Mission Statement: To provide a meaningful program that promotes community inclusion and social interaction as well as teach vocational, social, and life skills that will result in a more independent, productive, and healthy lifestyle for teens and young adults diagnosed with autism and other developmental delays.
Riverside Coffee Shop Serves
It isn’t just coffee. We serve a variety of refreshments, snacks and delicacies to satisfy your taste buds and make sure you get the best experience with us.
Seasonal Drinks
Selection of Seasonal Drinks
Coffee Drinks
Hot or iced coffee
Specialty Drinks
Smoothies, teas, & blended drinks
Breakfast
Frittatas, biscuits, and more!
Sandwiches
Quick and delicious handhelds
Pastries
Freshly made by local bakers
Program Summary
This two year program is designed for learners who wish to build job skills, specifically in a coffeeshop setting. The following are just a few of the many concepts we cover in our classroom:
- How to be an efficient and communicative co-worker
- How to prepare for an interview
- How to fill out a job application
- How to understand your paycheck, pay bills, etc.
- How to build skills and perform daily commonplace tasks
How to apply
This two year program is designed for learners who wish to build job skills, specifically in a coffeeshop setting. The following are just a few of the many concepts we cover in our classroom:
- Fill out the intake form below and submit it online.
- The intake form will be reviewed by our Program Manager who will call to schedule a visit.
- Come visit! Bring your prospective student intern to the coffee shop. Explore the options and learn more about the program.
- Think you’re a good fit? Fill out the enrollment form and return it to the Program Manager.
- If accepted, you will receive an email with a start date!
Meet the staff
Angie Davidson
President
Angie joined ABA Next Steps – Riverside Coffee Shop in June 2025. She is married to Andy and has three adult sons. She brings a diverse background in nonprofit leadership and education, shaped by years of living and serving internationally. From leading a youth program overseas to coordinating regional volunteer initiatives and supporting students, families, and teachers in academic settings, her work has centered on developing people and fostering environments where individuals are recognized for their unique gifts and contributions.
At Riverside Coffee Shop, she is excited to champion an inclusive workforce that affirms dignity, cultivates strengths, and creates meaningful opportunities for every individual to thrive.
Faye Presley
Lead Teacher
Ms. Presley obtained her master’s degree from UTK in Special Education. She taught for 13 years in Anderson County. It has always been her dream to provide vocational training to adults with special needs.
Norman Wyllie
Barista Extraordinaire
Norman moved here and wanted a change after working for Target for 20 years. He is our first graduate employee.
Jenni Vespa
Manager, Riverside Coffee Shop
Jenni started working at Riverside Coffee Shop in August 2025. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Tennessee with a degree Cinema Studies and minor in Graphic Design. Having various odd jobs previously she is excited to bring all her skills together to make Riverside run smoothly (and look pretty!). Having done previous social media and photography gigs, she is thrilled to run Riverside’s Instagram and Facebook as well!
Meet the interns
Venue
Bookings During Open Hours
| Venue Price | Free |
| Add a private barista and server | $25/hour |
Bookings After Hours
| Venue Price | $50/hour |
| Add a private barista and server | $25/hour |
Events
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