffee shop is Red, White, & Brew. Nearby businesses are partnering with the coffee shop because of the unbelievable acceptance the shop shows for all people.
“It’s just a beacon of hope for people with disabilities,” said Coyne.
A nearby craft store called, Budding Violet, sells homemade products made by artists with disabilities and is also advocating for the impact these welcoming businesses are having on the community.
A few of the artists are Coyne’s peers and play an essential role in his motivation and successful community engagement.
“We’ve had parents come in with tears in their eyes with the hope that their young children will eventually be accepted into the community,” said Sheila.
Coyne will continue to grow his business and is hoping to someday hire people with and without disabilities to bring all walks of life together in one business to work together.
He hopes to open the doors for other disabled individuals who may also be struggling to find employment.
“What I liked about the coffee shop idea is the community. We learn on both sides. We teach people, ‘Yeah, he has a disability, but look what he’s doing. And he’s out in the community getting his social skills,” said Shiela.
Shiela is very proud of Coyne as he takes steps in creating a better world for himself and his peers. The Red, White, & Brew Coffeehouse has received tons of support through it’s Facebook page and hopes to use social media as a tool to spread awareness of Coyne’s inspiring achievements.
