Joe's Table - A True Story: A Place Where Disabilities Become Gifts

Hi, my name is Joe. What is your name? You will see these words on the wall inside a unique café called Joe’s Table, named after Joseph Chung. Joseph was diagnosed with autism at a young age and was also afflicted with a seizure disorder. Because Joseph loved to socialize in his own loving and harmless way, Dr. Stephanie Chung and her husband envisioned a job where Joseph could experience the joy and self-esteem that come from having meaningful work. Joe had a talent for engaging people by greeting them. A coffee shop seemed like the perfect place for that gift. In Joe’s Table, Stephanie shares her story of:

• a son birthed in joy and later diagnosed with autism.
• a long battle raising an autistic son, and the journey that made her understand God’s providence and compassion.
• heaven’s comfort for mothers who struggle and grieve because their children are different than they expected.
• a disability that became a blessing to teach God’s love.

Joseph passed away unexpectedly in September 2012. Stephanie had to face despair and frustration once again as she sent her child to heaven before her. In that moment, she met the heart of God. Joe’s Table continued to evolve and had its grand opening on June 24, 2013. Now it is a one-of-a-kind coffee shop that serves the community and opens employment opportunities for those with different abilities.