Afternoon Drink Stop invites thirsty patrons to HCBDD

It’s a bright, sunshiny afternoon weekday, and what better way to take a few minutes of break time from a busy day than to slow down, get a free cup of java or an iced tea and visit with the students at the Holmes County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

The staff at HCBDD and the students would like to extend a warm welcome to anyone and everyone who would like to take advantage of that very opportunity during the Holmes County Board of Developmental Disabilities Afternoon Drink Stop.

The inaugural event kicked off in late April, and the leadership team at HCBDD would like to turn this event into a monthly occurrence that will be a blessing for both the students and those who stop in for a satisfying coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

“We wanted to start this on a trial basis, but we think it is going to eventually be a neat experience for those who visit as well as a valuable and fun one for our students because it creates meaningful interaction that helps them grow and develop,” said Kim Miller of HCBDD.

Those who stop by can simply stay in their car while the students come up and take their order and then deliver it to them, or they can park and stay and visit while they get and enjoy their drink.

The opportunity to take orders and thank customers gives some of the students a chance to utilize their communication devices, which Miller said is excellent practice for them.

“We are really hoping this becomes a regular monthly thing,” Miller said, noting that with summer school taking place there, they can roll right through the summer.

The event will be posted on the HCBDD Facebook page, and the entire idea was to have this serve as a way for the organization and students to say thank you to the community for the never-ending support it has provided over the years.

Miller said while the drinks are free, if anyone wants to donate to the event, they may do so, and anyone who does will be greeted with big smiles and much gratitude by the students.

The hope is that eventually, the HCBDD will make connections with local schools whose classes for those with special needs also have their own cafes in the school.

Until then, the HCBDD will continue to pilot this new adventure with the hope of building the drive-thru concept to feature drinks, snacks and even light meals in the future.

“We’re excited to see where the journey takes us,” Miller said. “Our students love to connect with anyone and everyone. This is a way for us to see the community without having to go anywhere, which is really awesome.”

The next drive-thru Afternoon Drink Stop at the HCBDD will be Wednesday, May 22 from 1-2 p.m. The organization’s board members will also be there to meet and greet visitors, and the students are eager to meet and serve all of those stopping by for an afternoon refreshment.

HCBDD is located at 8001 Township Road 574 just south of Holmesville.