Eagle Scout Candidate opens Hugs & Mugs coffee shop at Gigi’s Playhouse

These days you can get a cup of coffee pretty much anywhere, but there’s a new spot in town you just have to try! It’s called hugs and mugs, and it’s run by workers with down syndrome.

The cool thing about this coffee shop is that it’s a pop-up shop, meaning it could shop up anywhere! Your business, school, or event. And you’ll never meet a more friendly barista.

“This job is easy. I like it. I’m so grateful. My favorite part is making stuff and giving it to the customer,” not only is it 38-year old Jamie Rennhack’s first job, this is his first day on the job! And he’s already learned that it’s all about keeping the customer’s mug full.

“I feel much more comfortable. It makes me glad the customer is happy,” said Rennhack.

Jamie and other adults with down syndrome can thank boy scout Marc Pacheco for this pop-up coffee shop. He and other volunteers built it as part of his eagle scout project.

From the moment Marc walked into Gigi’s playhouse, he knew it was something special.

“They’re as close to angels as you’ll meet. They’re beautiful people. Unfortunately sometimes they’ve been neglected or set aside and we really want to bring their talents out and share them so we can give them opportunities,” said Pacheco.

And when you buy a cup of coffee at hugs and mugs, you’re not just drinking coffee, you’re changing lives.

“It makes me feel proud of myself that I’m able to help out in some way, however small or large, I can make a difference for someone else,” said Pacheco.