Impact Report:
Our First Two Years

2023-2025

Our Mission

Through this café, we aim to build relationships, confidence, and connections.

Our mission is to operate a community destination café offering craft food and beverages, prepared and served by employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Our Founders

Natalie Griffin
Co-Founder, Board President

Amy Philpott
Co-Founder, Board Vice President

A Word From Our Founders

Like any new venture, the past two years have brought both successes and challenges. Our greatest joy remains the growth of our teammates. Over these two years, we have watched their confidence, skills, independence, and leadership flourish. Their progress is the heartbeat of our organization and the clearest proof that inclusive employment transforms lives.

We have also been humbled by the generosity of donors, partners, volunteers, customers, and the community who have strengthened our presence in Arlington Heights and deepened the understanding of our mission. This visibility matters — because awareness creates opportunity, and opportunity changes lives.

As we enter our next chapter, our priorities remain clear: stay true to our mission and deepen our impact. We know sustained sales growth is essential. We remain focused on strengthening both our café operations and expanding our catering program.

To everyone who has helped bring Gerry’s Café to life, thank you. Your belief in the mission fuels every opportunity created.

With Gratitude,

Natalie Griffin & Amy Philpott
Co-Founders
Brewing Opportunities / Gerry’s Café

Profiles in Coffee

John Will
General Manager

John Will serves as General Manager of Gerry’s Café, bringing a deep personal commitment to inclusion, dignity, and the belief that every adult deserves meaningful employment. As a former teacher and longtime advocate in the disability community, John has spent decades working to shift perceptions and create environments where people with disabilities are treated as capable, contributing adults. For him, the mission is powerful: “My neurodiverse children taught me that Down syndrome is not a deficit, but a different way of thinking.” He says Gerry's is about changing the narrative. “Not everyone communicates in the same ways, but that does not mean low quality of life.”

He believes Gerry’s gives adults a fair chance at meaningful employment: “This is their chance.” John is motivated each day by the teammates themselves. “They want to be taken seriously and treated like competent adults,” he says. He sees their growth every day as they practice communication, responsibility, and job skills. John sees his role as helping each person reach their potential: “This is not a job — my goal when I walk into Gerry’s is to help them feel valued.” John describes how Gerry’s has helped reshape community attitudes. Before opening, he spent months educating the public: “People need to hear stories about individuals with disabilities. It changes their thinking before they ever walk through the door.”

At Gerry’s, John sees the creation of a family-like culture. Positive adult interactions, he emphasizes, truly matter. He believes the choice to support Gerry’s is also a choice to invest in opportunity. Gerry’s is designed so every teammate can operate on a level playing field. John shares how one teammate was promoted from barista to crew leader — a moment of pride not only for her but for the entire team. Another teammate became confident, engaged, and successful in ways she had never been before.

Laura Shaffer
Crew Member

“I wanted a job where I could do many different things and be independent,” says Laura Shaffer. After interviewing, she joined the team in 2023 — bringing with her six years of experience in customer-service skills such as using the register, stocking shelves, and helping customers. From her first day, Laura felt something special, describing Gerry’s as “a fun place to work where I’ve made many friends” and a workplace where people with disabilities “feel accepted and supported.” Her strong work experience and positive attitude quickly stood out, and in April she was promoted to Crew Member — a moment she calls “the best thing to happen.”

In her leadership role, Laura helps train teammates, oversees processes, and assists customers and volunteers. She is especially proud of supporting quality control in the bakery — “making sure the glaze is evenly spread on the scones” — she also has learned new skills such as closing and opening the café. Laura’s growth extends beyond work. She now lives independently in her own apartment, a milestone she cherishes. “My success at Gerry’s played a big role in helping me get here,” she shared. She loves her quiet neighborhood, friendly neighbors, and having “space to myself.” Her family is “very proud” of all she has accomplished, and she loves seeing family and friends visit the café. “I feel happy and excited when they come to enjoy our service,” she said. She also loves watching customers connect with the mission: “Everyone is happy when they come in because they get to experience people with disabilities serving them and greeting them with a smile. It’s a very joyful experience.” Looking ahead, Laura hopes to continue growing at Gerry’s Café. “I want to keep learning and helping others.” She offers heartfelt advice to new applicants: “Be yourself. Be confident in yourself.”

David Ha
Barista

At Gerry’s Café, David Ha has discovered not only a workplace but a community that celebrates his gifts. “Gerry’s felt like the perfect place for me,” David shared, “and I knew right away I wanted to be part of it.” Inspired by baristas crafting intricate latte art designs on Instagram, he began learning how to similarly express himself creatively. During training, he practiced what would later become the popular “Gerry’s Heart” latte. “Once I nailed it, I felt amazing,” he said with pride. As he grew more confident behind the counter, he realized, “This was meant to happen.”

