How Kenzie’s Be Cafe Started
Owner of Jumpin’ Java – a local coffee shop downtown Grand Haven, MI, Erin Lyon was approached by Bobbi Sabine in March of 2021.
Sabine asked if Lyon would be interested in opening a second Jumpin’ Java location in the historical building that Sabine owned. What once was a silent movie theater in the 1920’s and 30’s, The Crescent Theater was ready for a renovation and revamp.
Lyon told Sabine, “No, I wouldn’t want to open a second Jumpin’ Java. I have a better idea.”
Lyon’s niece, Makenzie Aney was born 12-weeks early with cerebral palsy – a disorder that affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture.
Kenzie, as her family lovingly calls her, has had to deal with problems most of us never consider. Minor things like not being able to go into a candy shop with her friends and family because the entrance isn’t wheelchair accessible.
And then bigger worries like, where will I be able to work when I am older?
Frankly – Kenize and most other people with unique abilities want to work and contribute to their community.
But most communities unintentionally exclude this eager, hardworking group because they need extra training and accommodations in order to work.
Sabine gave Lyon an opportunity to change that for her small town, Grand Haven.
Lyon knew of another West Michigan cafe, Brody’s Be Cafe, founded by a mother whose son has Down’s Syndrome.
Because when your child has a disability, you spend a lot of time worrying about their future.
Brody’s Be Cafe was opened so that Brody and other people with unique abilities could have a secure future with employment opportunities.
Lyon’s experience owning and running Jumpin’ Java gave her the confidence and knowledge to say to Sabine, “Let’s start another Be Cafe…Kenzie’s Be Cafe, with the building you own.”
Sabine was thrilled and graciously renovated the historical theater to create a bright, open, accessible coffee shop for Kenzie’s Be Cafe.