A Little Compassion, Inc. provides an array of services including:

• The Nest Coffee House, affectionately known as The Nest, stands as the flagship initiative of A Little Compassion, Inc. It’s more than just a coffee shop; it’s a haven of inclusivity and warmth for all. In a world where young adults with autism, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and other neurodiversities often struggle to find meaningful work and connections, The Nest offers the solace and support they need. It’s a place where they can engage with coworkers, customers, peers, and the wider community. It’s a delightful coffee experience that goes beyond a cup of joe, where every sip fosters opportunities and embodies compassion.
• The N.E.S.T. Program, or New Employment Skills Training, offers a tailored workforce development experience. Over 4-6 weeks, participants engage in 2-4 hours of adaptable training to build self-confidence, basic work skills, and interpersonal abilities. This program provides valuable work experience and career exploration in our flagship program, The Nest Coffee House, led by experienced staff and specially trained job coaches.
• Nest Gatherings is your go-to destination for a diverse range of social events tailored to teens, young adults, and families. Our calendar is packed with anime and game nights, creative collage sessions, documentary screenings, guest speakers, and hands-on demos in art and cooking. Whether you’re a young adult seeking a welcoming space to connect or a family looking for quality time, there’s something for everyone. We prioritize inclusivity, with a special focus on providing a safe and supportive environment for neurodiverse teens and young adults ages 14-30. You can join our gatherings both online (via Zoom) or in person at The Nest Coffee House in Deep River, CT.
• The Acceptance, Inclusion, & Outreach Program is dedicated to promoting the value and integration of young adults with neurodiversity in our communities. We’re advocates for inclusion, compassion, and acceptance, and we invite everyone to join us in spreading this message. Our activities, from Coffee and Conversation events to Sensory Training, Children’s Compassion Story Hour, and annual Neurodiversity Acceptance events (Compassion Walk and Lantern Illumination Celebration) are designed to foster a safe and inclusive community.
• The “Possibilities Boutique at The Nest” is a unique treasure within our Deep River coffee house, showcasing quality, hand-crafted and fair-trade items in all mediums created by artists of ALL abilities. This boutique empowers local artists, including “Exceptional Artists,” to display and sell their high-quality creations for the community to purchase and enjoy.
• Doggie Barks offers healthy dog treats crafted by individuals of all abilities, embracing diversity and inclusivity. Partnering with four coastal breweries in Connecticut, we repurpose donated spent grains to handcraft fresh peanut butter dog treats. With a simple recipe of just four ingredients – spent grain, flour, eggs, and peanut butter, Doggie Barks has gained popularity, currently stocked in 17 local businesses. Beyond its deliciousness, this project serves multiple purposes: it promotes sustainability by repurposing spent grains, offers pet owners an all-natural, wholesome treat for their dogs, and, most importantly, creates job opportunities and skill development for neurodivergent young adults, fostering their growth in the workforce.