Café au Play begins with the premise that one of the best ways to support children is to nurture connections among caregivers, promote the mental health of parents, and empower people of all ages to see themselves as both givers and receivers of resources. We want to foster spontaneous and genuine community among families in Portland, reaching out to underserved and isolated families. Unlike a typical community center, Café au Play will offer food and drink, a familiar and communal activity that promotes social interaction. And the activities, classes, and support groups offered at Café au Play will be available to all patrons on a drop-in basis. The coffeehouse will provide a welcoming, comfortable environment where children and adults can gather on a daily basis so over time, they can develop lasting friendships and exchange resources.

The participation of young adults and the elderly, who are sometimes segregated from young children, are particularly important to another aspect of our mission - to facilitate community between generations. The older person who reads to young children feels needed and appreciated. The young child who sees teenagers perform music or drama sees possibilities for herself. Our partnerships with local senior centers and schools will help establish relationships that simultaneously support families, young adults, and seniors.

Café au Play combines the functions of a coffeehouse, a family service provider, a community center, and a third place. Café au Play will be an informal drop-in location that creates the possibility for encountering the same people week after week without the need for scheduling a meeting or paying a membership fee.

The café will have safe and dedicated play areas, healthy food and drink options, and both informal and structured activities for children and adults. It will become a central location for families seeking programs, information, and support specifically directed to their needs and interests. And the programs will focus on the entire family in the context of its culture and community. The broad mix of play, education, and social services offered at Café au Play will provide holistic, preventive, and community-based services.

Café au Play will empower adults in their roles as parents, nurturers, and providers. We want families to make a personal investment in the cafe community and take an active role in providing the support they need. We will encourage adults to participate in program decision-making, design and lead activities, and advocate for a more supportive community for families.