About The Support Cafe

Come as you are. We’ll meet you there.

The Support Cafe is a free, come-as-you-are space for anyone who needs a break — from the noise, from the pressure, from whatever life is throwing at you. We offer decent coffee, safe conversation, and support you don’t have to earn. There are no strings, no judgments, and no expectations. Just room for you.

We’re here for:

  • Parents and grandparents raising kids

  • People in recovery, re-entry or navigating mental health

  • Veterans, caregivers, and the grieving

  • Folks who feel forgotten, overwhelmed, or just need a place to sit and breathe

What You’ll Find Here:

  • Weekly support groups (grief, recovery, parenting, veteran, and more)

  • Free community meals

  • Gentle space for conversation and rest

  • Welcoming volunteers who listen, not lecture

  • Printed guides, real-world resources, and community referrals

How It Started

In a town where most paths to help ran through law enforcement or church doors, two Celebrate Recovery groups had already started doing good work — and still do. They offer structure, hope, and a way back.

But there was still something missing — a space for the ones who didn’t fit. The ones who didn’t want church. The ones who feared judgment. Maybe that fear wasn’t always logical, but it was real.

Some were carrying a problem that wasn’t addiction. A challenge that wasn’t probation. A weight no one could see — but they were carrying it all the same.

The Support Cafe was created for them. For anyone who needs a place to be met without needing to explain, perform, or justify. A place to just be — and begin again.

Because everyone deserves somewhere they can go without needing to explain why they’re there.

Our Beliefs

  • People need dignity more than advice.

  • You don’t have to be fixed to be welcome.

  • No one is too far gone for community.

  • Systemic problems need human-sized solutions.

  • Kindness is not a program. It’s a practice.

Meet the Team

The Cafe is led by Pat Brown. August Cox is our full-time behavioral therapist. Together, they work alongside a dedicated group of volunteers, partners, and community members.

Board of Directors

The Support Cafe is a nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board committed to community equity, mental health access, and support without stigma.

  • Chair: Melissa Gard

  • Treasurer: Virga Smith

  • Secretary: Darla Williams

  • Board Members: Joe Brady, Leslie Meredith

Legal & Public Records

We believe in transparency and accountability. Our key documents — including nonprofit determination letters, privacy policies, and governance records — are available [here] (link to your existing document hub).

FAQs

Do I need to register or sign up to come?
Nope. Just walk in the door. You don’t need to RSVP, sign in, or give us your info unless you want to.

Is there ever paperwork?
Yes, but not right away. At some point, we’ll ask you to fill out a short membership form. It’s not about tracking you or judging you — it’s about helping our funder understand which kinds of support are reaching which people. They use basic demographic info to spot gaps and successes across the region. While the information is kept confidential, it can technically be linked back to you. You can read their privacy policy [here]. Filling out the form is quick, and it helps us keep the doors open.

Is The Support Cafe a religious space?
No. People are welcome regardless. You can bring your faith with you, but no one will preach at you. You won’t be asked to pray, but you can pray. You won’t be asked to demonstrate or prove your faith, but you can talk about it. We support all pathways to a better life — for lots of people, that includes traditional religion or faith. Others take different paths. We support them all, and with the same respect.

Do I need insurance or a referral?
No. We are not a clinic or a service agency. You don’t need insurance, paperwork, or a diagnosis to belong here.

Can I bring my kids?
The Support Cafe is primarily an adult space, where we often discuss difficult topics that are not be appropriate for children. That said, our Moms & Babies program is specifically designed for mothers and their infants. Some events — like those in the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program — might be planned to include children. We do our best to welcome everyone. If you have specific needs or questions, let us know and we’ll do what we can.

Is it really free? What’s the catch?
Yes, it’s really free. No catch. We’re a nonprofit funded by generous people and community grants. If you ever want to help out, we welcome that too.

I’m nervous. What if I don’t know anyone?
That’s okay. Most people felt that way the first time. We’ll help you get settled, introduce you to someone if you want, and never pressure you to speak.

I’m not sure where I belong. Is this still for me?
Yes. Especially if you don’t know where you belong. You’re welcome here.

Have questions? Want to visit? Just come. Or text us at (574) 203-8555. You don’t have to know what to say. We’ll be here either way.

Come as you are. We’ll meet you there.