At InXpress, we believe in the power of giving back and having a positive impact on our communities. One of the initiatives we’re incredibly proud to support is Café Cornell in Saffron Walden, Essex. This extraordinary café is changing lives by providing training and qualifications for adults with varying barriers to employment. We’d like to share why supporting Café Cornell means so much to us at InXpress, and how this partnership aligns with our core values.
Although Café Cornell serves a mean cup of coffee, that’s not all it’s famous for! We can honestly say it’s Essex’s answer to a community hub, delivering hope and opportunity daily. Owner, Samantha McReynolds’ vision was to create a truly inclusive space, where adults with varying difficulties or barriers could learn new skills, grow in confidence, connect with like-minded people, and thrive beyond belief. They’ve succeeded in building a community where everyone is welcomed with open arms and given the tools to succeed. So, for us at InXpress, as part of our ethos to Give Back, we couldn’t be happier to support a cause committed to inclusivity and empowerment.
Did you know? Café Cornell was awarded the Kings Award for Voluntary Service at Buckingham palace! Yes, their initiative really is worth talking about. Thanks to the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to the academy which also allows the team to pursue new ideas for helping those in need. For example #LetsEatTogether encourages an engaging community service, allowing Café Cornell to open its doors to feed the public for free. Every Easter & Christmas, volunteers feed the most socially isolated and vulnerable, ensuring the community feels the warmth and joy of the holiday season. But it’s not just about food, the academy also provides those in need with essential items such as sanitary pads and much needed toiletries.
But how is this possible?
As a not-for-profit business, Café Cornell couldn’t survive without the support of generous donors. So, when Sam was introduced to InXpress Cambridge’s Stuart Vant, a new friendship blossomed. Stuart was so impressed with the selfless work the academy does, the time, effort and truly inclusive nature of the project, he just had to get involved. When he donated £2,000, he insisted the volunteers, staff and students, come together and enjoy something special (as opposed to towards a community project). So, a well-deserved trip to see Cinderella at the theatre was thoroughly enjoyed by all!
Stuart then advocated for the great work Café Cornell does, with the wider InXpress team, and it was soon on the radar of Glenn Willis and the rest of the InXpress Gives Back committee who, in Stuart’s words, make dreams possible. “When we heard about the fantastic work Sam and her team are doing, we knew we had to support them to keep up the amazing work.”
Stuart continues to support Café Cornell, and the relationship between InXpress and the academy is a partnership and a friendship. At InXpress, our commitment to corporate social responsibility goes beyond business. We believe in creating opportunities, supporting inclusive environments, and making meaningful contributions to our communities. We’re committed to going the extra mile, supporting initiatives which align with our values to make a difference in the world. It’s an honor to be in a position support Café Cornell and see firsthand the positive impact it has on the community.
If you would like to find out more about Café Cornell and the #LetsEatTogether initiative, click here and read our blog to find out how InXpress Gives Back to the community.