What is a "BaRISEta"?
BaRISEtas
BaRISEtas are the heart of RISE coffee & tea.
They are individuals with disabilities who bring joy, dedication, and authenticity to our space every day... serving great coffee, building confidence, and creating meaningful connection with our community.
The name BaRISEta comes from barista, but with a deeper meaning. At RISE, our BaRISEtas aren’t defined by a single role or task. They are learners, teammates, and contributors who are supported in discovering their strengths, developing real-world skills, and growing in independence at their own pace.
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to work with purpose, be treated with dignity, and be valued for who they are. Through hands-on training, supportive coaching, and inclusive community, BaRISEtas are empowered to grow professionally, socially, and personally all while helping RISE be a place where everyone belongs.
Want to support the work happening here? Learn more about how you can partner with RISE and our BaRISEtas.
Support the Work Happening Here
Every cup poured helps create meaningful work, build confidence, and open doors for our BaRISEtas. If you would like to be a part of that story, we'd love to invite you in.
Our BaRISEtas
Meridith
Meridith
Meridith
Meridith is known for her friendly spirit and love for people. She enjoys greeting customers, washing dishes, and creating beautiful latte art that makes every visit a little brighter.
Rachel
Meridith
Meridith
Rachel is a dedicated team member who enjoys helping keep the shop running smoothly. She loves prep work like weighing coffee beans and completing tasks on her checklist. Her attention to detail and joyful spirit help RISE stay in tip-top shape.
Brian
Meridith
Jessica
Brian bring great energy to RISE with his sense of humor and strong memory. He loves connecting with customers, making drinks, and talking pop culture, current events and TV shows.
Jessica
Jessica
Jessica
Jessica brings a king and caring presence to RISE. She enjoys connecting with customers, taking orders, and especially baking. You'll often find her in the RISE kitchen making donuts or brownies all by herself!
Parker
Jessica
Allison
Parker is eager to learn and quick to say, "My pleasure!" He enjoys helping customers and his teammates while bringing a positive, hardworking attitude to every shift.
Allison
Jessica
Allison
Allison is confident, capable, and always ready to jump in. She loves working with customers and making sure orders are done just right.
Our Partnership with bloom work & play
RISE coffee & tea proudly partners with bloom work & play to provide meaningful, hands-on vocational learning experiences within our café.
Bloomers participate in volunteer-based vocational rotations at RISE as part of their day program. These rotations are designed to help individuals practice real-world workplace skills in a supportive, inclusive environment.
During their time at RISE, bloomers may work alongside our team to practice skills such as:
- Following routines and multi-step directions
- Communication and teamwork
- Time awareness and task completion
- Professional behavior in a workplace setting
- Serving others with care and purpose
You’ll often see bloomers wearing shirts that read “We rise by helping others.” This reflects the heart of our partnership which is learning through service, contribution, and community connection.
These volunteer rotations allow bloomers to build confidence, explore interests, and develop transferable skills while being supported every step of the way. Together, RISE and bloom are committed to creating spaces where everyone belongs and has the opportunity to grow.