Change Please
Change Please exists to challenge stereotypes, to breakdown walls and kick open doors for those who may struggle to open them. Instead of handouts, they believe in giving a hand up so everyone can harness the potential within and become the best version of themselves.
Overview:
Change Please USA is a nonprofit social enterprise that operates a specialty coffee company and barista training academy to create employment pathways for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. With a training and retail café located in Aurora, Change Please combines exceptional coffee with workforce development, helping participants build the skills, confidence, and professional experience needed to launch careers in hospitality and beyond.
Population served:
Individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, as well as others facing significant barriers to employment and economic stability
Enterprise type:
Specialty coffee roasting and wholesale
Coffee shop and hospitality
Client Services offered:
Paid barista training and transitional employment
Specialty coffee and hospitality skills training
Career coaching and individualized employment support
Immersive workplace experiences with hospitality partners
Job placement assistance and post-employment support
Program length:
Participants progress through a structured workforce development model that includes Employment Essentials, barista training, immersive workplace experiences, and supported job placement, with ongoing coaching throughout their employment journey. The total experience is generally 1-2 months in length.
How You Can Support Change Please
Change Please USA can help with any of the following needs:
Wholesale Coffee:
Serve award-winning, ethically sourced coffee in your office, café, restaurant, hotel, or workplace. Every purchase helps fund workforce development programs for people experiencing barriers to employment.
Visit the Aurora Café:
Stop by the Change Please training café on the Fitzsimons Innovation Campus for handcrafted coffee and beverages while supporting paid barista training and employment opportunities.
Employment Partnerships:
Partner with Change Please to provide immersive workplace experiences, internships, or permanent employment opportunities for program graduates.
Corporate & Community Partnerships:
Support the mission through sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, coffee service partnerships, or financial contributions that expand access to training and employment for individuals rebuilding their lives.
