In Michigan, after 26 years of age, special needs individuals can no longer attend public schools. For these individuals and their families, what to do next is a real challenge. In 2007, a local group of retired teachers, parents, and volunteers got together to see if they could provide some type of meaningful employment for those adults. There is a real need to provide employment for special needs adults, not only in Cadillac, but throughout Michigan.
The After 26 group was originally inspired by a Chesaning restaurant called the Junction of Hope. It is the first non-profit 501(c)(3) restaurant in the country, and their purpose is to hire special needs people in their community. Following their example, the After 26 group filed for non-profit status with the federal government, and received that in the summer of 2008. This was the vital first step in providing employment for these adults.
The After 26 board of directors is now on a path to open the After 26 Café and Unique Gift Shop. The next step is to raise funds for the opening. Success will be achieved with the employment of special needs adults. One visit to the Junction of Hope Restaurant in Chesaning clearly shows what a job means to the special needs people that work there. It builds their self-esteem and helps them become happy, productive members of their community.The biggest challenge is to raise the estimated opening costs of $50,000. Money raised will be received from private grants and individual donations. Your support is greatly appreciated!The next After 26 Project fundraiser is coming up in a few weeks:What: The “After 26 Project” Golf Outing!!Where: Emerald Vale Golf ClubWhen: Saturday, June 26, 2010Time: Shotgun Start at 8:30 A.M.Cost: Golfers will pay $60 to be a participant.Includes: golf, prizes and lunchPlease include a $60 deposit with your entry to hold your spot. Make checks payable to the “After 26 Project.” Entries should be received by June 18th.Cart Sponsors and Hole Sponsors are available. Prize donations are also needed.Mail forms to: [see Penny for details]
The After 26 group was originally inspired by a Chesaning restaurant called the Junction of Hope. It is the first non-profit 501(c)(3) restaurant in the country, and their purpose is to hire special needs people in their community. Following their example, the After 26 group filed for non-profit status with the federal government, and received that in the summer of 2008. This was the vital first step in providing employment for these adults.
The After 26 board of directors is now on a path to open the After 26 Café and Unique Gift Shop. The next step is to raise funds for the opening. Success will be achieved with the employment of special needs adults. One visit to the Junction of Hope Restaurant in Chesaning clearly shows what a job means to the special needs people that work there. It builds their self-esteem and helps them become happy, productive members of their community.The biggest challenge is to raise the estimated opening costs of $50,000. Money raised will be received from private grants and individual donations. Your support is greatly appreciated!The next After 26 Project fundraiser is coming up in a few weeks:What: The “After 26 Project” Golf Outing!!Where: Emerald Vale Golf ClubWhen: Saturday, June 26, 2010Time: Shotgun Start at 8:30 A.M.Cost: Golfers will pay $60 to be a participant.Includes: golf, prizes and lunchPlease include a $60 deposit with your entry to hold your spot. Make checks payable to the “After 26 Project.” Entries should be received by June 18th.Cart Sponsors and Hole Sponsors are available. Prize donations are also needed.Mail forms to: [see Penny for details]
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