Inspired by Ryan. Powered by Purpose. Built for Community.
Built for Community.
Ryan's Rise Up Café was born from a simple idea: when given opportunity, people rise. After graduation, Ryan, like many young adults plan like him, faced limited paths toward meaningful work. We knew our community could do more.
So we created a place where ability is celebrated, and purpose is shared. Through hands-on job training and real employment, we provide dignified, meaningful work that aligns individual strengths with impactful roles, ensuring each team member is seen for who they truly are.
We strive to transform community perceptions by showcasing the talents and contributions of our diverse team, inviting every guest to be part of shifting the narrative around disability.
"I love coming to work every day. Making coffee and seeing our customers smile is the best part of my job."
Ryan Vail | Barista
Ryan Vail | Barista
"I love coming to work every day. Making coffee and seeing our customers smile is the best part of my job."
Our Team Is Our Mission in Motion
At Ryan's Rise Up Café, our mission is to:
- Cultivate community engagement for all ages and all abilities
- Transform community perceptions by showcasing the talents and contributions of our diverse team members
- Empower our team to become advocates for themselves and others
- Provide dignified, meaningful employment that matches individual strengths with purposeful roles
- Build partnerships with local organizations to multiply our community impact
- Engage our community as active participants in changing the narrative around disability
Team Bios
Each member of the Ryan's Rise Up team plays a vital part in bringing our mission to life. Their skills, stories, and passions build a café culture grounded in inclusion and genuine connection.
Ryan Vail
Ryan is more than the name on the door. He is the café's spokesperson, occasional barista, and the inspiration behind everything we do. His joy, resilience, and spirit moved his parents to turn a lifelong dream into something real, a café where people of all abilities are valued, celebrated, and given the opportunity to rise. Every cup we serve is a tribute to him.
James Vail
Ryan's Dad
A lifelong Delco resident and Glen Mills local of 20 years, Jim has been the owner of a commercial construction company serving the Mid-Atlantic region for over 25 years. He is a proud father of four and serves as Director of RRU Café, where he is present daily to support the staff, services, and mission of inclusion and belonging.
Rose Vail
Ryan's Mom
Rose is Ryan’s mom, best pal, and a key leader at Ryan’s Rise Up Café. A former ultrasound sonographer, she is now a full-time caregiver and advocate supporting Ryan’s daily needs, appointments, and activities. As Secretary of the nonprofit, Rose plays an active role in the café, supporting inclusive employment, assisting with job skills training, and helping create a welcoming community space.
James Vail Jr.
Ryan's Brother
James is Ryan’s older brother and biggest role model. A 2025 graduate of the University of Scranton, he works full-time as a cloud engineer with an internationally based software firm. At Ryan’s Rise Up Café, James supports operations across the café, providing kitchen assistance, technology support, and hands-on help to ensure a smooth, inclusive workplace.
Celeste Vail
Ryan's Sister
Celeste is Ryan’s sister and a steady presence at Ryan’s Rise Up Café. A senior at Archmere Academy, she supports the café’s mission by assisting team members at the front counter and coffee service. Celeste also helps lead activities in the sensory room, supporting job readiness, confidence-building, and an inclusive café environment.
Katy Vail
Ryan's Sister
Katy is Ryan’s youngest sister and an active supporter of Ryan’s Rise Up Café. An 8th-grade student at Sacred Heart Academy in Bryn Mawr, she is Ryan’s reading and workout buddy and a constant source of encouragement. In the café, Katy supports team members on the floor and at the front counter, helping reinforce teamwork, confidence, and community inclusion.
When individuals are empowered, communities grow stronger. Every day, our team leads by example. Showing what's possible when we create workplaces rooted in dignity, purpose, and opportunity.