In Michigan, after 26 years of age, special needs individuals people can no longer attend public school. For these individuals and their families, what to do next is a real challenge. In 2007, a local group of retired teachers, parents, and volunteers got together to see if they could provide some type of meaningful employment for those adults. There is a real need to provide employment for special needs adults, not only in Cadillac, but throughout Michigan.

The After 26 group was originally inspired by a Chesaning restaurant called the Junction of Hope. It is the first non-profit 501 c-3 restaurant in the country, and their purpose is to employ special needs adults in Southern Saginaw, County. Following their example, After 26 filed for non-profit status with the federal government, and received tax exempt status in the summer of 2008. 

With non-profit status attained, the After 26 board of directors is now on a path to open the After 26 Depot Café and Unique Gifts. The next step is to raise funds for the opening. Success will be achieved with the employment of special needs adults. Having a job builds  self-worth, self esteem, and allows special needs adults to make a meaningful contribution, and get a pay check.  With the advent of the AMVET building location, 127 West Cass Street, our mission has been modified.  Before opening we must address the renovation/remodel requirements of the building.  The building was the original Ann Arbor Railroad Depot and first opened in 1911.  While a good portion of the historical elements remain, the building does require substantial renovation. This makes our task a little more involved, but we are enthused about helping renovate this magnificent historic building.  We are in the early stages of renovating the north side of the AMVET building. Fully renovated the former Ann Arbor Railroad Depot will be one of the most interesting historical buildings in the region. Upon completion of the building, we will open the After26 Depot and fulfill our mission of employing special needs adults who reside in Wexford Missaukee and Osceola Counties.  Fundraising will come from grant funding, monetary donations, and in-kind service. We estimate total costs to open around $500,000. We have raised $38,000 of our own funds and have also been awarded  $75,000 in grant funding from the USDA. We continue to apply for grant funding and welcome any donations.  Thank you for visiting our web site and supporting our cause!