At ADI Jerusalem, an accessible coffee cart operated by graduates of the center was launched this week, offering them meaningful work experience and daily responsibility. The cart was established in memory of Ran Dakori, a longtime resident of the center who lived with complex developmental and motor disabilities and passed away without family by his side.
How does ADI Jerusalem’s coffee cart empower its graduates?
The initiative was designed to meet the needs of each participant: communication devices for taking orders, an adapted coffee machine for simple use, and a supportive environment that allows them to lead the preparation and service process. The cart will operate twice a week and serve staff and visitors on a non profit basis.
Shlomit Grayevsky, CEO of ADI Jerusalem, explained that “the initiative grew from a small project where residents sold items they created at the Mahane Yehuda market. We saw how much light, pride and satisfaction it brought them – selling what they made themselves – and realized it should become something permanent and meaningful. From that moment we decided to create the coffee cart and include the commemoration of Ran, who was a special resident and a true member of our home”.
The center notes that the project is expected to expand with further training and community partnerships. For the graduates it is real empowerment, and for the center it is a way to keep Ran’s story woven into everyday life in Jerusalem.
