Clients at Q&A Associates Family of Programs operate The Breakfast Nook Restaurant seven days a week. The Breakfast Nook was created in 2011 as a learning opportunity for clients to experience a real-life job while having close and supportive supervision. "Breakfast with a purpose" truly takes form in this operation and is a long-standing favorite of locals and tourists visiting the area.
Each program - Applewood Transitions for Young Women, The Journey for Young Men, and Cabin Mountain Living Center - is responsible for operating The Breakfast Nook once a week as a team-building day. Life Coaches, Program Directors, and Mentors also participate with clients these days. This collaborative effort fosters strong teamwork and camaraderie among the clients. The mentors' guidance helps them navigate challenges, build confidence, and improve their problem-solving abilities. By working together, clients learn to communicate effectively, support one another, and develop a shared sense of accomplishment.
Aside from these team-building days, several clients work and earn a paycheck at The Breakfast Nook daily. Most clients who enroll in Q&A Associates' family of programs do not have job experience. Many of these clients have their first employment experience at The Breakfast Nook, receiving hands-on training for learning and growth before they move on to a job in the community. With that being said, some clients will continue to work at The Breakfast Nook in the mornings before going to their other place of employment in the afternoon.
In addition to offering delicious meals to the community, The Breakfast Nook provides clients with vast benefits derived from the restaurant environment. "One of our biggest assets throughout Q&A is having a breakfast restaurant operated by staff and clients," said Kelly Pennington, Director of Applewood Transitions. "Creating this safe container before clients apply for jobs in the community aids in success," Pennington continued. This immersive setting allows clients to acquire valuable skills such as time management, teamwork, and customer service, which are essential for personal and professional development.
About Q&A Associates:
Q&A Associates is a family of Young Adult Transitional Living Programs dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting change and reach their full potential as functional young adults. Through expert coaching, tailored programs, and a commitment to creating a positive impact, Q&A Associates provides transformative solutions to challenges faced by clients who are learning to become adults in today’s world.
For more information about Q&A Associates and the services offered, visit www.qa-associates.com. Contact Anngela Starnes, Director of Marketing and Admissions, at astarnes@qa-associates.com or 304-704-6383.