Where Coffee Meets Community, Part 1: PJ’s Franchisees Making a Difference

In the warm embrace of southern hospitality, PJ’s Coffee has not just brewed exceptional coffee and tea but has woven itself into the very fabric of the communities it serves. Founded on the belief that a good cup of coffee can unite people, PJ’s Coffee has grown into a brand that takes immense pride in fostering connections and creating spaces for shared moments. With a commitment to embodying the essence of community living, one cup at a time, our franchisees are not just purveyors of beverages but stewards of heartfelt experiences.

Empowering Special Needs: PIVOTing Towards a Brighter Future

PJ’s Coffee franchise owner Brandy Craft isn’t just brewing coffee — she’s brewing opportunities for the Pursuing Innovative Vocational Occupations Today (PIVOT) program in Bossier City, Louisiana. She has partnered with Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning’s PIVOT, providing a platform for students with special needs to gain vocational training, independent living skills and valuable community integration.

Craft’s PJ's Coffee breaks down barriers and fosters inclusivity by hosting internships where students help clean, bake, make drinks and more. As of November 2023, Craft has hosted four students so far who have all added value to her team — she is now working toward making them permanent paid employees.

Fueling Literacy: PJ’s Coffee Joins the Little Free Library Movement

In Monahans, Texas, PJ’s Coffee has taken a step beyond the coffee cup, becoming a catalyst for literacy. Franchise owner Fisher Boone came across the “Little Free Library” reading program on social media and was immediately inspired to add one to his store to benefit his community.

Through his involvement in the “Little Free Library” initiative, the coffee shop encourages the love of reading in children and adults. The concept is simple but powerful, relying on the honor system — a standup mailbox filled with books, where patrons can take a book and leave one in return. The more visitors to the Little Free Library, the more books are circulated.

Not only does this promote literacy, but it also fosters connections between the community and the baristas. It’s one of the many ways our franchisees have allowed PJ’s Coffee to become more than just a coffee shop — it’s a community hub that nurtures the minds of our guests.

Honoring Veterans: A Brew of Appreciation

In the heart of New Jersey, Wayne and Jean Heaton have also transformed their PJ’s Coffee in Linwood into a place where gratitude and coffee blend seamlessly. In collaboration with Jeanne Eisele, a principal in Anchor Financial, the Heatons are offering a warm welcome to veterans. “Every day should be Veterans Day” echoes Jeanne’s sentiment, and with Wayne being a veteran himself, the idea took flight.

Now, every veteran who steps into the shop receives a complimentary beverage and a beignet — a small token of appreciation for their service. The Heatons have turned their franchise into a place where gratitude and coffee blend seamlessly, taking “Where Coffee Meets Community” to heart and into every cup served.

Making A Difference: PJ’s Coffee Franchise Opportunities

PJ's Coffee stands as a shining example for those looking to invest in a franchise that goes beyond profit margins. Craft, Boone and the Heatons are inspiring examples of how a coffee shop can be more than just a place for caffeine fixes — it can be a cornerstone of community empowerment.

Joining our PJ’s Coffee family means becoming a part of a movement where coffee and community come together to create something extraordinary. PJ's Coffee might be the perfect fit if you’re seeking a franchise opportunity that blends passion, purpose and a love for community. Discover how you can make a difference by owning a PJ’s Coffee franchise.