Watching the evolution of Ian Happ, the ballplayer, has been an absolute pleasure over the years — even the bumpy parts. This guy started as a top-10 pick, rose quickly through the system, and dealt with a crushing and unexpected demotion to the minors … all before becoming the the *obvious* choice to bat leadoff for the Chicago Cubs over multiple seasons. But his evolution off the field has arguably been even more special.
Aside from taking on the responsibility of becoming the Cubs players association representative (which may be a more important job right now than it has been in 30 years), he’s made such a positive impact in Chicago through his generous acts of charity and kindness.
By now, I’m guessing you’ve already heard of his Quarantine Coffee for COVID Relief, which donates proceeds to organizations like the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the Save the Children foundation. But he’s about to amp that up a lot.
Just take a look at what he’s got … brewing (I couldn’t resist the pun, I’m very sorry):
Happ is now creating a coffee subscription service (I *love* subscription-based products) that will donate $1 for every pound of coffee they sell (you can see the quantities, prices, and more details above).
But that’s not all … every time Happ hits a home run this season (he’s projected for close to 30, but I bet he beats that (for what it’s worth, his goal is 30)), subscribers will get $5 Dinger Dollars to use on coffee and merch (or anything else) at the Connect Roasters site. Each shipment also comes with a personal note from Happ, and there will even be monthly memorabilia drops (like game used and autographed stuff) available only to subscribers.
So to recap that, you get (1) great coffee at a good price, (2) access to exclusive game-used and autographed memorabilia, and (3) a financial reason to root for even more Happ home runs. All while supporting local Chicago charities. Like, yo. I really love it.
There are currently four coffee flavors. I went with the Dominican:
Happ is hoping to get 1,000 subscribers, but I think we can blow that away.
And make no mistake, this whole thing is about charity for Happ. And, heck, us too. Neither Happ nor Connect Roasters is a partner of Bleacher Nation, but when he reached out to see if I’d help push some subscriptions so that we could raise more money for these organizations, I couldn’t say no. The guy is passionate about making a difference and coffee is just the vehicle to get him there.
So if you like coffee, Happ, or homers – or just want to make a positive impact of your own – please consider signing up for the subscription. It’s going to be very worth it and very awesome.
The Cubs are lucky to have a guy like Happ. Now let’s help him feel the warmth, Chicago.