A new coffee shop in Sylvan Lake hopes to be serving up a lot more than just tasty coffee and baking.

Timber Coffee Co. opened just one month ago; it's a venture by Central Alberta Youth Unlimited which operates on a vision to see the hope and potential in every young person.

Youth Unlimited is expanding programs to Sylvan Lake for the first time and instead of opening a drop in centre, they stepped outside the box in hopes of really getting to know the youth in the communtiy according to Dan Jensen, the Sylvan Lake Project Manager "what we're excited about is how we can use this space to actually run some programs out of, so to build relationships with kids and not just serve coffee but actually pour into their lives and help them as they figure out what they want to do in the future and who they want to be".

Timber Coffee Co. is located on 50th Street, Jensen explains how it's the perfect fit "we are leasing the front part of the building that also houses Incline Industries, so we've worked with Darcy Carruthers.  We've got beautiful windows and a great view with one of the busier streets in Sylvan Lake right at our front door.  We are approximately 200 meters from the only High School in town.  Our goal, our vision was to be close to the kids so they can come up here for lunch time, and study hours".

Jensen says they'll be working with HJ Cody High School to implement some work experience programs, and they also have plans to add some Youth Unlimited programs that are running in other communities like Life 360 where kids can talk about their problems and Stepping Stones for single moms who need support.

Any profits the coffee shop makes over and above their budget go towards facilitating youth programs, adventure trips and supports for kids.

Jensen says they're excited to see different generations connecting, and they are hoping to see some 40 to 60 olds who are excited to play crib or bridge, help engage youth through some teaching nights.

Find Out More About Timber Coffee Co.

All of the baking served up at the shop is made in house, they serve Rave Coffee from Canmore and Blue Hour Tea from Edmonton.