Paper Planes Café Continues to Brew Change and Expand Its Reach

Since opening, Paper Planes Café has served over 45,000 customers and poured 38,000 coffees. 

Most importantly, the program has supported 31 autistic and neurodivergent individuals through hands-on training — 18 have gone on to secure meaningful employment, including eight hired by the Pacific Autism Family Network. Additionally, six graduates have since gained further experience through volunteer roles.

The team behind the counter includes baristas with a wide range of abilities, each bringing their own unique talents and goals to the role.

Matthew and Sakura are two passionate team members who have grown both personally and professionally during their time at Paper Planes.

Matthew says that staying busy, earning money, and learning how to make different hot drinks has been especially rewarding.

“Working here helps me understand how to do hard work. It makes me feel helpful and talented,” said Matthew.

Thanks to his dedication and training at Paper Planes, Matthew was recently hired by Leavenly Goods.

For Sakura, the café has been an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills, and work toward her dream of opening her own nail art business.

Sakura credits her trainers for helping her strengthen her food safety knowledge and time management.

“I loved learning about making drinks like a cappuccino, which is my favourite. I also learned a lot of great teamwork.”

Now, Sakura is taking the next step in her journey at the brand-new Paper Planes Patio—a vibrant new café located at the Pacific Autism Family Network’s centre in Richmond.

“I’m looking forward to training other trainees, to pass along my skills,” said Sakura.

Paper Planes Patio is an exciting extension of the Paper Planes Café mission, offering even more opportunities for training, growth, and inclusion.

Visit Paper Planes Café

Vancouver International Airport – Domestic Arrivals

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Now Open: Paper Planes Patio

Pacific Autism Family Network Centre of Excellence

3688 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC V7B 0A2

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Closed daily from 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM