This past Wednesday, we wore pink AND went all out to celebrate a special birthday. Lele Griner enjoyed her 30th birthday surrounded by co-workers at Onward Reserve who threw her an epic, pinkalicious party. Lele smiled broadly as she surveyed all the pink decorations and confections that had been so lovingly prepared for her. As office and warehouse employees joined in singing “Happy Birthday,” one thing was clear: Lele is a valued member of the team.
Lele’s path to a rewarding job at Onward Reserve began with Java Joy, a mobile coffee cart from ESP (Extra Special People) that employs adults with disabilities. As a Joyrista, Joy+Barista, Lele serves coffee and spreads joy at corporate or community events. Java Joy creates transformative experiences for people of all abilities, one cup of coffee and one hug at a time. Lele has been a Joyrista since 2019 and her Java Joy friends were also on hand for her special day.
Onward Reserve is a proud supporter of both ESP and Java Joy, regularly hiring the mobile coffee cart for company events. During an Onward Reserve warehouse sale, Lele was on the job, passing out coffee and hugs in equal measure. She was drawn to the clothing and activity around her, engaging with Onward Reserve employees. They saw something special in Lele and recognized that her enthusiasm and personality could make her a great addition to their team.
After interviewing with management, Lele began working one day a week at Onward Reserve’s corporate headquarters. She proved herself so capable that the company doubled her hours. “Lele can put a smile on everyone’s face just by walking in the room. She also does an incredible job in our embroidery department! We are so happy to have her,” said TJ Callaway, Onward Reserve Founder and CEO. Her supervisor, Rebecca Coffman, agrees, “We love having Lele on the team! She lights up any room she walks into and she’s fantastic at her job. I’m not sure what’s sweeter, working with Lele or the cookies she bakes!”
Far too often, adults with disabilities are not considered for job openings despite having valuable skills, talents, and contributions to offer. More than 85% of adults with disabilities who want to work cannot find employment. Meaningful work creates opportunities for personal growth, independence, connection, and a sense of purpose.
“When we started Java Joy, our hope was that it would open doors beyond a cup of coffee—helping businesses recognize the incredible abilities of people with disabilities. Lele’s story is that hope realized! Onward Reserve continues to impress us, not just as a partner, but as a true thought leader in inclusive employment. They didn’t just see Lele’s joy. They saw her potential, gave her an opportunity, and now they’re seeing the difference she makes. That’s exactly what we dreamed Java Joy could inspire.” – Laura Hope Whitaker, ESP’s CEO
Lele has found that opportunity at Java Joy and Onward Reserve. “My favorite thing about my jobs is being with my co-workers and friends and learning new responsibilities,” said Lele when asked what she enjoys most about working. She brings her gifts to each role, building relationships, contributing to her teams, and showing what is possible when employers look beyond assumptions and recognize potential.
Based on her birthday celebration, Lele brings something else to work: a whole lot of joy!
