Hello everyone! We’ve got a heartwarming story to share about Rachel Barcellona, a former school assistant with autism who almost faced homelessness but found her saving grace at a Manhattan café. This isn’t just any café, though—it’s Café Joyeux, a special place that employs people with cognitive disabilities, giving them opportunities they rarely find elsewhere.
Rachel moved to New York City from Florida and struggled to find a job. She was often told that her autism was a burden and that she would never be hired. Things looked bleak, and she was on the verge of becoming homeless. But then, she discovered Café Joyeux, which opened its doors in March. Since then, Rachel has found not just a job, but a community and a sense of purpose.
Café Joyeux, located on East 52nd Street and Lexington Avenue, is part of a global chain known for its inclusive hiring practices. The café employs individuals with Down syndrome and autism, a population that faces an unemployment rate of about 80%. For Rachel and many others, this café offers more than just a paycheck; it provides a place to grow, connect, and thrive.
Rachel has been working at Café Joyeux for about a year now. She shared how the job has helped her, especially with social interactions. As someone who is introverted, interacting with customers and making them smile has been a significant step forward. She loves making coffee and food for the patrons, and these daily interactions have been incredibly important to her.
The café’s mission is not just about employment; it’s about inclusion and empowerment. CEO Sylvie Giret explained that New York City was the perfect place to launch Café Joyeux’s U.S. expansion due to its diversity and openness. The café has been so successful that they’re even expanding, with plans to hire more people for a new ghost kitchen dedicated to pickup and delivery orders.
Café Joyeux’s inclusive approach extends to its hiring practices as well. They don’t conduct formal interviews. Instead, they evaluate candidates through a series of observations and tests to see how they respond to different situations.
This method ensures that employees are a good fit for the environment and can thrive in their roles. Once hired, employees receive six to eight weeks of training and continuous support from supervisors.
The café’s offerings include a variety of menu items, from craft coffee and tea to French-inspired croques, sandwiches, and pastries. The staff undergoes regular training to keep up with new menu items and to learn about different allergies, ensuring they provide the best service possible.
Rachel’s story is just one example of how Café Joyeux is making a difference. By providing meaningful employment opportunities and a supportive work environment, the café helps its employees build confidence and develop their skills. It’s a model that not only benefits the individuals who work there but also enriches the community as a whole.
In a city that’s always on the move, Café Joyeux offers a moment of human connection and a reminder of the importance of inclusivity. Rachel’s journey from almost being homeless to finding a fulfilling job is a testament to the café’s mission and the impact it has on its employees’ lives. So next time you’re in Midtown Manhattan, stop by Café Joyeux for a cup of coffee and a dose of inspiration.
