There’s something new and delicious brewing at Gaining Grounds Coffee House!

We are excited to welcome a brand-new addition to our menu: freshly made, in-house bagels and pastries crafted by our very own Lead Barista, John.

From Social Work to “John’s Bagels”

John’s love for the coffee and food industry began almost by accident. In 1996, the Electric Brew Coffee Shop had just opened in Downtown Goshen and was located right next to the building where John was then working as a social worker. The excitement of Coffee Shops wasn’t like it is today, but John was interested and stopped by to check it out. Shortly after, he was working part-time at Electric Brew while balancing his full-time social work career.

When the shop wanted to begin offering bagels, John volunteered, even though he didn’t have much baking experience. He did some research and experimented to create his own recipe, and soon people were asking for “John’s bagels” by name.

Baking wasn’t originally part of his plan, but it was something he always felt drawn to. As a child, he spent countless hours watching his maternal grandmother bake. He remembers it feeling calming, almost romantic, and that early impression of baking stuck with him.

That desire to create led him to open John’s Bagels in downtown Elkhart in 2005. The shop served homemade bagels, drinks, and lunch, and quickly became a local favorite. For three years, John poured his heart into a space that celebrated good food and great people. “What I loved most,” he shared, “was being in a creative space and getting to learn new things. I had fantastic customers. It was a joy.”

A New Chapter

Over the years, John has remained connected to hospitality and coffee, always returning to the energy and community that came from the people he serves. So, when he learned about an opportunity at ADEC’s Gaining Grounds Coffee House, it immediately clicked.

“I loved that it was still coffee and hospitality, but with a great cause,” John said. “I worked with Hannah and Friends for a while and learned to love the energy of the individuals they served. They don’t have a lot of expectations for what they need to be happy, and that is inspiring to me.”

As Lead Barista, John sees Gaining Grounds as so much more than a coffee shop. “It’s a space full of opportunity,” he shared. “I’m excited to help Gaining Grounds grow and bring in more support for ADEC’s mission.”

Introducing Bagels and Pastries

One of John’s first goals in his new role was to elevate what Gaining Grounds was already doing well. And he knew exactly where to start!

“There’s just something special about making food in-house,” he said. “It creates a homier atmosphere, bringing everything together.”

Beginning December 1st, guests can enjoy John’s homemade bagels and pastries, made fresh right here at Gaining Grounds Coffee House. These additions bring warmth, creativity, and a personal touch to the shop, while also helping us grow revenue that directly supports ADEC programs and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

A Message from John:

“Gaining Grounds is here,” John says proudly. “Help us spread awareness and bring in more customers. This is a special place with really special people. You can’t get this experience anywhere else, especially now with these bagels!”

We couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re stopping by for your morning coffee, supporting ADEC’s mission through your purchase, or trying one of John’s fresh-baked creations, every visit makes an impact.

Come taste the new chapter of Gaining Grounds, meet John, and be part of the community that makes opportunities rise right alongside our bagels.