Working at Gerry’s has transformed David’s confidence. He believes that his work — and that of his teammates — demonstrates to the world what inclusive hiring can do. “People don’t always know what we’re capable of,” David explained. “But once they see us in action, everything changes.” He especially loves being part of an environment where kindness, teamwork, and creativity shape every day. “People feel at home here,” David shared. “They’re greeted warmly, and we serve really good food.” He believes first-time visitors immediately sense Gerry’s welcoming mission and community spirit. David hopes the café continues to grow — and one day expands into new locations. “I want more people to have chances like I did.” He also hopes that families of young adults with special needs will feel encouraged knowing Gerry’s is a safe, inspiring place where individuals can thrive.

Joanne Carlson
Parent

As the mother of Samantha, a proud teammate at Gerry’s Café, Joanne Carlson speaks with deep emotion about what Gerry’s has meant for her entire family. She describes the café as “the thing we didn't know we needed!” and shares that countless families feel the same sense of gratitude. “We aren't sure where we would be without Gerry’s,” she reflects. The café has become a place of transformation, acceptance, and joy for Samantha — and a source of hope for Joanne. Before joining Gerry’s team, Samantha would never have said she wanted to work. Today, work is a central part of her identity. Joanne explains that Samantha was once overwhelmed by direct communication and workplace expectations, but through her time at the café, Samantha has developed confidence, stronger communication skills, and a sense of independence that continues to grow. Samantha still dreams of even greater independence, and Gerry’s has helped shape that vision for her future.

Joanne describes Gerry’s Café as a place where individuals of all abilities are embraced — visually impaired teammates, those with hearing differences, and especially those within the ESD community. “There's a lot of need in the world for people to have a place to belong,” she says. Samantha feels that sense of belonging every day. She enjoys being part of a trendy café environment, connecting with customers, and building friendships with her coworkers. She also admires and looks up to her managers, John and Shannon, who have supported her growth. Joanne notes that Samantha is more understanding and attuned to others since joining Gerry’s. Samantha's work at Gerry’s brings her joy. She loves inventing new drinks and even receives requests from customers for her summer menu creations. Joanne smiles when she says, “This is her place.” The community response reinforces Samantha's pride. Joanne reflects, “Once people know it's a nonprofit, they realize every purchase supports someone's livelihood directly. This is a way to lift yourself up by helping others.”

At 25, Samantha's path to Gerry’s feels both intentional and serendipitous. She trained in job programs through UIC and attended Harper College for two years in an adult transition program. Then, one day, Joanne read an article in the Naperville paper about the opening of Gerry’s Café. She immediately called. For Joanne, Gerry’s Café represents far more than a workplace — it is a community of hope. She notes that friends and family will gladly drive a half hour just to support the mission. She believes every visit to the café affirms something meaningful: “Seeing bright, happy, and productive employees is valuable.” Joanne encourages others to experience the joy of simply sitting at the café and witnessing what inclusion looks like in action.

Investors in Coffee

Matt Gambs
Investor, Supporter, Advocate

Matt Gambs has been connected to Gerry’s Café since before it opened — first as a community partner and now as a dedicated advocate for its mission. As Wintrust's Chief Impact Officer, with seven years of experience in local economic development and deep personal ties to the founders, Matt brings a thoughtful, strategic understanding of how Gerry’s fits into the broader fabric of Arlington Heights. He immediately saw how the mission could serve the community and offer meaningful employment opportunities. Something he recognizes as a rarity.

To Matt, Gerry’s Café is a community builder. He notes that the café brings visibility to individuals who are often overlooked. He values seeing teammates gain confidence, develop new skills, and even become employable at other businesses. For Matt, Gerry’s Café represents dignity, belonging, and pride — not only for teammates but for the broader community. He says people want to support businesses that stand for something real. To him, Gerry’s is powerful because it provides the public with a joyful, meaningful place to gather. To him, Gerry’s is a mission at work.

Thomas Petermann
Investor, Supporter, Advocate

For Thomas Petermann, supporting Gerry’s Café is both personal and purposeful. A longtime Arlington Heights resident, retired CEO, and devoted family man, Thomas immediately saw the promise in a mission built on dignity, employment, and community. He has remained a steadfast champion ever since and is continually inspired by the pride, joy, and confidence he sees in Gerry’s Café teammates. He notes how happy and present everyone seems — both staff and customers — and how that authentic warmth sets Gerry’s apart. Thomas values initiatives that are led with heart and mission, and was an “early adopter,” given the dedication of Amy and Natalie in bringing the café to life.

