10/29/2026
Dave and Sara,
In 2018, during our freshman year at NC State, Sara sent us an email.
321 Coffee barely existed. We had only done a few events on campus. When we saw her name in our inbox, we thought it was spam. Why would Sara Doeren be reaching out to us?
The answer was simple: Sara and Dave saw something in 321 long before most people. From that first email on, they didn't just support our mission.
They became part of our story.
Dave and players came to our Farmers Market shop as celebrity baristas.
Years ago, Lindsay and I were in Athens and spotted a UGA coffee can. We sent Sara a picture and asked: How do we make this happen at NC State?
Sara started connecting the dots. Months later, Greater Good was born.
The Doerens brought our team to football games, and were incredibly generous with their time and platform.
But what we'll remember most is how they championed Sam.
For years, Sam spent Monday mornings serving coffee to NC State Football. In that time, we watched him build genuine relationships with the coaches and staff.
They didn't just make room for Sam. They made sure he knew he belonged.
That spirit extended far beyond 321.
Through Victory Day with GiGi's Playhouse Raleigh, One Pack NIL Empowered at NC State University, and many moments in between, Dave and Sara showed up for people with disabilities and their families.
There will be plenty written about Dave's time at NC State. Wins and losses. Big games and tough ones. Seasons will be remembered for many reasons.
We want to make sure this gets remembered, too.
Dave and Sara believed in 321 from the start.
They championed Sam, opened doors, created opportunities and used their platform to make people with disabilities feel valued, included, and part of something bigger.
Their impact on this community reaches far beyond the football field.
Dave and Sara, thank you for believing in 321 before most people knew our name. We'll never forget it.
Go Pack,
Lindsay + Michael
321 Coffee
