Individuals with developmental disabilities have the same kind of physical, social, psychological, emotional and vocational interests and needs as non-disabled persons. It is the philosophy of Janus Developmental Services, Inc. that individuals with disabilities should be provided with opportunities to become participating and contributing members of the community.
The “Capabilities Café and Catering Program” is a real life vision of that mission. In 1992, the “Capabilities Café was established through a partnership between the Commissioners of Hamilton County and Janus Developmental Services, Inc. The Capabilities Café is located in the basement of the Hamilton County Judicial Building. Through this vital joint effort, individuals with developmental delays are prepared to interact with customers professionally, to handle food safely and properly, to stock vending machines, to manage purchasing and inventory, to prepare a variety of menu items, and to develop money skills as well as the implementation of safety and security practices and procedures. The individuals served through this program also collaborate with local area restaurants to expand the menu choices for the patrons of their establishment. A Capabilities Café is also located at the Janus Developmental Services, Inc. corporate headquarters at 1555 Westfield Road, Noblesville IN.
CAFE MENU
MONDAY - Arby's Roast Beef Sandwich with a side and fruit or pudding
TUESDAY - Tacos, a side, and applesauce
WEDNESDAY - Mancino's Turkey and Ham & Cheese Grinders with chips and a cookie
THURSDAY - Subway sandwiches with chips and fruit
FRIDAY - Mancino's pizza with a salad and a cookie |
Daniel was diagnosed with Down Syndrome as an infant. At a time when an education was not readily available to those living with disabilities, Daniel successfully progressed through the Tipton County school system and graduated from Tipton High School in 1983. Shortly after graduation, Daniel came to work at Janus in the Work Experience Program and received additional training in the Habilitation Program. Janus staff has stated that Daniel exhibited leadership ability among his peers and his upbeat and kind spirit engenders enthusiasm. Daniel excelled with the aid of the Work Experience and Habilitation staff in learning many independent living and employability skills, such as working accurately with money, food preparation and customer service skills. In April of 2007, Daniel became the assistant manager of the Janus Capabilities Café located in Hamilton County Judicial building in Noblesville. Daniel at times has operated the Café’ independently. He consistently has trained new staff members, and administrates placing orders with vendors and suppliers. Daniel inspires those working around him. One of the customers that regularly patrons the Capabilities Café’ said that he appreciates how very hard Daniel works and that he always does his very best to get the job done correctly and he smiles “the whole time”. Daniel loves to go to work at the Café and is dedicated to providing the best service he can. Daniel’s hard work and dedication to a job well done coupled with the training he received through programs and services at Janus have truly “opened the door to a world of possibilities” in his life. Daniel is a success by anyone’s standards. 
