Visions FCU Supports Key Community Organizations

Little Falls loves its local coffee shop. It’s developed a reputation as a great place to grab a beverage or a bite. But Ethan and the Bean does so much more than brew a great cup of joe. The secret to its success is not in the food or drink. In fact, it’s no secret at all that patrons are supporting a greater cause.

Ethan is the son of Founder Pam Donovan. Ethan has developmental and intellectual disabilities, including autism. Ethan and people like him also have a safe and supportive place to work.

“I’m very excited about Ethan and the Bean and the whole project. I feel that our community needs a place like this for our special needs adults,” supporter Marcia Gurian said. “I’ve been working with special needs students for over 40 years and many of the students I’ve worked with are now adults. We need to find places for these wonderful men and women to become involved in our community and to be employed.”

That’s precisely where Ethan and the Bean comes in. Exclusively staffed by special needs adults and their mentors, Ethan and the Bean is a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. Here, they learn all the ins and outs of running a successful business: from food and beverage preparation to operating the cash register and cleaning up.

Pam and Pat Donovan

“They just need a little support and they’re off and running,” Donovan said. “They are absolutely doing amazing.”

So amazing, in fact, that the organization caught the attention of Visions Federal Credit Union and earned its support through a program called Visions Cares. Visions supports hundreds of causes with donations, employee volunteers, and sponsorships as part of Visions Cares. In this case, Visions shares Ethan and the Bean’s commitment to providing an empowering environment that supports individuals in the workplace.

Ethan

“A training center like this is exactly what’s needed in the world,” said Pam Tepper, a parent to a child with special needs. “I can’t put into words how excited I am to be part of Ethan and the Bean.”

Learn more about the coffee shop at ethanandthebean.com. Visit visionsfcu.org/cares for more about Visions’ commitment to community in New Jersey and beyond.