People create businesses to make money. Others do it to put their name out there. But some, with open hearts, develop companies meant to serve and provide solace to those in need. This is the mission of Cause Coffee, a local coffee shop in De Soto that is aimed to better the lives of people in the community who are struggling and desire a helping hand.
Shop owner Tara Stucky keeps the foundation of the business and the reasons behind its creation in the back of her mind.
“I had a dream since I was fifteen years old of becoming a barista,” Stucky said. “As I got older, I also had a dream of creating something to help others in need…I came up with the idea of a coffee shop that would exist for that purpose.”
Stucky recognizes the injustices against certain people around the world and hopes that the profits made at the coffee shop will benefit their day-to-day lives. Stucky describes how Cause Coffee has impacted both local and international communities.
“Since Cause Coffee has opened its doors, we have been able to give over $80,000 to help out fellow human beings,” Stucky said. “We have given many things locally that help schools, foster kids, a local organization that rescues women from sex trafficking…Globally, we have helped with a school in Nicaragua, an orphanage in Haiti, clean water wells in Uganda and India, and so much more!”
The motivations behind Cause Coffee have been vital in the work environment, as employees continually notice them. Barista Sophia Mateo emphasizes her passion for working for such a beloved company.
“I really love my job, I love my job so much,” Mateo said. “I love getting to talk with my coworkers, doing the tasks themselves when I’m working, and I love customers that come in.”
In light of assisting customers and aiding people around the globe who are fighting against worldly issues, employee Shaylee Christian recognizes the direct impact Stucky has had on the coffee shop.
“During my time working at Cause, I have gotten to see the Stucky family spread their love to those around,” Christian said. “They always aim to make people feel welcome or as if they are part of a family. Of course, their donations make a huge, beautiful difference, but the community they have created lifts people’s spirits daily.”
Cause Coffee baristas and management staff alike still seek improvement from the groundbreaking accomplishments they have already made despite their enormous influence. Mateo elaborates on her desires as a coffee shop employee.
“I hope to achieve giving back what they [the Stucky family] give. Giving out kindness, giving out respect, helping people, being a part of a community,” Mateo said.
Although the shop may be quaint from the outside, the impression it has left on people in De Soto, in America, and worldwide is larger than life. The owners’ selflessness, the employees’ genuineness, and Cause Coffee’s willingness to give back allow more comfort and protection for innocent people who face adversity daily. No matter the flavor of coffee chosen by customers or the amount of money they pay for a piece of pumpkin bread, the warmth and affection of Cause Coffee will help those in need for generations to come.
