Nominated Business: Rising Kites Coffee
Who are the owner(s) and/or principal leadership in this company? Danielle & Matt Grandholm
Where is it located? Bridgman
Nominated by: Courtney Quandt
How many people work at the company you are nominating? 25
Tell us the story behind the nominated company. What does it do, and what sets them apart from other companies in the region?
Rising Kites coffee provides employment and job training opportunities to individuals with intellectual disabilities, fosters an inclusive environment where all individuals are encouraged to see the gift that people with disabilities are to our world, and helps cover the continual costs of the Rising Kites Bag program which provides encouragement, education, and resources to families across the globe that are new to the Down syndrome community.
In your own words, why do you think this company deserves to be declared to be one of the 20 Best Places to Work in Michigan’s Great Southwest?Rising Kites Coffee exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding workplace in Michigan’s Great Southwest through its unwavering commitment to inclusivity, community support, and social impact.
What makes workers proud to say they work there, and keeps them a part of the team?
Workers at Rising Kites Coffee are proud to be part of a purpose-driven mission that empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities and supports families in the Down syndrome community. They feel valued, supported, and inspired by a culture of inclusion, growth, and joy. It’s more than just a job—it’s a place where they belong and make a real impact every day.
Let’s pretend you’re writing a review for Google or Indeed. Give us your best recommendation for the nominated company that would make the rest of us wish we worked there, too.
Working at Rising Kites Coffee is more than just a job—it’s being part of a mission that truly matters. From day one, you feel the heart behind everything: inclusion, purpose, and community. The team is uplifting, the atmosphere is full of joy, and every cup of coffee served helps change lives. Knowing your work empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities and supports families around the world makes it easy to show up every day with pride. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just make you a better employee—it makes you a better human. I can’t recommend it enough.
What three key words best describe why this company is a Best Places to Work caliber company?
Inclusive
Purposeful
Empowering
As a Best Places to Work company “Super Hero,” what are the two most magical “Super Powers” this company seems to have on a day-to-day basis? (i.e., Ability to read minds, fly, invisibility, etc) And why?
The Power to See Hidden Potential: Like X-ray vision for the soul, they see the strengths, talents, and value in every individual—especially those often overlooked by society. This superpower transforms lives by creating meaningful opportunities and building confidence from the inside out.
The Ability to Spread Joy on Contact: With just a smile, a coffee, or a kind word, Rising Kites radiates positivity. It’s like emotional sunshine—lifting moods, building connections, and reminding everyone who walks through the door that they matter.
Tell us about the leadership of the nominated company and what they do in order to:
A] Keep spirits and motivation high? Leaders at Rising Kites create an uplifting, affirming environment where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and valued. They celebrate milestones big and small, encourage personal growth, and foster a culture of kindness and encouragement. Their mission-driven work gives employees a daily reminder that they’re part of something meaningful—and that fuels motivation like nothing else.
B] Keep innovation and fresh ideas advancing? With a clear passion for impact, the leadership embraces creativity and is always looking for ways to grow the mission—whether it’s expanding community programs, adding new inclusive spaces like the Rising Kites Flower Farm, or developing new ways to reach families through the Rising Kites Bag program. They listen, adapt, and welcome fresh ideas from every level of the team.
C] Keep communications open? Open dialogue is at the heart of Rising Kites. Leadership keeps communication transparent and accessible, encouraging feedback, questions, and collaboration. Everyone’s voice matters here, and that kind of trust builds a team that feels connected, respected, and fully engaged.
Explain a specific “wow!” moment in this company’s history that is virtually “Hall of Fame” or “Best Practices” worthy, as an example to other companies in the region.
What started as a small act of kindness—providing care packages to families who just received a Down syndrome diagnosis—has grown into an internationally reaching effort. Over 3,000 Rising Kites Bags have been delivered to families in all 50 states and 20+ countries, offering comfort, education, and a sense of community during one of life’s most emotional moments. This initiative goes beyond coffee—it’s a masterclass in how a business can weave purpose into its model and profoundly touch lives far beyond its walls. It’s the kind of story that inspires other companies to think bigger, lead with heart, and redefine what impact looks like.
Best Places to Work have a reputation for not only working hard, but also for playing hard.
A] How does the nominated company honor or reward success? Rising Kites Coffee honors success by celebrating milestones, both big and small. They recognize employees for their hard work and dedication through personalized shout-outs, team celebrations, and public acknowledgment in front of the entire team. Whether it’s achieving a team goal or an individual milestone, the leadership makes sure that success is recognized and celebrated, reinforcing the sense of accomplishment and belonging.
B] How does the nominated company socialize as a team? This non-profit fosters a strong sense of camaraderie by organizing regular team-building events and outings, such as special celebrations, and group activities. These moments are designed to bond the team beyond just work, creating opportunities for employees to connect, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed, fun environment.
C] How does the nominated company get involved in community events? They partner with other organizations to raise awareness and provide resources, showing up in the community not just as a business, but as a caring, active member. Their involvement includes hosting events like community coffee nights or providing spaces for gatherings that focus on inclusion and support.
D] How does the nominated company celebrate life? Rising Kites celebrates life by embracing both the big and small moments. Whether it’s a team member’s birthday, a new milestone in the Rising Kites Bag program, or just a moment of personal triumph, they make sure to celebrate with joy and gratitude. It’s a place where each moment—personal or professional—is recognized as part of a larger, meaningful journey.
What one thing is special about your nominated company that most people in the community have no idea actually happens there, but should be shouted from the rooftops because it’s that cool?
One incredibly special thing about Rising Kites Coffee that most people don’t realize—but absolutely should—is that every coffee sold directly supports families who are navigating a brand-new Down syndrome diagnosis. Behind the scenes, proceeds from the café fund the creation and delivery of Rising Kites Bags—thoughtfully curated care packages that offer encouragement, education, and hope to families around the world. So that latte you grab on the way to work? It’s helping a mom in another state feel a little less alone. That’s not just cool—it’s powerful, and it deserves to be shouted from every rooftop in town.
Give us three employee perks or benefits that you think make the company you have nominated worthy of a Best Places to Work trophy?
Benefit 1: Inclusive Employment with Purpose: Employees—especially those with intellectual disabilities—are given meaningful roles that build confidence, independence, and self-worth. It’s not just a job; it’s a place where people are empowered to shine.
Benefit 2: Supportive, Family-Like Culture: Team members are part of a close-knit, encouraging community where everyone is valued. Leadership celebrates personal growth, milestones, and brings positive energy into the workplace every day.
Benefit 3: Mission-Driven Work That Matters: Every employee gets to be part of something bigger—knowing their work directly supports families in the Down syndrome community around the world. That sense of purpose is an incredible benefit that you can’t put a price on.
Anything else you’d like to mention about this company, its’ leadership, etc?
To put it simply, Rising Kites Coffee is the kind of place that fills your cup — literally and figuratively.☺️
