Make an Impact
Your support makes inclusive opportunity possible.
Donations to A Latte Opportunities help fund job training, inclusive employment programs, and community-based initiatives that empower adults with disabilities. Every contribution directly supports meaningful work, skill-building, and long-term opportunity.
Our Story: How A Latte Opportunities Began
What started as a simple coffee shop has grown into a place where adults with disabilities, called “Superstars,” find meaningful work, learn new skills, and thrive in a supportive environment. A Latte Friends shows that every individual has unique strengths to share and that inclusion benefits the entire community.
A Place to Thrive
Since opening, A Latte Friends has employed nine incredible team members and served over 5,000 customers who have experienced their talent and dedication firsthand. The shop is recognized as one of the few five-star rated coffee shops on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and has become a hub for connection and community pride.
Building Community Pride
A Latte Opportunities was created to expand this mission through new programs. A mobile coffee cart will create additional jobs, bring coffee to local events, and share the story of our Superstars with more people. An internship program provides training in customer service, cash handling, kitchen safety, and barista skills to prepare employees for success at A Latte Friends and future jobs in the community.
Expanding Our Mission
At its heart, A Latte Opportunities is about more than coffee. It is about independence, connection, and lasting change. Every new job and skill learned brings us closer to a world where everyone has the chance to contribute, connect, and thrive.
Empowering Every Individual
Meet Our Board Members
Angele Mills
Angele Mills brings over 18 years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusive education and community-based programs. Her work spans classrooms, respite services, and inclusive organizations, all centered on fostering belonging, independence, and meaningful connection. As a founding member of A Latte Opportunities and Manager at A Latte Friends, she continues to champion accessible training and employment opportunities that celebrate individual strengths.
Executive DirectorChad Helmer brings more than 26 years of military leadership and project management experience to A Latte Opportunities. As President of the Board, he supports strategic planning, operations, and team development while continuing his service as a Project Manager at Keesler Air Force Base. As the parent of a Superstar employed at A Latte Friends, Chad brings a deeply personal commitment to advancing inclusive opportunities.
PresidentChad Helmer
Nicole Sanders
Nicole Sanders serves as Treasurer of A Latte Opportunities, bringing 23 years of leadership and organizational experience from her career in the United States Air Force. She later worked as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence and meaningful employment. Nicole holds a Master of Science in Human Services and is committed to creating opportunities that empower others to reach their full potential.
TreasurerSusannah Gregg
Susannah Gregg brings over 15 years of experience in education, specializing in supporting students with significant cognitive and emotional disabilities. Her background spans international and domestic teaching and is grounded in advanced training in special education and nonprofit leadership. Susannah is deeply committed to creating compassionate, inclusive environments that support individuals and families across every stage of learning.
Board MemberMaya Lambert
Maya Lambert is a Special Education Teacher who has lived on the Gulf Coast for the past four years. She deeply loves her community. Her passion is bringing awareness, inclusion, and meaningful opportunities to individuals with disabilities. As a board member of A Latte Opportunities, she is proud to support a space that empowers people of all abilities through employment, learning, and connection.
Board MemberBrad Lahaie
Brad Lahaie brings 25 years of experience in the mental health and disability services field, with leadership roles spanning education, operations, and regional program management. His career has been dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through compassionate, systems-level care and advocacy. Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, Brad is committed to expanding inclusive services that strengthen individuals, families, and communities.
Board MemberLakesha M. Williams brings a strong background in public service, human resources, and community engagement to the A Latte Opportunities Board. Currently serving in the City of Biloxi’s Human Resources Department, she contributes expertise in organizational effectiveness and employee support. Lakesha is committed to advancing mission-driven work through thoughtful leadership, service, and community-focused engagement.
Board MemberLakeisha Williams
Maria Midgett is a retired K–12 educator and administrator with more than 30 years of experience supporting students, teachers, and school communities. Known for her compassion and leadership, she continues to serve others through active involvement in her church and community and has been a steadfast supporter of our mission from the beginning.
SecretaryMaria Midgett
Tanya Estep brings 27 years of experience in public education as an inclusion teacher and a lifelong commitment to advocacy for individuals with special needs. After retiring, she founded A Latte Friends to create meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tanya continues to champion inclusive workplaces that foster dignity, purpose, and community connection.
Board MemberTanya Estep
Eva Stockstill
Eva brings over 20 years of leadership experience in retail operations and community service. A lifelong resident of D’Iberville, she is deeply involved in local organizations and currently serves in both business and board leadership roles. As the parent of a child with special needs, Eva brings a personal passion for advocacy and inclusive opportunity to the mission of A Latte Opportunities.
Board Member