Chicago Coffee Shops with a Lot of Heart

As many times as I have tried to make the switch to tea, it’s clear that coffee and I will go together for the foreseeable future. In turn, I’ve spent a lot of time researching brands of coffee that are fair trade or have a charitable component. While building that list, I started tracking local coffee shops that do good either through direct charity support or building community in needed ways.

Here are seven Chicago cafes where you can go for a cup of coffee that will recharge your life and change someone else’s.

Places That I’ve Visited

Kusanya Cafe (825 W. 69th, Chicago)

While passing through Englewood, I stopped at Kusanya to recharge with a mocha. This coffee shop slash community gathering place opened in 2013 and is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. On the website, they talk a lot about the community atmosphere within the place and I can certainly vouch for that. There is such a peaceful yet collaborative vibe there. I look forward to returning with my laptop in tow.

Muse Coffee Studio (747 S. Western, Chicago)

Muse is TRULY one of my favorite places to go. It’s owned by my good friend and former classmate, George. Muse is a total vibe from the artwork to the sounds and, of course, the coffee. It’s a third space where you always feel welcomed by the owner and other patrons. The cafe hosts community events like open mic, yoga, and children’s clothing giveaways. There is always something good and dope happening here.

Inspiration Kitchens (3504 W. Lake, Chicago)

Inspirations Kitchens is a full-service restaurant versus cafe only, but there was no way that I was leaving them off of this list. I really wish that I lived closer to this place because the food is SO good. I loved the Shrimp and Grits. Not only is the staff pleasant and the food delicious, but Inspiration Kitchens also helps people build the skills and experience needed for a culinary career.

(TFG Tip: Make a day of it and visit the Garfield Park Conservatory while you’re in the neighborhood.)

My Half of the Sky (121 W. Wesley St., Wheaton)

I visited My Half of the Sky on International Women’s Day for two reasons. First, I needed to escape the work-from-home hamster wheel. And, also, I wanted to support this social enterprise focused on fair trade and creating employment opportunities for women. I spent the day working upstairs in their co-working space which was very comfortable. If you visit here, make sure that you check out the retail section of this shop which contains lots of items from social good brands, like Bright Endeavors.

Places I’m Excited to Check Out

Curt’s Cafe (Two locations in Evanston)

Similar to Inspiration Kitchens, Curt’s Cafe is a full-service restaurant that serves premium coffee drinks. Curt’s Cafe employs student-trainees between the ages of 15-24 who are living in at-risk situations. Through their three-month training program, they are able to gain on-the-job training, life skills, and prepare to transition into full-time employment. I have not yet visited Curt’s but the food (and the mission) come highly recommended.

Sip of Hope (3039 W. Fullerton, Chicago)

At Sip of Hope, 100% of the proceeds support suicide prevention and mental health education through Hope for the Day. Something that I think is incredible? According to their website, all of their baristas are trained in mental health first aid. This cafe serves coffee from their own line, along with pastries. You can also grab merchandise to support their efforts.

Coffee, Hip-Hop and Mental Health (1051 W. Belmont, Chicago)

Coffee, Hip Hop and Mental Health is a nonprofit organization highlighting the importance of mental health, particularly in the Black community. Purchases of coffee drinks and CHHMH merchandise at the cafe helps them provide free therapy sessions to individuals.

Have you visited any of these locations? Do you have others to share? Leave me a comment and let me know!