ILION — This year, First Source Federal Credit Union granted $5,000 to Arc Herkimer’s newest endeavor, the Copper Café. The local eatery, Arc Herkimer Mall at 44 Central Plaza, employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a supported work environment.

At the café, individuals gain skills in cooking, customer service, and point of sale that they can take with them to future community employment.

“The financial support of First Source has been crucial in the conceptualization of the café and creating a training ground for people supported,” says Catherine Loomis, Arc Herkimer Vice President of Community Engagement and Career Development. “We are thrilled that the mission of the café aligned with the vision of First Source.”

“When we learned about this particular Arc Herkimer initiative, we knew it was a great fit for our community involvement,” says Katie Ullman, First Source associate director of marketing and communications. “They do much to enable their people supported, and to be able to include a financial education and training component along with the cafe, it was really a win/win for both organizations.”

The Copper Café is in good company amongst other local businesses, officials say. Since it’s opening in June, the eatery has found its footing with fresh, all-day breakfast, hearty lunches, and tasty daily specials — all for under $10. More on Facebook @arccoppercafe.