Thomas sees visibility and awareness as essential to Gerry’s long-term growth. He actively encourages outreach, championing events such as the golf outing and even imagines future “pop-up” events to expand the café’s reach. Thomas often speaks about stewardship, gratitude, and the power of community. He believes donors want to know they are making a meaningful difference — and at Gerry’s Café, he sees that difference every day.Thomas sees visibility and awareness as essential to Gerry’s long-term growth. He actively encourages outreach, championing events such as the golf outing and even imagines future “pop-up” events to expand the cafés reach. Thomas often speaks about stewardship, gratitude, and the power of community. He believes donors want to know they are making a meaningful difference — and at Gerry’s Café, he sees that difference every day.

Collaborators in Coffee

Mary Beth Canty
Illinois State Representative

As an Illinois State Representative, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact that innovative, community-centered models have on the lives of families, workers, and the broader public. Gerry’s Café stands out as a shining example of what is possible when a mission-driven vision becomes reality. Gerry’s Café offers more than a cup of coffee — it provides a sense of community, belonging, and purpose. People walk into Gerry’s and immediately feel the warmth and connection. It is a place where individuals feel seen, valued, and welcomed. “People valued for more than just productivity — people valued for being part of the community,” is how I would describe the environment that Amy and Natalie have created.

Meaningful employment is life-changing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Gerry’s Café delivers this with intention and heart. The café has become a place where individuals not only gain workplace skills but also confidence, independence, and a deep sense of belonging. I see the pride the staff have in the work they do — the dignity that comes from having a job that matters.

People often ask what makes Gerry’s special. The answer is simple: Gerry’s helps the community do something they need to do anyways — be better, more welcoming, more compassionate. It changes the way people think. It shifts attitudes, broadens perspectives, and reminds us of the worth of every individual. As I’ve said before, “If more young people understood what Gerry’s does, they would fill the place.”

Running a nonprofit café model comes with challenges, but despite these obstacles, Gerry’s remains grounded in its mission and continues to provide meaningful service to the people it serves and the larger community.

Representative work like this strengthens communities, expands opportunity, and sets an example for what inclusive employment can look like. It shows what is possible when people choose empathy and purpose over pure efficiency. Every community should be so fortunate to have a Gerry’s Café — an anchor of hope, dignity, and joyful inclusion.

Dr. Scott Rowe
District 214 Superintendent

For Dr. Scott Rowe, Superintendent of High School District 214, the partnership with Gerry’s Café represents far more than a programmatic collaboration — it is a shared belief in what is possible when young adults are given meaningful opportunities to learn, work, and belong. Dr. Rowe describes the transition out of high school as one of the most delicate moments in a young person’s life. For many students and their families, the future can feel uncertain. Gerry’s Café provides something rare and transformative: a real workplace that feels both steady and supportive — a place where young adults develop confidence, independence, and the rhythms of daily adult life. “It is an environment rooted in genuine belonging,” he says, and one that helps students step boldly into adulthood.

What makes Gerry’s Café so special to the Northwest Suburban community? People walk in and feel seen. “Customers return not only for good food or coffee, but because they feel part of a shared community.” This mirrors District 214’s own vision — a commitment to belonging for every student and family. In the café, he sees those same values brought to life outside the classroom: a community strengthened by inclusion, dignity, and shared joy.

Dr. Rowe emphasizes that Gerry’s Café is not a symbolic enterprise — it is a fully functioning business where adults make real contributions, gain real experience, and engage in meaningful work that promotes independence.

“The mission is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity to grow and participate fully in our community,” he says. The impact extends throughout District 214. Students imagine their futures more clearly. Families feel hopeful as they watch loved ones take their place in the community. Teachers see classroom learning transform into workplace success.

When Dr. Rowe hears the name Gerry’s Café, one word rises above the rest: joy. “Gerry’s Café brings the beauty of possibility to the forefront,” he shares. “I think of students building purpose through everyday work. I think of families who see their young adults thriving in the community.”

Dr. Rowe envisions deeper collaboration — coordinated training, shared planning between transition programs and café leadership, and strengthened pathways that help young adults enter adulthood with confidence. “District 214 will continue to support this work because it aligns with our responsibility to prepare students for the full range of life experiences after graduation.”

“Partnerships like this work when they are built with clarity, consistency, and a shared understanding of purpose,” Dr. Rowe reflects. “The focus should be on creating environments where individuals can contribute, grow, and be recognized for their strengths.”lity to prepare students for the full range of life experiences after graduation.”

“Partnerships like this work when they are built with clarity, consistency, and a shared understanding of purpose,” Dr. Rowe reflects. “The focus should be on creating environments where individuals can contribute, grow, and be recognized for their strengths.”

Gerry’s by the Numbers

Teammates

We have 32 teammates who were hired in June 2023 and are all still employed at Gerry's. We are very proud of retaining the 32 employees with IDD. They are all truly dedicated to doing their very best and love working here.

Volunteers

Currently, we have 42 dedicated volunteers in the cafe, along with eight subs. Some of our volunteers have been with us since day one and have remarked that their volunteer shift at Gerry's is the best day of their week! Over 10,158 hours recorded.

