Our Story
We love our Northern California community and have operated a family owned roastery on the Mendocino Coast since 1972. We are proud to be Certified B Corp who partners with small family farms and Fair Trade coffee cooperatives on five continents. Coffee is our medium, “Not Just A Cup, But A Just Cup” is our message.
Not Just A Cup, But A Just Cup
In 1984, The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) hosted its first conference, entitled “Coffee, Human Rights, and Third World Economies.” Paul, President of SCAA at the time, visited Nicaragua the following year for the first time. When he witnessed the poor living conditions of the coffee farmers first hand it radically changed his view of coffee and how it should be produced and traded. The trip ignited Thanksgiving Coffee’s mission to become a force for good, committed to improving the lives of our coffee farming family. The company motto was born on Paul’s flight back from Nicaragua on April 17th, 1985 — Not Just A Cup, But A Just Cup. Thanksgiving Coffee became a conscious company, focused on global, environmental, economic, and social justice. The company’s Fair Trade practices and philanthropic partnerships have enabled coffee cooperatives to build schools, improve roads, and provide healthcare for workers in their communities.
Our Location
In the beginning, Noyo Harbor was surrounded by rugged fishermen, artisan boat builders, cranky deck hands and the salty aroma of a true working harbor. It was a vibrant, resource-rich environment in the 70s. Thanksgiving Coffee is deeply committed to the coastal community, where its been located for over 47 years. Local employees roast, package, deliver and ship our products directly from the roastery that overlooks the scenic Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, California.
Sustainably Focused
In the Noyo Harbor, Paul and Joan witnessed firsthand how trickle-down economics and lack of sustainability affected their local economy. The salmon catches decrease each year, forcing fishermen out of work. They witnessed mass deforestation of redwood trees, logged irresponsibly which closed the local mill, and more jobs were lost. Many talented artisans disappeared from the area, leaving unemployment and a struggling community. These injustices were a crucible for them to do and be better as a company. Inspired by these lessons, Thanksgiving Coffee is dedicated to a light footprint on the planet and a heavy focus on economic justice. Every pound of coffee Thanksgiving roasts, and every cup you brew, celebrates the craftsmanship of family farmers and provides stability and hope — here in Mendocino County and in communities around the world.