Youth Advisory Council Visits Rising Kites Coffee

Youth Advisory Council Visits Rising Kites Coffee: A Lesson in Community, Compassion, and Inclusion

Bridgman, MI – A recent visit to Rising Kites Coffee left a lasting impression on members of the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC), who were welcomed with open arms—and excellent coffee. This meaningful visit was part of a follow-up to a grant YAC awarded earlier this year, supporting the shop’s inclusive mission.

Founded by Danielle Grandholm, Rising Kites is more than just a local café. It's a community hub built on love, resilience, and a passion for inclusion—particularly for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Inspired by her daughter Sammy, who was born with Down Syndrome in 2020, Grandholm envisioned a space where families like hers would never feel alone.

“We wanted to come alongside families like ours to let them know they're supported, they have a community, and that their child is a gift worth celebrating,” Granholm shared with the visiting YAC students.

From matcha lattes and caramel oat milk creations to classic hot chocolate, the students enjoyed every sip—but it was the mission behind the counter that left the biggest impact.

“Rising Kites is a super great organization,” said YAC senior Monse Avina. “It’s amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Through the grant provided by YAC, Rising Kites was able to fund “bags for babies”—thoughtfully curated care packages given to families receiving a Down Syndrome diagnosis. Each bag offers both emotional comfort and helpful resources, sending a powerful message: you are not alone.

Beyond its beverages and bright, welcoming décor, Rising Kites serves something even greater—a powerful example of what can happen when compassion meets action. The students walked away not only inspired but also with a renewed commitment to inclusive leadership.

“It’s important to start thinking outside of your own perspective at a young age,” Granholm told the group. “Spaces like this show that the world needs more places where everyone feels like they belong.”

For many YAC members, the visit reaffirmed why they do what they do.

“YAC helps you grow as a leader and as a person,” one student reflected. “It gives you the chance to make a real impact.”

Rising Kites Coffee is more than a coffee shop—it’s a growing movement that celebrates difference, invites everyone to the table, and brews a better, more inclusive community every day. And thanks to the support of the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation and its dedicated Youth Advisory Council, that community continues to grow—one cup, one conversation, and one care package at a time.

For more info on Rising Kites visit: https://www.risingkitescoffee.org/