Top Treat

Our number one seller in 2025 was the Cran-Orange Scone, followed by the Chocolate Chip Scone, and in third place is the gluten-free Blueberry Muffin! All pastry items are baked from scratch, in-house by our exceptional employees with support from volunteers.

Fun Fact

In 2024, we sold 2,627 Blueberry Muffins over the year, which means we sold about 51 muffins a week, or approximately 7.5 every day.

2024-2025 Awards Received

Daily Herald Reader’s Choice Best of the Best Coffeehouse 2024 & 2025

Illinois Made Class of 2025
from the Illinois Office
of Tourism

The Professional
Baseball Athletic
Trainers Society Awards

We are committed to operating with transparency. Our goal is simple: ensure every donation directly supports meaningful employment and training opportunities for adults with disabilities in our community.

Financial Stewardship

View our Financial Statement

Open Hearts to Open Doors

Gerry’s Café is extremely grateful to our donors for their generous gifts to support our employees and our café.

Listed are contributions received from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025

Heart of Gerry’s: $50,000+

Transformational supporters whose gifts ensure long-term sustainability

Invited Foundation - Rolling Green Country Club

The Morsches Family Fund

Wintrust Financial

Visionary Partner: $25,000 - $49,999

Major donors whose generosity shapes Gerry’s future

The Beth J. Drost Family Fund

ClubCorp Charities, Inc. - Rolling Green Country Club

Ambassador of Hope: $10,000 - $24,999

Community leaders championing growth and awareness

Michele J. Armenia

Denise and Paul Bujak

Meg and Dick Cagney | Rose Cagney

Wendy Davis

Natalie and Gene Griffin | ALL Gerry's Employees

Michael and Eleanor Kanis

Jim and Angie Perkins | Kevin Johnson

Tom Petermann

Amy Philpott and Chris Nisbet

Edward J. Wehmer

Gina and Tony Will | Gerry Will

Congregation Beth Judea

Advocate of Opportunity: $5,000 - $9,999

Contributors empowering meaningful employment

Linda Arentz

Jeanne and Mike Borta | Marilyn McCabe

Heidi Carp

Jim and Mary Ann Jahrling

Cindy and George Nisbet

Paz Family Foundation

Debbie Watson

Bethany and Ryan Woodward

100 Women Who Care - N.W. Suburban Chicago

Berkshire Hathaway Starck Real Estate

Christie’s International Real Estate Gives Back

D. Nellies Properties, LLC

Emmrick Electric

GTM Growth Strategy, LLC

Hey Nonny

LRS Recycles

Milk Jar | Holly Singer

REEDecorating, Inc.

Supporter of Inclusion: $1,000 - $4,999

John and Gloria Amling
Mary Beth Ayres
Greg and Mary Baur
Mary and Robert Bedford | Gerry Wehmer & Rose Cagney
Beihoffer Family
David and Pamela Boyle
Tim and Pat Boyle
Kathleen and Gregory Burns | Jeffrey T. Burns
Patrick Cagney | Gerry Wehmer & Rose Cagney
Barbara Cameron
Frank Patzke and Susan Carsello
Greg Carso
Fred and Lynn Castillo
Christina Dimas and Keith Shaffer | Daughter Laura Shaffer
Linda and Mike Dolan
Patti Faerber
The Gilbert Family
Ray Glassmann
Rick and Chelle Good
Chris and Vanessa Griffin
Terry and Deanna Griffin
Brian and Ainslie Groark
Larry and Janice Gualano
Jae Ha and Karen Ha
David and Ann Heeren
James Hinchsliff
The Howland Family
Michael Imrem
Vicki Jacobsen and Jean Schlinkmann
The Kar-Ali Family
Brent Khazei
Mark and Mary Beth Knoeppel
Keith and Christy Knox
Sean Koelbl
Kerry and Geralyn Lavelle
Jim & Kim Lemperis and Family Charitable Fund
Maryfran H. Leno
Don and Cindy Malin
Greg Salzman and Maria Mangler
Robert K. and Janine M. McDonald
Patrick M. McKeown
Amy and Michael Meehan
Barbara Mengarelli
The Mercola Family Charitable Fund
Brian Milligan
Matt Pablecas
Bradford and Jenny Scott
Margaret Sheehan
Jane Solinsky
Kent Stocking | Pam Stocking
Heather Thornton
Michael Tunney | John Tunney
Dawn Walsh
Carrie and Kurt Winter
All Saints Lutheran Church
Amcor Cares Foundation
Aria Group Architects, Inc.
Blackbaud Community Matters Central Grant
District 214
District 214 Retirees Association
Forbici Salon and Spa
Green Courte Partners, LLC
Grainger
Holy Rosary Auxiliary, Knights of Columbus
Illinois State Council, Knights of Columbus
ITW Retiree Outreach Group
Knights of Columbus, HRC #4483
Laughing Acres Family Foundation, Inc.
Mainstreet Organization of Realtors
Marana Group
Master Educational Assistance Foundation
Perma-Seal Fund
Rotary Club of Arlington Heights
St. James Parish
St. Peter Lutheran Church
Steven’s Jewelers

