LovABLE SERVICES, Inc. presents "Chris's Custard and Coffee in Roanoke County, VA

LovABLE SERVICES, Inc. was awarded a grant in the amount of $21,505 to build two ADA-compliant exterior handicap ramps at Chris’s Custard and Coffee in Roanoke County, Virginia.

This initiative is part of Phase 2 of the "Raise 1 For Chris" Capital Campaign, which aims to transform the historic Starkey School into an accessible facility, providing vocational training and employment for individuals with disabilities. The historic Starkey School, though rich in history, lacks modern ADA accessibility, posing barriers for those with mobility challenges. Phase 1 of the campaign successfully raised $859,000 to purchase and renovate parts of the building, including a kitchen. Phase 2 focuses on completing the renovations to ensure a fully accessible environment, featuring a conference room, handicap parking, and the two essential ramps.

The project, which was supported for a submission to FCIDD by the Smith Mountain Lake Civitan Club, aims to achieve a 100% ADA-accessible facility, increase participation and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, and boost community engagement. Upon completion, the facility will hire at least 10 more individuals with developmental disabilities and expects a 50% increase in community participation. LovABLE SERVICES has trained numerous young adults and staff, and Chris's Coffee & Custard serves as a vocational training site for local school systems. The facility supports students in developing job skills and social interactions. Having a fully accessible facility will allow many individuals with disabilities to visit the shop each day. Chris's supports a legacy of inclusion, training, and community engagement. Their goal is to provide the best customer service possible, so their customers are happier when they leave than when they walk in the door!