Something new is brewing at the Related Midwest offices! Veteran Roasters, a Chicago-based coffee roaster staffed by U.S. military veterans, has been selected as the in-office coffee provider for Related Midwest. And starting in June, Related will feature Veteran Roasters at monthly coffee service on-site at construction projects.
Finding employment and secure housing can be challenging for veterans returning from duty, especially while they physically and mentally recover from the demands of service. Bearing the motto “Coffee with a purpose,” Veteran Roasters hires and trains returning veterans, as well as providing them with housing assistance and wraparound support in the transition to civilian life. Veteran Roasters employees currently include veterans representing the Marine Corps, Navy and National Guard.
“For many veterans, coffee serves as a warm, comfortable break from reality while serving abroad or after returning home,” says Veteran Roasters CEO Branden Marty, a Navy veteran and former helicopter pilot. “After returning from serving, I grew passionate about providing support and opportunities for my fellow veterans. It was difficult to see veterans I knew fall on hardship after transitioning home,” says Marty about his work with the Wounded Warrior Project during and after his term of service.
Recognizing that people in all professions share veterans’ love of coffee, Veteran Roasters also offers a weekly coffee subscription service. Each subscription represents a half-day of wages for one of the company’s employees. They also offer canned “RnR” cold brew coffee in the Chicago area.
“We encourage and we pride ourselves in fostering a community of Veterans who have shared experiences and passions for our coffee, our mission and each other,” Marty says. “Our team of Veterans are at the forefront of everything we do.”