Friend of Gerry’s: $999 and under

Susan Abbott
Nicole Aceron
Michelle Adams
Jan Adelman
Marynda Agnew
Marlys Akin
Anjelina Alberga
Monica Albertson
Ann Alegnani
Maura and Munawar Cullen Ali | Daughter Amina Grace
Debbie Allbright
Sarah and Michael Allen
Corinne Allison
Cindy Alton
Doris Alton
Kathy Alvarez
Susan Andersen
Veronica Andersen | Nicki and Riley
Andrea Anderson
The Randall Anderson Family | Garrett Anderson
Gene and Kelly Andrasco
Rita Angelini
Jim and Cathy Angell
Ericka Arbour
Maureen Ault
Bob and Nancy Bachmann
Pam Balcer
Jennifer Baratta
Nicole Bare
Christopher and Lois Barnes
Danielle Barnett
Ryan Barr
The Barr Family
Leda Bartolomei
Brian Bedford
Holly Belconis
Karen Belka
Bella
Anthony Belmonte
Belzak Family | Daughter Zosia Belzak
Douglas Benjamin
Cheryl Bergeon
Brandi Best
Joanne Bianchi
Carolyn Bickel
Megan and Tim Biggam
Kathy Blancett
Christy Blaze
Ann Bokor
Mary Borowiak
Catherine Borst
Sam Borta
Amy Bouchard
Charnell Brady
Scott Brandt
Judith and John Brault
Kathleen Breault | Kiera Breault
Ronna Brenner
David Brooks
Jamie Brooks Family
Beatrice Brown
Robert Brownson
Tom Bruno Jr.
Linda Burke
Natalie Burrow
Julie and Jonathan Byars
Leo and Rose Cagney | Geralyn Wehmer
Mike and Ann-Marie Cagney
Geraldine and Christopher Campbell
Nate Campbell
Nicole Campbell
Melissa Canning
Joe Carbonara
Tami Carrillo
Karen Nelson Carter
Lynn Casale
Scott Cassidy
Luisa Catanese
Junalee Centeno
Madison Cesario
Kathy Chameli
Connie Chandler
Suzann Chester
Lisa Chu
Kevin Chua
Kimberly Chung
Robbie Cichon
Claudia Cirrincione | Sarah Allen
Karen Cirrincione
Deb and Art Clamage | Rose Cagney
Renee Clark
Jeanne and Dave Cleary
Ann Clifford
Janice Cobe
Juli Coffaro
Sue and Jim Coleman
Kaycee Coles
Katie Comer
Sue Connor
Kate Conway
Peggy Cooney
Sandra Corso
Terri Cortese
Jack and Kate Costello
Joe Crimmins
K. de la Cruz
Linda Czyz
Krystyna Dabrowska
Anna D'Agostino
Cathy Danial
Mary and Jim Dano | Son Roarke Dano
Drew Darrey
Bevan Das
Elizabeth Daulton
Nancy Davis
Salvatore L. DeCola
Patricia DeHoff
Renatta Delfino
Joe DeMarco
Christine Demski
Tiffany Deramos
Deborah A. De Salvo
Susan DeSilva | Son Tom DeSilva
James Detloff
Alexander DiCola
Anna DiCola
Elizabeth A. Di Cola
Michelle DiCristo
Dorothy Dimas
Tara Dodaro
Luci Donnan
Eileen Dorn
Diane Dougherty
Janice Dray
Roy DSouza
Cheryl Duda
Douglas Duda
Mary Duffey
Kevin Dunham
Cathy Dunlap
Barbara Dunsheath
Mick Duran
Cher Dyle
Ellen Dziaba
Jim and Jennifer Edkins
Regan Ehrman
Stephanie Eide
Erika Eng
John and Karen Engstrom
Haley Epstine
Carol Ezell
Mike and Maureen Fabbri
Rudy and Cindy Facchini
Brent and Jamie Fagerburg
Deborah Farley
Mary Farley
Michele Farrell
Susan Farrell
Gregory Fenton
Jean Fenton
Amy Ferraro
Terry Filippi
Richard Firnbach
Russell Fitton
Mary Beth Flanders
Mary Flink
Larry Fogel | Lynne Morrow
Alexa Forman
Mark Fowler
Wendi Frederick
Randy and Lisa Freeman | Nate Freeman
Tom and Maureen French
Robert and Cindy Frenzer
Michael and Jane Frey
George D. Frigelis
Cindy Frisch
Wayne and Dawn Fritz
Pete Froehlich
Brent Funk
Dave and Kathleen Gabriel & St. Pat’s Neighborhood
Deb Gabriel
Richard and Kathy Gallant
Kevin Gallery
Lindsay Galvan
Hilary Peterson Galvez
Mary Gammariello
Bob and Michelle Gammelgaard
Arnie Garcia
Kimberly Garrity
Megan Bedford Garvy
Melissa Gatsios
