Local Good Coffee Co.'s Duglas Blanco: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Service
As Duglas Blanco steps into the new coffee shop nestled within the vibrant community, he brings with him more than just a warm smile and a genuine sense of hospitality. His presence carries the weight of a remarkable journey—one filled with faith, family, and unwavering commitment to service—that has profoundly shaped his life.
Throughout his career in the restaurant industry, Duglas has honed his skills in customer service, always striving to provide exceptional care to patrons. “My first job as a manager was in 2011, and pretty much since then, I've been working at different restaurants," Douglas says. However, as he transitions into his new role at the Local Good Coffee Co., Duglas senses a deeper calling to intertwine his professional expertise with his spiritual beliefs.
In his new position, Duglas sees an opportunity not only to serve delicious coffee but also to create a welcoming environment where guests feel valued and loved. “There’s a thousand different coffee shops around here, but I don't want them to come here just because the coffee is really good, but because of the environment we create,” Duglas says. With each interaction, he seeks to embody the principles of his faith, spreading warmth and kindness to all who enter the shop.
From Costa Rica to the US
Born and raised in Costa Rica, Duglas Blanco's childhood was marked by close-knit family ties and a deep appreciation for his cultural roots. With four sisters, two of whom reside in his homeland and two in the United States, family has always been at the heart of Duglas's life. His fondest memories revolve around the simple yet flavorful meals prepared by his mother and wife, embodying the essence of Costa Rican cuisine.
At the age of 18, Duglas embarked on a journey to the United States, initially intending to earn money for college before returning to his native land. However, fate had other plans, and he found himself building a new life in the U.S. Over the years, he embraced the opportunities and challenges that came his way, eventually settling down with his wife Ana and their three children: Genesis, Benjamin, and Abigail.
Success in the Restaurant Industry
Upon his arrival in the U.S., Duglas found employment in the restaurant industry, where he honed his skills in customer service. Despite the demanding nature of his job, which often required working weekends and holidays, Duglas remained committed to providing exceptional service to patrons. Yet, as time passed, he felt a longing for more time with his family and a career that would align with his values and faith.
After years of prayer and searching, he stumbled upon an opportunity to work at the Local Good Coffee Co., a newly established coffee shop affiliated with his church. Intrigued by the prospect of combining his passion for service with his commitment to his faith, Duglas seized the opportunity and transitioned into a managerial role.
Embracing a Higher Calling
For Duglas, the decision to leave behind his previous career was not about financial gain but about finding fulfillment and aligning with his faith. At Local Good Coffee Co., he finds purpose in serving the community while creating a welcoming environment where guests feel valued and loved. Despite earning less money in his new role, he finds peace and contentment in knowing that he is following God's plan for his life.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Duglas is filled with a sense of purpose and anticipation. He knows that this journey will not only enrich his own life but also those he encounters along the way. “We can do little things—little details that can change people's lives,” he says.
Duglas Blanco's story serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of purpose. With faith as his guide and service as his mission, Duglas Blanco stands ready to make a meaningful impact in the hearts and minds of the community he serves.
Love great coffee and great people? Join us for the grand opening of Local Good Coffee Co. on April 20, 2024! Find more info here.