By Amy Howe
When River Blend Coffee opened its doors in April 2023, it wasn’t just another coffee shop in Pineville, Missouri. It was a community-driven initiative with a dual purpose: to provide high school students at McDonald County High School with hands-on business experience and to enrich the local community. Now, nearly two years later, the coffee shop has become a vibrant hub for learning, connection and collaboration.
A Vision Brewed in Partnership
The idea for River Blend Coffee originated from the McDonald County Chamber of Commerce, which sought to create a project integrating high school students into the local business community. With the help of a $50,000 grant from T-Mobile, the vision came to life. “The chamber had a clear goal of fostering a stronger partnership with the school district,” said Sherry Lemm, one of the two lead teachers overseeing the program. “With business students running the coffee shop and culinary students contributing menu items, it’s become a thriving example of collaboration.”
A Real-World Classroom
Running River Blend Coffee provides students with a real-world education in business management. From managing inventory to balancing budgets and providing excellent customer service, the lessons learned go far beyond textbooks.
“Students gain invaluable experience in financial management, marketing, teamwork and problem-solving,” said Kristy Gilgen, the other lead instructor. “These skills are essential for entrepreneurship and will benefit them in any career they pursue.”
Students agree that the coffee shop has been transformative. Senior Shylynn Deering shared, “I’ve learned so much about the behind-the-scenes aspects of running a business, like supply orders and financials. It’s shown me how important customer service is—it can make or break a business.”
Lessons in Hospitality
For Deering, one of the highlights of working at River Blend Coffee has been interacting with customers. “I love meeting new people and learning how they heard about the coffee shop,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see regulars come back because of the positive experience we provide.” The shop’s emphasis on hospitality teaches students to prioritize customer satisfaction. “Good customer service is critical,” Deering said. “It’s the reason people return to support your business.”
River Blend Coffee’s offerings have evolved thanks to feedback from customers and the creativity of students. Originally focused on coffee, the shop now serves breakfast items crafted by the high school’s culinary students. “The menu reflects the talents of our students and the preferences of our customers,” said Lemm. “We’re even planning to introduce lunch options in the future.”
Community Impact
The coffee shop has become a beloved fixture in the Pineville community. Located in the McDonald County Chamber of Commerce building, it draws locals and visitors. “The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive,” said John Newby, the Chamber president/CEO. “This project adds vibrancy to the downtown square and provides a unique way for people to support youth education and local businesses.” The partnership between the chamber and the school district has also strengthened community ties. “This initiative is a win for everyone—the students, the school, the chamber and the community,” Newby added.
Overcoming Challenges
Operating a coffee shop hasn’t been without its challenges. Students have had to master inventory management, maintain consistent quality and ensure customer satisfaction during busy times. These obstacles, however, have been opportunities for growth. “Not everything works, and that’s OK,” said Newby. “The students learn from these trials, which is an invaluable part of the experience.”
Building Connections
The shop’s location within the Chamber of Commerce building offers students unique networking opportunities. They interact with local business owners and community leaders, gaining insights into the local economy. “These connections are critical,” said Gilgen. “They help students understand the importance of community engagement and how businesses can support one another.” Participation in events like Jesse James Days further integrates the coffee shop into the community. “Serving beverages at these events allows us to connect with even more people and showcase what our students can do,” Lemm said.
Inspiring Future Careers
The experience at River Blend Coffee has sparked new career aspirations for many students. Some have developed an interest in entrepreneurship or business management, while others have been drawn to the culinary arts. “This has shown me the value of customer service in any career I pursue,” said Deering.
For the teachers, seeing students discover their passions is one of the most rewarding aspects of the project. “It’s incredible to watch them grow in confidence and clarify their career goals,” said Gilgen.
Looking Ahead
Plans are underway to expand the space, adding more seating indoors and outdoors, and to enhance the menu with lunch options. These developments reflect the ambition of the students and their commitment to serving the community. “This project is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its youth,” said Newby. Newby also praised the dedication of the teachers who oversee the coffee shop. “You can have the best ideas and students, but without great coaches, it won’t succeed,” he said. “These teachers are the unsung heroes of this story.”
A Lasting Legacy
“This experience has shown our students what’s possible when you work hard and dream big,” said Lemm. “It’s preparing them for the future while making our community stronger today.” River Blend Coffee is more than a coffee shop; it’s a symbol of collaboration, learning and community. As it continues to grow, it will leave a lasting impact on the students who run it and the community it serves. As Newby shared, “This program is shaping the next generation of leaders. It’s not just about teaching skills; it’s about empowering young people to believe in themselves and their potential.”
See more photos in the December 2024 print and/or digital editions