Crystal Gausden
Lauren Gavin
Elizabeth Gerard
Mariam Ghaith
Barbara Giambalvo
Amy Gibson
Ann Gillespie
Alexandra Gillies
Mark Gillis
Cheryl Glassmann
Erin Goelitz
Sarah Goesling
The Goldish Family Fund
Emily Goldsmith
Nancy Gonzalez
Robert Gonzalez
Lisa Gorsage
Margaret Goss
Christine Gotschewski
Silvia Grabacki
Elizabeth Grabowski
Sarah Graceffa
The Adam Grainawi Fund
Susan E. Green
Mary Greene
Janet Greenhill
The Grossman Family
Kristine Gruzewski
Barb Gugliotta
Pete Gugliotta
Lindsay Guido
Melissa Guilfoyle
Nancy Guilfoyle
Rebecca Gurion
Christina Hahn
Erin Haltek
Rita Hamann
Jennifer Hansen
Cheriann Hanson
Bryan Hargrove
Alison Harrald
Virginia Harren
Amanda Hartman
Malia Haynes
Taylor A. Heald-Sargent
James Hemmerle
Cynthia Henderson
Constance Heneghan
Colleen Hepner
Abbey Heredia
Amanda Heredia
Kenneth Herrmann
Mary Font Herrmann
Adam Higham
David Higham
Danielle Hiller
Penny Hirsch
Paula Hoerner
David Hogaboom and Colleen Gaughan
Sarah and Jason Hogan
Cindy Hollenbeck
Laura Hollis
Jessie Hopkins
Nicole Hopkins
Theresa Horcher
Don and Christy Horn
Sharon Hornig
Cathy Hornung
Janet Hulet
Rachel Hume
Molly Hupp
Patty Hurst
Kate Hutchinson | Son Ramon
Kathy Hyland
Janet E. Iacovelli
Sandra Imes
Temirlan Iminzhanov
Angela Ingham
Rhonda Irving
Sharon Jackson
David Jaffe
Marybeth Janak
Daniel N. Janich
Rachel Jarosik
Chris Jarosz
Jeanine M. Jasica Foundation
Dr. Vicki Jay | Anita Ness
AJ Jayswal
Laurel Hoppert Joa
Lisa and Brent Johnson
Mary Johnson
Karen Johnstone
Callie Joncas
Anne and Jerry Jordan
Reuben Joseph
Patti Jostes
Julie Justie
Sanjay and Kunjal Kadiwala
Jennifer Kaiz
Brent Kallstrom
Molly and Karl Kalsch
Thomas Kalsch
Ann and John Kaminski
Jackie Kapcheck
Lindsay Kaplan
Kenneth Kasper
Kevin Katovich
Don Kauffold
Elizabeth Kauz
Leah Kazaglis
Ilona Kazmer
Cyndi Kemp
Kathryn Kemp
John and Mary Kenesey
Kathryn Kennedy
Leeza Kennedy
Tina Khurana
Kirsten Kingsley
Yasmin Kinton
Leslie Klancnik
Bill and Randal Ann Klaproth
Michael and Renee Klass
Kelly Kleen
Jim Kniola
Karen Koegler
Tom Koelzer
Den and Jinny Koide
Marcey Kolb
Linda Kolbusz-Kosan
Judy Kolet
The Kontney Family
Daniel Kosiba
Jean Koter
Danny Kouoruklis
Greg Kozak
Paige Krause
Adele Krueger | Philip A. Krueger
Gary Krugel
Michel Kucera
Lawrence Kuehn
Priscilla Kuehn
Una Kuhfuss
Terra and Mark Kulpins
Steve and Jill Kuscsik
Mary Ann Ann Labuhn
Barbara Lach
Lisa LaGorio
Smeralda Lamberti
Megan Lampros
Deborah Landhauser
Laporte Family
Sara LaPorte
Garrett Larkin
Glenn Larson
Jane Latko
Laura Lavanne
Patricia Lebanik
Mark Leber
Jackie Lederer
Colleen LeSaar
Judy Leska
Janet Levin
Sara Lewandowski
David and Michele Lewis
Isabelle Libmann
Pamela Lilly
Lalaine Linderman
Charles Little
Brooke Lord
Lori Lovelace
Alison Lueckfeld
Thomas Luedloff
William and Lynne Luehrs
MaryElizabeth Luitjohan
Jerry and Sheila Lullo
Joanne Lundquist
Jennie Lussow
Elizabeth Lynch
Margaret Lynn
Lynn Lyons
Linda Macek
Marty Maher
Mica Mahler
Julie Maiers
Barb Majer
Jayne Majzan
Julianna Manning
Cary Marchese
Marchi Family Charitable Foundation
Debbie Marino
Myriam Mora Marquez
Jill Marsteller
Ann Martin
Chris Martin
Marikay Martin
Tim and Beth Martin
William Martin
Carol Martini
Mary Lynn Massa | Art Massa
Catharine Masters
Catherine Mataloni
Linda Maxfield
Barbara Mazursky
Elaine McCabe
Thomas McCabe
