The E-Z Coffee Stand

In the Summer 2009, we wanted to shake things up a bit, and the results showed. Our theme was "Community", because our when country is going through hard economic troubles, it's important to stay united. We decided to support a local charity this year: Growing Power, an organization based here in Milwaukee that trains young people to urban farm, bee keeping, agriculture, raise animals, and help keep people out of poverty. We also added a few services, including LIVE MUSIC performed every week by our in-house trumpeter, Alex Browne, as well as attempts at tea, and new social networking use to help keep neighbors up-to-date. The E-Z Coffee crew traveled to Growing Power and met the internationally-famous local agriculturist, Will Allen (below). In the end, we raised an amazing $803.60, more money than we've ever raised in one summer.

The goal of Summer 2008 was to fund a water pump through UNICEF's Inspired Gifts program, which allows donors to choose to what project or gift will be donated to that specific community. We were fortunate enough to accomplish more than that. Besides funding a water well, we also funded a bicycle for traveling doctor, 6 mosquito nets, and a first aid kit for health care facilities. Total donation: $650

The Summer of 2007 was our most successful summer as of yet. We chose Heifer International as our charity this year, which is an organization that gives livestock to people in developing countries. We were fortunate enough to buy 2 llamas, a goat, and a waterbuffalo, with money left over.   Total donation:    $723.76

 The Summer of 2006 was our first big transition. We went from every day (year before) of the summer to once per week. Its a transition our neighbors weren't too happy about, but we needed the break. We were fortunate to fundraise as much money as we did, because our stand only operated about 5 times this season. Thanks to all of our loyal customers who made it great! Total donation: $172.90

The Summer of 2005 was one of our favorite summers because it was a very personal experience for our family. We had just moved to the neighborhood, and got to know many of our fellow neighbors through the coffee stand ("java that rocks"). Back then, there was a local UNICEF store, which sold fair trade and UNICEF branded products (sadly it closed the year after). We do not know the exact amount, but our local UNICEF store's volunteers project between $400-500 was raised that year. It was a lot of fun!

We'll see you next year,

            Elsa, Zach, Sydney, and Alex