Today we’d like to introduce you to Asia Anderson.
Asia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Houston Coffee Collective (referred to from hereon in as the “HtxCC”) not yet established as a Nonprofit Organization (501c3) with the expectation of rapid expansion in the industry.
The Houston Coffee Collective is a pending 501(c)3 community organization that serves as a platform for coffee enthusiasts and professionals to connect, share knowledge and promote growth within the community with the following goals:
To provide a platform to build connections between the general and coffee community
To organize and assist with social, educational, competitive and informative coffee events
To share knowledge and create and provide resources to the wider community
To create opportunities for individuals who work in coffee to develop (from beginner to professional levels)
To act as a contact point, resource, and sounding board for the Houston coffee community
To offer as many services as possible for low cost or free to the local community
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to discover and explore the opportunities that coffee brings on an economic, socio-cultural, educational level. HtxCC is based in Houston and aims to prioritize Houston and surrounding cities. We will also look to connect with coffee professionals across disciplines and geographical limitations when necessary.
HtxCC formed as a volunteer-led organization in 2018 and has since been a reference for new coffee shops, job searches, hospitality requests and host of national and international competitions, educational and social events. Events held by the HtxCC have been self funded and/or relied on sponsorships and support from the local community. The goal going forward is to be able to sustain the established programs to give back to the community that has supported us on individual and business levels.
Vision: To inspire, connect and empower the coffee community through community-driven resources for businesses, professionals and enthusiasts, scholarships and grants for competitive and educational travel, and recognition of all of the people that help move the industry forward.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
– Keeping up with the growth of Houston’s coffee scene because it grows quickly
– Staying on top of the 501c3 process.
– Figuring out the balance of funding + volunteer work
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
HtxCC aims to first and foremost offer resources for the coffee community and includes but is not limited to the following groups:
Industry professionals: Baristas, Roasters, Shop Owners, Machine Techs, Competitors, etc.
Industry Enthusiasts: Community members that do not work in coffee but have a passion for coffee
General: Community members that are interested in the coffee industry and community but don’t yet have any information about the industry.
Resources may include:
List of coffee shop contact information with special category designations (catering, event space, conference rooms for rent, etc.)
Coffee Map
References for community aid, disaster relief, education resources
Consulting programs for individuals and businesses
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.htxcoffeecollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/htxcoffeecollective/
