Dialogue Coffee House opens newest location at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS), Capper Foundation and Dialogue Coffee House have joined forces to bring a new Dialogue location to the BCBSKS Topeka campus. A ribbon cutting was held on May 15.

The new location, now open, blends Dialogue’s commitment to employment of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with BCBSKS, a local company already embracing diversity, equity and inclusion in their everyday work. Together, the organizations will celebrate individuals of all abilities and provide safe spaces for individuals to learn and be themselves.

“We are thrilled to be able to support our friends at Capper Foundation and Dialogue Coffee House through this new partnership,” said Matt All, BCBSKS President/CEO. “At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas we encourage our employees to bring their authentic, whole selves to work. With Dialogue on site, we’re able to create more opportunities for not just our employees but the entire community to embrace what makes us each unique.”

This partnership marks a significant step toward a shared mission of inclusivity and empowerment for all Kansans.

“Dialogue Coffee House at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas reflects Capper Foundation’s vision for enhancing career opportunities for Kansans of all abilities and instilling crucial life skills,” said Zach Ahrens, President & CEO, Capper Foundation. “This collaboration is a perfect blend, demonstrating the long-term commitment of Blue Cross and Capper Foundation to create a community where every individual, regardless of ability can be valued and enjoy access, independence, and opportunities to advance their hopes and dreams. We’re thrilled to partner with BCBSKS in furthering this mission.”

As part of this partnership, the two groups are launching a new signature blend called Capper-nated, with a purpose of promoting the message that, “The world needs who you were made to be.” The new blend will be sold at all Dialogue locations.

“We are committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion and recognizing the importance of ensuring people of all backgrounds and abilities are seen, heard and valued,” said Lonnie Walker, Jr., BCBSKS Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “Capper Foundation and Dialogue do this work so well and we are proud to partner with them to further promote conversation around acceptance and inclusivity.”

Dialogue officially joined the Capper Foundation family in April 2023, allowing the organization to support more individuals in the community with career training and opportunities to be valued, enjoy access and independence to advance their hopes and dreams. This latest partnership between BCBSKS and Capper Foundation builds upon a long history between the two organizations.

The location at BCBSKS will be open to the public Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Guests should park in the visitor parking spots in front of Building B, located at the SE corner of 11th St. and Polk St.