Dining
BY DACIA GARCIA
In 2010, Erin Kiltz toured The Brookwood Com- munity in Brookshire, Texas in search of opportu- nities for her special needs daughter, Gracie, after she graduated from high school. Kiltz was inspired by the impact of the resi- dential and vocational program and decided to recreate it in Georgetown. One year later, she founded Brookwood in Georgetown. What they o er The facility creates an environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are able to learn life skills by working at The BiG Cafe and Shop. Director of Mission Advancement Tim Curtis has been part of the organization since its early days. After retiring as a pastor, he decided to dedicate his time to BiG. He said all funds raised from the cafe and gift shop go back into the program. What’s special about it? The BiG Cafe is part of the Georgetown program which started out using free church space, and has since developed into a three-campus setting where attendees are welcome to participate in the making of various products. Curtis said citizens take on various roles at the cafe depending on what they are comfortable with, including cutting fresh fruit in the kitchen or handing out menus to cafe guests. “We are a God-centered program because we see the image of God in our citizens,” Curtis said. “They don’t have to be any particular religion. We’re not associated with any denomination. We accept everyone, but it’s just at the heart of who we are.” What else? The BiG Shop sells items made by BiG citizens, including Christmas ornaments, ceramics, home- made pies and fudge, jewelry, organic dog treats, shower steamers, and resin charcuterie boards. “They make just beautiful things sold here and it gives them a sense of purpose and a lot of them have incredible creativity and they’re able to use that here,” Curtis said. The impact While BiG has provided more resources for the Georgetown community, it has also highlighted the need for more programs like it, Curtis said. The BiG Cafe expands opportunities for its citizens one job at a time
The Seeds of Grace Salad ($13.95) is the most ordered salad at the cafe, Director of Mission Advancement Tim Curtis said.
PHOTOS BY DACIA GARCIA COMMUNITY IMPACT
Entrees include the Sweet Potato Encrusted Quiche ($11.95) and the Cranky Turkey Panini ($13.95) .
The shop features some items created by citizens, including jewelry, ceramics, ornaments and more.
“It’s the idea that you do for a few what you wish you could do for everyone,” Curtis said. “The need is over owing. There are so many special needs children and adults, and just in Central Texas, so we actually kind of help meet the need.” More details If an adult is accepted as a citizen, they pay a $1,000 monthly tuition for the program; however, need-based scholarships are available.
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905 N. Church St., Georgetown www.bigtx.org/store-cafe
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