Shelby s Special Blendz Cafe caters to individuals with disabilities
Special Blendz Café is Shelby’s newest eatery, serving acai bowls, sandwiches and ice cream, but the restaurant has a dual purpose.
The café, which opened March 13 at 1230 East Dixon Boulevard, is run primarily by people with special needs. Restaurant owner Alan Routhier said often times they go unnoticed and feel shunned from the world. His mission is to ensure each employee has a sense of belonging and purpose.
“I believe everyone has a passion and that is 100% my passion,” said Routhier.
Routhier said he gravitated toward people with special needs while in middle school. It was an inborn instinct to be part of that community, and he would often volunteer to be of service to them.