LAKE GENEVA, Wisc., (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- A brand new coffee shop in Lake Geneva is doing more than serving up espresso and cappuccino, they are living out a unique mission. Inspired Coffee opened its doors this week downtown. The shop provides employment opportunities and job training skills for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. 

The shop, operated by Williams Bay-based Inspiration Ministries, is designed to teach people skills they can use in the hospitality industry. The shop is not designed to provide long term employment; instead, its goal is to teach skills that staff can then use elsewhere. 

“This is a social enterprise, so it's a business with a mission. We hope when people come in here they see that they are not only going to get a good cup of coffee or a treat but also have an experience to give back to the community and help change the futures of people with special needs,” says Inspiration Ministries' Erik Barber.

For 19-year-old Nick Taylor, who works as a host at the shop, having the chance to work is an exciting prospect. Taylor says this is his first job, and that it has helped him gain confidence when it comes to interacting with other people. 

“When I was younger I used to be shy, but now I am getting better at it,” says Taylor. 

Inspired Coffee’s opening was delayed by about a month and a half due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is now up and running. 

More information can be found about them by visiting their website. ​