A neighbourhood café where friendship, good coffee, and meaningful opportunities come together.
In the heart of the Beaches, a cozy café is serving more than lattes and scones—it’s serving opportunity. Founded by lifelong friends and educators Donna Peterson and Leslie Grant, Judy’s Beach Café blends good coffee with a mission: to create meaningful training and employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Inspired by Donna’s sister Judy, the café is both a tribute and a beacon of inclusion.
A Dream with Purpose
For years, Donna and Leslie imagined running a coffee shop together. The dream took on new meaning when Leslie became close with Donna’s youngest sister, Judy, who was born with Down syndrome.
“Judy was our inspiration,” Donna shares. “She had a phenomenal life working at a flower shop, where she was paid and valued.
After my mother passed, Leslie joined my siblings and me in supporting Judy. Later, when Judy began showing signs of Alzheimer’s in her late 40s, we thought: what if we built a place that offered others like Judy the chance to work, learn, and belong?”
From that vision, Judy’s Beach Café was born. Today, ten individuals work shifts each week, supported and celebrated as vital members of the team.
Photo: Co-owners, Donna Peterson and Leslie Grant
Photo by Prince Ann Aquino (Shots by Luna)
“They’re learning, growing, and becoming part of this mission,” says Donna.
Finding the Right Fit
Running a café requires many different hands—and hearts. From brewing coffee and taking orders to washing dishes and greeting customers, there’s a place for everyone.
“There are so many facets of the café that we create individualized training for each person,” Leslie explains. “Some love being out front with customers, while others are more comfortable doing something physical, like dishes. We meet them where they are.”
Donna smiles as she recalls unexpected breakthroughs:
“Some employees never imagined they could handle a POS system, but with training, they’ve discovered they’re naturals. It’s incredible to see that confidence grow.”
Support That Empowers
The café’s model is built on encouragement, patience, and teamwork.
“One-on-one support is essential, especially at the beginning,” Leslie says. “We guide them step by step until it clicks. Once it does, it’s their job—it belongs to them.”
“Everyone supports each other,” Donna adds. “It’s a true team.”
A Culture of Joy
The impact extends far beyond the café’s walls.
“Our employees are so pure, genuine, loving, and grateful,” Leslie reflects. “They arrive early for their shifts, and when it’s time to go, they can’t believe it’s over. Their families are grateful too—it’s life-changing.”
Donna nods. “We’re all better employees because of this. More patient, more open-hearted, more supportive. The café has changed us as much as it’s changed them.”
“Our community grows stronger when we showcase abilities,” Leslie says.
A Voice from the Team: Zoe
Photo of Employee Zoe Stanley.
Photo by Prince Ann Aquino (Shots by Luna)
One of those employees is Zoe, who radiates pride when discussing her role.
“I enjoy the people—they’re really nice and lovely,” Zoe says. “The café feels welcoming, with interesting artwork and wallpaper on the walls. My coworkers are always there to help me, and their positive feedback makes me feel encouraged.”
Her favourite part of the job? “Working with customers, because they’re so nice.”
Since starting at the café, Zoe has learned not only how to serve customers but also how to remain confident during busy periods and work effectively as part of a team.
“I feel proud when I do a good job and make customers happy,” she says. “It feels like I’m making a difference.”
And her go-to order? A warm scone with a latte.
More Than a Coffee Shop
Judy’s Beach Café is proof that when a community invests in inclusion, everyone benefits. It’s a place where ability is celebrated, friendships are formed, and every cup truly counts.
As Leslie puts it: “Everybody is better, everybody has a bigger heart.”
Photos taken by Prince Ann Aquino (Shots by Luna)
and Rosanne Barlias SCIO Employment Specialist.
