The Vision

Back in 2001/2002 a seed was planted and a dream began. Originally, just wanting to open a coffee shop with a declaration of bringing something communal to the city, it has since turned into much more. 

In 2007, I moved to California in pursuit of learning how to be the best in the specialty coffee industry. I learned about this new wave of coffee that not only focused on the individual qualities of each origin-specific coffee but the skill and trade of a barista. It was more than just pushing a button. I worked my way from being a barista at Temple Coffee in Sacramento to managing Bloom Coffee and Tea in Roseville to finally roasting in Reno with The Hub Coffee Roasters. 

I would describe the first few years of learning as being stuck in a black and white gospel. There wasn't gray in how things were done. So even though I was learning this world of "third wave" coffee with excellence, I had lost sight on something just as important; if not more: People.

This is the heart and foundation of Vent Coffee Roasters. 

I can be the best damn roaster or barista around but it is pointless without people to share it with. It would be meaningless without you. I'm reminded of the following wisdom, "If I can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge ... but do not have love, I am nothing."  I want to do what I love with excellence but not at the expense of distancing relationships with my community. I want to bring those two back together.  

A year and a half ago I moved back to Baltimore in hopes to do just that, in a city I love so much. I want Vent to be a place where people can literally come and commune. Let out the things that weigh you down and take in something that will lift your spirits.

This campaign is to open a brick and mortar roastery that will allow space for community to happen. I imagine a small warehouse space where a few roll up garage type doors open to expose an inviting and warm atmosphere. Picnic table type community tables made from reclaimed pallets and steel plumbing pipe. The roaster and its operation will be in full view of our guests. There will be events with focuses on community interests, coffee tastings/pairings, coffee education classes, etc. 

This is exactly what your contribution will help build. 

"This is how WE do it..."(thanks Montell)

In order for Vent Coffee Roasters to make a permanent home, we need to raise $25,000.00. For a start-up business we believe it is doable but only with your help and I would love for you to be a part of this journey. The following is a breakdown of how your contribution will be used. 

$  7,000   Brick & Mortar start-up

$10,800   5 Kilo Diedrich Roaster   

$  2,500   Green Coffee

$  2,700   Single Group Espresso Machine

$  2,000   Miscellaneous items such as large capacity scale, cupping supplies, storage bins and racks, furniture, etc.

*Help me bring her into our family.

I know we can do this even if we don't reach the full goal. Funds raised will first go towards the roaster and green coffee as this will allow me to continue to move forward.

First, I want to say "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Your support means more than words and to show my appreciation, please select a gift at the right according to your donation.

The Impact We Will Make

After a few months of being back in Baltimore, I started struggling, questioning if this was really where I was supposed to build my life. After being away for 5 years it felt different and I was considering moving on. One night after a rough day at work I was heading out of the city on 395 and from the other side of the ramp the Domino Sugar sign (neon) rose in front of me, and there was such a calm that I knew then and there this is home. I fell back in love.

I hear people asking me why I love this city so much and if it is really like The Wire. It is sad to me that people haven't heard about the great things, which I believe outweigh the bad. The don't hear about the art and music scene, the farmers markets, urban farming and the desire to make this city better. I so desperately want to be a part of these great initiatives and to be a thread in the making of the beautiful tapestry that is Baltimore.

This is the impact I want to help Baltimore make on others and that is the impact of your support.

Other Ways You Can Help

Supporting Vent Coffee Roasters is not just done financially but, just as importantly, through helping us spreading our vision and make some noise about this campaign. So, even if you can't contribute, please tell your friends and let's make this happen.