Maureen Stanko of Cedars, Pennsylvania, has created a beacon of hope for families with special-needs children. Stanko’s son, Nick, a 20-year-old on the autism spectrum, inspired the creation of the So Much To Give Inclusive Cafe, which opened its doors in January 2023. This unique cafe employs 63 people, 80% of whom have disabilities, serving in roles ranging from greeters to sous chefs.
Maureen was feeling concerned about what Nick would do once he finished school. Nick’s therapist shared with her that he dreamt of opening a restaurant that would employ people with disabilities. With the help of philanthropist Kathy Opperman, this dream quickly became a reality.
The cafe has become more than a workplace—it’s a community hub where people with disabilities can dine without stress. It’s a place where Nick learned to comfortably sit at a restaurant, and where others, like Lauren Oppelts, who is hearing impaired, thrive in roles they never imagined possible. Oppelts, who works as a hostess and teaches sign language, shared her newfound confidence, saying, “I mean, if you would ask me over a year ago, two years ago that I would be a hostess, a server, I wouldn’t believe you. Because I have grown so much self-confidence… A lot of these employees I’ve known since the very, very beginning and the growth I see in them, it’s just mind-blowing.”
Adjacent to the cafe, Stanko established the Inspiration Studio. Here, individuals with disabilities engage in music, life skills, and crafts, further enriching their lives.
Through her initiative, Stanko has not only provided meaningful employment and a supportive community but also demonstrated that everyone truly has “so much to give.” This inspiring venture reflects the power of community, dedication, and the belief that everyone has valuable contributions to make.