Susan McConnell
Jeff McCutchan
Terri McDonnell
Annette K. McErlean
Ted McGinn
Denise and Tom McGlade
Brooke Mcgrath
Kelly McGrath
Lori McKendree
Penelope B. McKenna
Caitlin Mckenzie
Patricia McLaughlin-Fahey
Bob and Sue McVey
Amanda McWhorter
Mary Meagher
Jean Medina
Bob and Julie Mercola
Loula Merkel
Suzanne Mersch
Jim and Martha Messer
Dana Messmer
Judith Meyer
Isabel Michniak
Gavin Millay
Beth Miller | Hannah
Christina Miller
Darroll and Darcie Miller
Rick and Karen Mirro
Conor Mitchell
Emily Mitchell
Mike and Laura Mleko
Bridgitt Montijo
Emily Moore
Kathleen Moore
Nita Furlong Moore
Todd Moore
Megan Moritz
Mary Morrissey
Deborah Morton
Adah Moulton
Michael Mulder
Jill Mullens
Cindy Mulligan
Cindy and Steve Munson
Leslie Murphy
Cathy Muskal
Rachel Muthui
Sandy Nagrant
Ramona Navitsky
Mary Rose Neises
Dina Nelson
Susan Neu
Mary Newhauser
Cindy Noah
Carolyn Nopar
Francine Norling
Beryl Norman
Terri Norris
Charlene Nottolini
Maritza Nowakowski
Anastasia Nye
Kate O’Brien and Dave Rice
Kevin O’Brien
Terry O’Brien
Charles and Judy O’Malley
Ken and Jackie O’Rilley
Natalie Ocon
Carol Okamoto
Jill Okolita
Karyn and Dave Okon
Agnes Olejniczak
Kathy Oleson
Barbara Olinski
Pam Orr
Margaret Oskorep
Muxiang Pajerski
Joe Palmer
Moira Palmer
Karen Palomo
Kris Papa
Nancy Pappa Gift Fund
Johanna Papadimitriou
Jane Park
The Parker Family
Sarah Parks
Richard Parsons
Hannah and Nick Patel
Shefali Patel
Michael Paulsen
Kassandra Peck
Taylor Pennington
Nancy Pepe
Kristine Olson Perkins | Herb Olson
Ellen Pesch
Ashley Peszek
Lee Ann Peter
Sara Petiprin
Carolyn Petro
Georgie Pfeiffer
Jim and Katie Philpott | Jim Philpott
John Philpott
Michael Philpott
Pamela Picirillo
Dharan Pitta
Nadine Pomilia
Kelly Pontius
Karen Popke
Diana Powitz
Mugsy Pragalz
Mary Preissing
Gina Quatrochi
Katie Rabs
Richard Rabs
Debbie Ranieri
Elaine Rau
Charles and Rosemary Rawleigh
Jack Rebman
Michael Rebman
Shelli Rebman
Donna Reboletti
Lara Rebsamen
Karen Reichart
John Reilly
Mary Reising / St. James Ladies Golf League
The Reiss Family
Cynthia M. Rendel
Michael Rice
Lidia Rich
Shana Richard
Chris and Tim Richards
Dave and Cathy Richardson
Pamela Rieger
Kimberley Ringgenberg
Heather Ritter | Sam Ritter
Regina Rizoli
Maura Roche
Melanie Rodriguez
Julie Rognstad
Melissa Roop
Eric, Lisa, EJ, Anthony and Pauly Roque
Laura Roscoe
Bert Rosenberg
Genevieve Rosenberg
Richard Rosenberg
Bob and Debby Ross Charitable Donation Fund
Tanya Roy
Lorra Rudman
Maryann Ryan
Arden S. | Rev. Lynne Morrow
Lucy Fernandez Salazar
Susan Sallas
Sangchantr Family | Son Mateo
Paul Sawicki
Ciro and Robin Scaletta
Vince and Jennifer Scaletta
Mary Jo Scarpelli
Julie Schaefges
Gail Schauer
Patrick Scheibler
Patrick Schleker
John and Rita Schmid
Teri Schmidt
Margie Schmoldt
Robert S. Schneider
Judy Schoenfeld
Jim and Colleen Schoessling
Meghan Scholnick
Chester M. Schreiber
Sarah Schrempf
Julie Scott | Jamie
Carol Cinnick Selgrad
Zorry Serafimova
Ginny Sexton
Mike and Eileen Sheehan
Ellen Shepley | Michelle Shepley
Julia Shuff
Ken Simpson
Omeed Adham Sindy
Carrie Sitko
Kurt and Susan Skrudland
Mark Slaughter
Jennifer Sloan
Lisa Smith
Sindi and Don Smith
Colleen Soltis-McGraw
Lynn Sommer
Kerry Spalding
Herbert Spalding
Kristen Speck
Kathy Spiess
Ann Spieth
Jeff and Linda Spitz
Mary Springberg
Lisa Sprovieri
Dolores St. John
