Jalynn Barr is deeply passionate about her family, her community, her work, and causes that uplift others. Among these, childhood cancer advocacy remains especially close to her heart. She previously served on the Young Professional Leadership Council for CURE Childhood Cancer, where she helped bring others into the fight for children facing cancer.
“As a mother, I can’t imagine having one of my daughters in treatment,” Jalynn shared. “When I learned how little funding goes toward childhood cancer research, I knew I had to get involved.”
Jalynn has spent her entire career in the food service industry, where she developed a love for connecting with people. About a year before opening Community Cup, she began feeling a pull to build something of her own. During a 40-day yoga challenge, a question kept resurfacing: Is there a way to turn what I love into a career that also supports a cause I care deeply about?
That question led to the creation of Community Cup.
Located just off the square in downtown Cumming, the café benefits from both strong foot traffic and accessibility. While the menu centers around high-quality coffee, it also includes creative, family-friendly options—such as drinks with edible glitter—designed to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all ages.
Jalynn’s vision goes beyond serving great coffee. Community Cup is built to be a positive force within the community. By sourcing baked goods from local bakeries and coffee from nearby roasters, the business reinvests directly into its neighbors. It also partners with local schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations to support fundraising efforts and community initiatives.
In addition to her work at Community Cup, Jalynn continues to serve her community through leadership and volunteerism. She is a member of Leadership Forsyth, serves on the United Way board, and volunteers as a cheerleading coach—further reflecting her commitment to investing in the next generation.
Additionally, a portion of the shop’s daily proceeds is donated to CURE Childhood Cancer, supporting the children and families that inspired Jalynn’s mission.
“I truly believe we have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference,” she said. “Starting here in Cumming, and through our partnership with CURE, extending far beyond.”
While she dreams of one day seeing a Community Cup on every corner across the country, Jalynn remains grounded in what matters most: building a successful business, spending quality time with her family, finding fulfillment in her work, and making a lasting impact in her community.
If she can achieve those things, she’ll consider it a success.