There is no doubt about it, when it comes to connecting communities using the beauty of the arts and the joy of food, there is none quite like the Artist’s Exchange and Character’s Café (with adjoining Theater 82), both located in Cranston’s historic Rolfe Square.. The Artist’s Exchange is a non-profit arts collaborative whose mission is to “create an atmosphere in which creativity, learning and discovery converge and individuality is celebrated.” Character’s Café, found just a short block away from the Exchange, is a local eatery that is a full-service, non-profit restaurant that is owned and operated by Gateways to Change, Inc. This longstanding agency has a singular mission, “to enhance the lives of adults with developmental disabilities by providing them with training in a creative environment.”

These two establishments work hand in hand to fulfill their shared missions. Together they bring the arts to a broader and more diverse audience and provide a cozy neighborhood restaurant where all are welcome. There is always something going on at either location ~ summer camps, Arts & Crafts, annual holiday parties and special events. There is also always something fresh at Character’s Café and Theater 82 from a creative menu to festivals, original theater productions and so much more.

This weekend is a perfect example of the activities going on between the Exchange and the Café. This Sunday, September 22nd, from 10:00am to 4:00pm, join the festivities as the Artists’ Exchange and Gateways to Change close down Rolfe Square between Auburn and Clarence Streets for a day of FUN! This 12th annual “Fall out of Summer Arts Festival” features live music, raffles, a marketplace of local artisans, art activities, installations, contests, food, beer, wine and so much more! This event is even pet friendly and free to the public.

Meanwhile, the café will be serving up its ever-popular Sunday brunch! This weekly brunch includes a showstopping buffet of the most delicious offerings from an omelet station with Chef Steve Hobin to Chocolate Peanut Butter Crepes to Crispy Three-cheese home fries to Swedish Meatballs (and more to indulge your cravings on!) Also available are a tantalizing lineup of specials including Breakfast Tacos, Crab Cake Benni’s, Chocolate Stuffed French Toast, and several exciting egg dishes. The brunch is served from 10am to 1pm every Sunday. Beer, wine, mimosas and other refreshing drinks are also sold.

Chefs Steve and Jonathan Helme are already putting together their new fall menu for the café as well ~ watch for heartier stews, soups and all the flavors of the season.

Character’s Café & Theater 82 are located at 82 Rolfe Square. For more information, call 401-490-9475. Hours are Tues. – Friday, 7am – 2pm, Saturday & Sunday, 7am – 2pm. (Closed on Mondays). To learn more about the Fall Out of Summer Arts Festival, visit the website www.artist-exchange.org or to see the café’s entire menu, visit www.characterscafe.org.