Lynn Stachura
Tom and Jody Stautzenbach | Herb Olson
Janet Stavnes
Nancy Stazy
Michelle Stever
Jane Stimac-Seng
Jim and Anne Stipanowich
Robert Storozuk
Dierdre Strass
Carrie Stutzman
Howard Sussman
Sharon Sweeney
Afreen Syed
Michelle Szczeshy
Elizabeth Szopinski
Kristi Takagishi
Ann M. Tarczon
The Joan Tatje Family Fund
Katie Tessendorf
Magda M. Thaller
Huyen Thayer
Jacqueline Thibert
Dawn Thome
Joan Tobin
John and Terri Todesco
Kim Torvik
Ann Tovella
Karen Trachsel
Linda Trachsler
Edward Treick
Sandra Troiano
Karen Trzaska
Kevin Tunney
Pam Tunney
Lisa Tworek
Sarah Tylkowski
Colleen and David Ungurean
Kathy Di Valerio
Amanda Valle
Caren Van Dervort
Allison Vargas
Jim Vaselopulos
Georgia Vasilias
John Velinski
Dave Verdico
Diane Vetter
Louis Vieceli
Alexandra Vikartofsky
Lisa Vohwinkle
Andrew Volz
Ann Walker
Jen Walker
Leslie Walsh
Lynnea Walsh
Michelle Walsh
Jeff Waltuck
Arlyn Webb
Lindsay Weber
Maureen Philpott Webster | Gerry Wehmer
Susan Weekly
Wehrle Family
Nancy Wentink
Denise Whitefield
Taylor Whitlock
Lynn Wiggington
Kelly Wilcox
Duane Wilken
The Will Family | Bill and Gerry Will
Terrence Willason
Angela Williams
Nicole Williams
Rachel Williams
Sharon Williams
Tracy Williams
Peggy Wilson
Mary Ellen Witte
Dean Witter
Zachary Wojtowicz
Arlene Wolf
Linda Workman
Kathleen Yablonicky
Sharon Yale
Leslie Ferris Yerger
Derrick Yeo
Martin Zacharia | Lynne Morrow
Cynthia Zarcone
Adrienne Zaucha
Nicole Ziegler
Carol Zielinski
Nicole Zielske
Randi Zitron
Lee Zucker
Nora Zwieg
Abbott
Abbvie
Always Be Connecting
Blackbaud Giving Fund - AbbVie Employee Giving
BMO Financial Group
CDW and its donors
Chapter KF of PEO Sisterhood
Chicago Marathon Event Management, Inc.
Cindy Frenzer - Interiors 4 U
Community Church of Barrington
Cook Cork & Fork
Doctors at North Arlington Pediatrics
Dream Clean Car Wash
First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights
FUMCAH United Women in Faith
Grace Unfolding Yoga
John Hersey High School
Kathleen Heitmann Art
Kendra Scott Deer Park
Knights of Columbus, Holy Ghost Council #4977
Luxe Wearhouse
Mount Prospect School District 57
Navigant Law
Patton Elementary School
PEO of Schaumburg Pop-Up Donations
Presbyterian Church Women’s Group
Ranka Photography
R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd.
Stevenson High School Math Department
St. Raymond’s Catholic Church Pop-Up Event
St. Theresa Catholic Church
Tap House Grill Palatine, LLC
The PepsiCo Foundation
Thomas MS Science Olympiad Vendor Event
Township High School District 214
USAA
Westgate Dental Care
Westgate Elementary Staff
Winston Brands Incorporated
Women of St. Gregory of Nyssa
Women's Guild of Immanuel UCC
Z Zurich Foundation

Thank You!

Your support means the world to us. Because of you, we’re serving more smiles, sharing more meals, and making our community brighter every day.

We couldn’t make this happen without our donors, and thank you for being such an important part of it!

Make a Difference

Gerry's Café is changing lives by providing an extensive training experience that teaches transferable job and life skills. Though we employ 35 adults with disabilities, we’d like to do more. With your help, we can expand Gerry’s Café locations and open related ventures, creating more employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.