A suburban human-services agency plans to open a cafe that will sell coffee and doughnuts and give people with disabilities opportunities to develop job skills.
The cafe is a project of Arlington Heights-based Clearbrook, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a non-profit agency that works with individuals with disabilities and their families.
Some of the profits from the cafe are expected to go to support Clearbrook programs.
The Arlington Heights Village Board approved a permit in August for the agency to open a 5,500-square-foot coffee shop at 1859 W. Central Rd. early next year.
Renovation is expected to cost $125,000. In addition to Krispy Kreme Donuts and Seattle’s Best Coffee, the cafe also will sell Clearbrook coffee cups and T-shirts.
Carl La Mell, president of Clearbrook, said he first approached Mayor Arlene Mulder three years ago seeking support for the cafe.
“This is my dream,” La Mell said. “We are very excited.”
Clearbrook also operates Practically Perfect and Practically Perfect II, resale shops in Arlington Heights and Des Plaines also staffed by some Clearbrook clients.
The agency also provides residential services and family support services for nearly 350 people living in Clearbrook homes and their own homes.
