Avivo receives “Excellence in Workforce Development – Employer Partnerships” award for collaboration with Wildflyer Coffee

In February 2025, Avivo received the “Excellence in Workforce Development – Employer Partnerships” award for its collaboration with Wildflyer Coffee, recognizing their joint efforts to help youth experiencing homelessness gain valuable job skills and build stable futures. The award, presented at Minneapolis City Hall, highlighted the significant impact of the partnership, which combines job training, wages, and wraparound services to help youth move toward long-term employment and housing stability.

Becca Lopez, Vice President of Career Education and Employment Services at Avivo, explained that the relationship between Avivo and Wildflyer Coffee is unique because both organizations take a person-centered approach to youth work. “We work together to support the youth we serve, helping them overcome any challenges they face and achieve their goals,” she said. “This partnership allows us to create a comprehensive support system for each individual, helping them gain the skills and confidence needed to build a better future.”

Since the collaboration began in early 2022, the program has provided 45 youth with paid internships at Wildflyer Coffee, where they learn to be baristas while receiving crucial support services from Avivo. Many of the participants have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity, and have often struggled to maintain steady employment.

Close-up of the mayoral proclamation that came as a result of the partnership between Avivo and Wildflyer Coffee.

Program Manager Emily Schloesser emphasized the importance of combining employment opportunities with additional support, “Rather than just placing youth in a job and expecting them to manage everything on their own, our two programs come together to offer the support and resources that help them maintain employment and work toward housing stability.”

The combination of paid work experience, life skills development, and personalized career guidance has proven to be effective. “It’s not just about finding a job and sending someone on their way,” Schloesser shares. “We work one-on-one with participants to set realistic goals, help them find long-term employment, and develop the life and soft skills necessary to be independent and successful.”

The recognition at City Hall was a proud moment for Avivo’s Youth Employment Team. Shares Schloesser, “Being part of a partnership like this is what makes me the most proud. Working alongside Wildflyer Coffee and connecting with other youth workers to improve opportunities for young people is a deeply fulfilling experience. While we don’t do the work for the recognition, it’s nice to be honored for the impact we’re making.”

Looking ahead, Avivo and Wildflyer Coffee remain committed to continuing their work together, supporting even more youth in their journey to economic independence and a stable future.