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About Us
Inclusivity... One cup at a time.....
Opportunity Cafe is a unique social venture in Kolkata, started by the foundation as part of their larger mission to create sustainable solutions for vulnerable children and orphan transitioning adults, especially those with intellectual disabilities. It’s India’s first non-profit cafe run by these young adults, supported by victims of human trafficking from rehabilitation homes and children from red-light areas.
Our Story
Opportunity Cafe was launched in January 2024, as the culmination of a plan that began 11 years ago. The need to start this cafe arose when the foundation realized that transitioning orphans with intellectual disabilities required a sustainable, constructive solution to thrive after they aged out of the protection of childcare institutions (CCI).
Opportunity Cafe offers not just good food but also a space filled with consistent open mic events, including live music and stand-up comedy. The cafe’s decor is aesthetically pleasing and Instagrammable, creating an inviting environment for its youthful patrons. The food is priced competitively, ensuring accessibility while maintaining high-quality service and ambiance.
The cafe has been a huge success, attracting significant local and global attention for its inclusive model. It’s a testament to the abilities of these young adults, who thrive when given the right opportunities. Visitors love the welcoming atmosphere, and many have become repeat customers, appreciating the cause behind the cafe.
The first Opportunity Cafe’s success has led to plans for expansion, with fundraising underway for the second cafe. The goal is to replicate this model across South and East Kolkata, further expanding its impact.
By setting up additional cafes, the foundation aims to bring hope and sustainable change to more vulnerable young adults.
The fundraising campaign for the second Opportunity Cafe is a key initiative. It seeks to generate enough resources to continue the mission of empowering these individuals and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The funds raised will help open more outlets, employ more people, and sustain the current operations while making a lasting change in the lives of orphaned adults and survivors.
Opportunity Cafe is part of the broader work of the Rescue and Relief Foundation and is a one-stop solution for empowering vulnerable transitioning adults leaving CNCP and CWSN homes across various projects managed by the organization. This foundation operates rehabilitation homes and works extensively with vulnerable populations, such as victims of human trafficking and children from red-light areas.
Mission, Vision Goal
Vision: The vision of Opportunity Cafe is to create an inclusive society where individuals with intellectual disabilities, survivors of human trafficking, and vulnerable children from marginalized backgrounds are empowered to live independent, dignified lives. By providing sustainable employment opportunities, the cafe aims to challenge societal norms and showcase the potential of these individuals, fostering an environment of acceptance and growth.
Mission: As an initiative of the Rescue and Relief Foundation, Opportunity Cafe is committed to offering a safe, nurturing, and inclusive workspace for young adults transitioning out of orphanages and vulnerable environments. The cafe’s mission is to equip these individuals with life skills, financial independence, and social integration through meaningful employment and training. By blending social good with a thriving cafe business, the mission is to create a sustainable model that can be replicated across different regions, driving long-term impact.
Goal: The primary goal of Opportunity Cafe is to expand its reach, with plans to establish two more outlets in Kolkata, ensuring a greater number of individuals benefit from this initiative. The broader goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem, linked to the Rescue and Relief Foundation, where vulnerable individuals are supported through training, employment, and holistic rehabilitation, ultimately building brighter futures for them.
Welcome to
Opportunity Skills Academy
Opportunity Skills Academy (OSA) is an extension of the vision set forth by the Rescue and Relief Foundation and Opportunity Cafe, aimed at providing vulnerable young adults with the skills they need to transition into independent, fulfilling lives. The academy is designed to address the gaps in education and vocational training for individuals with intellectual disabilities, survivors of human trafficking, and vulnerable children aging out of orphanages. Its mission is to bridge the gap between shelter and self-sufficiency through comprehensive skill development programs tailored to each individual's abilities and aspirations.
Why Skills Academy?
At Opportunity Skills Academy, the curriculum is structured to focus on vocational training, life skills, and employability. The vocational training programs include sectors such as hospitality, culinary arts, craftsmanship, and retail management—areas where participants can build practical, marketable skills that lead to sustainable employment. OSA ensures that students receive theoretical instruction and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.
In addition to technical skills, the academy places significant emphasis on life skills development, including communication, financial literacy, personal hygiene, time management, and teamwork. These essential skills empower students to thrive both professionally and personally, helping them navigate adulthood with confidence.
Opportunity Skills Academy also offers psychological counseling, mentorship, and support systems to address the emotional and psychological challenges many of these individuals face due to their past experiences. The academy fosters a nurturing and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to dream big, work hard, and envision a future filled with possibilities.
The long-term goal of Opportunity Skills Academy is to create a replicable model that can be scaled across different regions in India, offering thousands of marginalized young adults the chance to lead dignified and independent lives, breaking the cycle of poverty, exploitation, and social exclusion.
