Nikole Gross pours her heart into the coffee and the people she meets at The Crème Coffee House.
“It’s like my second home,” says Nikole, a staff member of the downtown coffee house. “My heart is attached to the people of The Crème”.
Through the storefront window, construction trucks helping to revitalize downtown fill the frame, in contrast to the eclectic décor of chandeliers, art, and antiques that surrounds customers.
An older man completes his crossword puzzle, a mother helps her son with his homework, two teenage girls laugh and a young couple plays cards. The Crème is a central gathering place for all.
Nikole moved to Owensboro two years ago for her husband’s job. She didn’t know anyone. Through the friendships formed with the staff and customers of The Crème and her church, she now feels at home in her adopted city.
“My sense of belonging developed with the growth of the city,” she says.
Growing up, Nikole often found that home was within the homes of friends and extended family. Today her home and family has an open door to anyone. Faith, family and community outreach holds a primary role in her family’s life.
“I’m going to stand up for people,” she said. “I want (everyone) to feel like they belong.”
Nikole hopes to continue to building relationships and encouraging love and kindness within the community.
“Share the love, start the revolution,” she said.
