Dialogue Coffee House to open newest location at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas
Topeka, Kansas (Jan. 23, 2024) – A new opportunity is brewing! Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS), Capper Foundation and Dialogue Coffee House will be joining forces to bring a new Dialogue location to the BCBSKS Topeka campus.
The new location, set to open in April, will blend Dialogue’s commitment to employment of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with BCBSKS, a local company already embracing diversity, equity and inclusion in their everyday work. Together, the organizations will celebrate individuals of all abilities and provide safe spaces for individuals to learn and be themselves.
“At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, our employees are encouraged to bring their authentic, whole selves to work and embrace what makes us each unique,” said Lonnie Walker, Jr., BCBSKS Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “And because of Dialogue Coffee House’s mission, it makes this partnership even more special.”
Dialogue aims to give everyone a place to be part of the conversation, without the definition of one’s abilities.
“At Dialogue Coffee House, we aim for inclusion, where everyone can live and participate together in one community, emphasizing talents over differences,” said Caitlyn Halsey, Director of Employment Services, Capper Foundation. “We're thrilled to partner with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas in furthering this mission.”
Dialogue officially joined the Capper Foundation family in April 2023, allowing the organization to support more individuals in the community with career training and opportunities to be valued, enjoy access and independence to advance their hopes and dreams. This latest partnership between BCBSKS and Capper Foundation builds upon a long history between the two organizations.
“Through a partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, we've created a dynamic opportunity for meaningful dialogue that puts people of all abilities first, builds healthy communities, and prepares for a promising future,” said Zach Ahrens, President & CEO, Capper Foundation. “The inception of Dialogue Coffee House at Blue Cross reflects our vision to enhance career opportunities for Kansans of all abilities and instill crucial life skills. This collaboration is a perfect blend, demonstrating the long-term commitment of Blue Cross and Capper Foundation to create a community where every individual, regardless of ability can gain greater independence, and thrive.”
The location at BCBSKS will be open to the public and hours of operation will be announced closer to opening day.
About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas
For more than 80 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas has built a reputation of trust with its members and contracting providers by providing outstanding customer service while quickly and accurately processing claims; fairly administering benefit plans and contracts; offering programs, services and tools to help members improve or maintain their health; and operating under the highest ethical standards while being good stewards of premium dollars. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and is the state’s largest insurer, serving all Kansas counties except Johnson and Wyandotte. For more information, visit bcbsks.com.
About Dialogue Coffee House
In 2019, Dialogue Coffee House was founded in Topeka, Kansas by entrepreneur Caitlyn Halsey providing adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) the opportunity to feel valued and share their talents with their community through employment. In April of 2023, Dialogue joined with Capper Foundation to grow job training and community employment opportunities for more individuals with disabilities.
About Capper Foundation
For over 100 years, Capper Foundation has been building abilities with medically based pediatric therapies and services for individuals of all ages. Infants, children, teens and adults with intellectual, developmental and/or physical disabilities are provided support to achieve their full potential so they can enjoy a fulfilling life with family, friends and community.