In an inspiring narrative of transition and enterprise, a former USAID communications specialist has embarked on a new journey, establishing a coffee business rooted in both passion and purpose. This new venture, initiated from her Maryland residence, is rapidly gaining recognition for its commitment to delivering meticulously roasted coffee and fostering well-being, while also dedicating a portion of its earnings to a global humanitarian cause. It showcases a powerful blend of personal ambition and social responsibility, proving that new beginnings can be brewed with a profound impact.

A New Dawn for Coffee Enthusiasts in Maryland

On the scenic Western Shore of Chesapeake Bay, specifically from her home in Deale, Maryland, Annie Leverich, a former seasoned communications advisor with USAID, introduced her innovative online coffee brand, First Light Coffee, earlier this year. This mother of two has transformed her deep-seated appreciation for coffee into a thriving enterprise, offering not only expertly roasted beans but also a curated selection of wellness merchandise through her digital storefront. Leverich's professional background, heavily involved in crisis response and humanitarian communications at USAID for eight impactful years, has surprisingly laid a unique foundation for her current endeavor. Her unexpected departure from USAID in July 2025, following a notice in March of the same year amid anticipated governmental changes, propelled her to swiftly establish First Light Coffee, with online sales commencing in the early summer of 2025. This transition wasn't just a career shift but a realization of a long-cherished dream. Leveraging her extensive network, she notes, “Since starting First Light, former colleagues have reached out with connections to coffee-growing communities, and I’m excited to build on that.” This autumn and winter, First Light Coffee is set to expand its reach through various pop-up events, aiming to introduce in-person coffee service and direct bean sales, thereby broadening its retail presence and diversifying its green coffee sourcing. A cornerstone of First Light Coffee's mission is its commitment to philanthropy, dedicating 5% of all profits to the World Central Kitchen, an organization renowned for providing meals in times of crisis. Partnering with Jessup, Maryland-based Orinoco Coffee & Tea, Leverich is intimately involved in selecting distinctive coffee varieties, crafting unique flavor profiles, and designing appealing labels. While Orinoco manages the sourcing and production, Leverich’s expertise shines in the areas of brand storytelling, operational logistics, and cultivating strategic partnerships. She passionately shares, “We’ve been growing through direct-to-consumer orders and are now building community partnerships and building out a mobile unit that will bring the brand to life in person.”

This narrative is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion. Annie Leverich's journey from the intricate world of international development to the aromatic realm of specialty coffee offers a compelling lesson in adaptability and the power of entrepreneurial spirit. It highlights how unexpected life changes can open doors to fulfilling new ventures that not only cater to a personal interest but also contribute positively to wider communities. Her story resonates as an embodiment of turning challenges into opportunities, illustrating that dedication, combined with a commitment to quality and social good, can brew success in the most delightful ways.