Seniors Happy Café
Note: This document provides just a basic concept. It could be modified in a variety of ways, as long as it provides the environment and opportunity for the intended target group.
CONCEPT:
What: A pleasant café environment where Seniors can gather, meet and relax to enjoy a satisfying café experience, all at suitably reduced prices. Sit down only.
Why: To create a situation where Seniors are encouraged to connect face to face more often.
Objectives: To see at least 50 to 100 seniors visit each day and spend an average of $8 - $10 each. To make a net minimum profit of $300 - $500 each day.
Where: In suitable premises with easy access. A typical example could be a facility or community hall that is not in constant use.
When: Initially one day a week, such as Tuesday or Wednesday between 10am – 2.30pm only. Extra days could be added depending on popularity.
Who: The Café to be operated as a fundraiser by a community minded group, service club, Church or individual. Café would be managed by a suitably qualified person (or persons) and staffed by volunteers. If considered appropriate, manager could be a paid position.
Menu: The initial menu would offer limited choices and be appropriate to Seniors. It could vary as needed. Typical choices could include Hot drinks - biscuits, cakes, slices, scones, raisin toast – and 3 - 4 sandwich options.
Growth: Depending on success and development, menu could extend to offer up to 6 popular meal options such as fish, lasagne, quiche, pasta, chicken schnitzel, home-made pie and 2 -3 dessert options.
Pricing: Drinks $3 - $3.50, cakes/slices $3 - $4, sandwiches $5 - $6, meals $8 - $12, desserts $5 - $6.
Embellishments: Commercial coffee machine, background music (possibly provided by a live guest pianist/entertainer) Invited weekly table exhibitor such as craft, photos, hobbies, club profile.
Basic Equipment: Includes Tables, chairs, cash handling and eftpos facilities. Uniform and monogrammed aprons, bonnets?
Expenses: Manager, Order books, any needed resources not already available.
Marketing: Local media (Community Service), Facebook, Seniors Clubs/Groups.
Profits: After expenses profits go to the Group who provide the volunteers to use or distribute as desired. Could be to support a local or elsewhere project (or projects).